Chemical Tankers Flashcards
What code is particularly relevant to chemical tankers?
IBC code (The International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk )
What does a material data sheet contain?
- Identification of a substance
- Composition and formula
- Principle hazards
- First aid measures
- Fire fighting measures
- Accidental release measures
- Handling and storage
- Exposure controls and personal protection
- Physical and chemical properties
- Stability and reactivity
- Toxicological info
- Ecological info
- Disposal considerations
- Transport info
What are the main steps to follow when a spillage of chemicals occurs?
- Initiate emergency stop procedures
- Sound the alarm
- Inform the master
- Ensure communication with shore personnel and inform them of the emergency
- Take any immediate steps necessary to secure the safety of the ship and crew
- Ensure that the ships FFA is ready for immediate use
- Check the material safety data sheet for any precautions
- Deploy SOPEP equipment to clear up the spillage
- Administer first aid
What are the main health hazards associated with chemical cargoes?
Corrosive effects on the skin
Acute toxic effects
Other health effects such as carcinogenicity and sensitisation
What is polymerisation?
It is a self reaction which generally results in the conversion of gas or liquid to viscous liquids or solids.
It can be a slow process which only degrades the product without causing hazards to the ship. Or, it could be a rapid exothermic reaction, releasing a lot of heat and gas.
Products which are susceptible to polymerisation are usually carried with an inhibitor added to prevent the onset of the reaction
What chemicals may react with water?
Isocyanates. They may produce toxic gasses and are consequently carried under dry and inert conditions.
What chemicals may react with air?
Ethers and aldehydes. They produce unstable oxygen products which could cause an explosion if allowed to build up.
What information must be on board the ship regarding the cargo to be carried?
Full description of the physical and chemical properties
Reactivity
Compatibility with other cargoes and materials
Action in case of spills
Action in case of personal contact
Firefighting procedures and fire extinguishing mediums
Procedures for cargo transfer
Procedures for tank cleaning
Procedures for gas freeing
Whether the cargo is stabilised
Correct technical name for the cargo
