Marine Advisory: 03/2025 - China MSA inspection campaign on enclosed space safety

28 January 2025

Marine Advisory: 03/2025 Subject: China MSA inspection campaign on enclosed space safety Dear Shipowner/Operator/Master/Recognized Organization:

This Marine Advisory is to provide awareness and guidance on the China Maritime Safety Administration’s (CMSA) recent focused inspection campaign running from January 15 to October 14, 2025. This campaign seeks to enhance of safety for personnel who access “enclosed spaces” aboard ships.

Requirements

The campaign applies to all ships and waterborne facilities that contain “enclosed spaces.” These spaces are defined as having one or more of the following characteristics:

• Limited entry and exit points
• Insufficient ventilation
• Not intended for continuous human occupation

Background

A maximum of one special inspection will be conducted per ship during the campaign period. However, additional inspections may be required under specific circumstances:

1. If an accident or dangerous situation results from illegal entry into an enclosed space.
2. If significant deficiencies are found in the management of enclosed space access.
3. If a ship is reported for severe risks in enclosed space entry management.
4. If the CMSA or Ministry of Transport mandates additional inspections.

Recommendations

The special campaign action plan provides an inspection checklist with the following contents:

1. Are crew members responsible for enclosed space entry aware of the associated risks?
2. Are the measures in place to permit work for visitors and crew members for enclosed space entry?
3. Is there a list of identified enclosed spaces?
4. Are the enclosed spaces marked and “for authorized personnel only”?
5. Are the atmosphere testing devices regularly checked and calibrated?
6. Are the emergency rescue equipment for enclosed space entry in good condition?
7. Are the personnel familiar with the safe entry and risk assessment procedures for enclosed space?
8. Are the personnel familiar with the operation of safety protective equipment and devices?
9. Is the enclosed space entry and rescue drill in accordance with SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 19.3.3?
10. Is the SMS related to enclosed space operations effectively implemented on board?

All ships entering Chinese ports regardless of nationality are subject to this campaign. Ship operators must ensure that their crew is fully briefed on the campaign and that the ship’s safety management system adheres strictly to the relevant guidelines. Crews should also conduct internal self-inspections based on the prescribed checklist.

-1

Detailed guidance on “Entering Enclosed Spaces” is provided in the Administration’s Marine Notice SAF 003 Procedures for Entering Enclosed Spaces and Enclosed Space Entry and Rescue Drills

If you have any questions, please contact our Fleet Performance Department by Telephone +1-703-790-3434 or by email to prevention@liscr.com.

-2