Significance and Use
This guide does not set specific performance or technical criteria, but recommends that companies set policies and objectives and develop procedures for managing their health and safety program. Companies should consider their unique organization, culture, and hazards on their vessels and the possible effects of their operations. The elements are intentionally flexible and may be tailored to address any size of operation or any vessel type. Note that although the standard is aimed at the shipboard occupational health and safety program, some of the elements address activities and commitments that must be completed or made by shore side personnel (for example, executive management commitment and provision of adequate resources). Key to the effectiveness of the program is the implementation of each element within an interconnected system.
Scope
1.1 This guide covers the basic elements of a Shipboard Occupational Health and Safety Program (SOHSP). These elements are applicable to all vessel types including but not limited to tank vessels, dry bulk carriers, passenger vessels, roll-on roll-off vessels, ore bulk oilers, offshore supply vessels, tugboats, towboats, and barges. The elements described are fundamental pieces of a systematic occupational safety and health program and may be used by company line managers, health and safety personnel or consultants who are implementing, improving, or auditing the effectiveness of a shipboard health and safety program.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
