This document discusses gangways and signage used on ships during shipbreaking operations. It describes gangways as the safe passage on and off vessels, including requirements for handrails, securing gangways to prevent separation from vessels, and ensuring strength and stability. The document notes that signage must be clearly worded in spoken languages, identify hazards, required PPE, medical facilities, and enforce safety. Gangway signage notifies workers of important safety information and emergency procedures.

1. SHIPBREAKING
Module 1: Introduction to
Shipbreaking
1.4 Gangways and Signs
Susan Harwood Grant Number SH-17820-08-60-F-23

2. Disclaimer
 This material was produced under grant
number SH-17820-08-60-F-23 from the
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Labor.
It does not necessarily reflect the views or
polices of the U.S. Department of Labor,
nor does mention of trade names,
commercial products, or organizations
imply endorsement by the U.S.
Government.
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3. Gangways are safe passage
on board the vessel and may
be your only safe passage in
case of an EMERGENCY!
3

4. Objectives
 Describe safety procedures for
gangways
 List various types of gangways and
entrances
 Recognize signage and meaning
4

5. 5

6. Gangways are your safe passage on
and off the vessel.
6
Figure 1 Gangway off vessel

7. The number of gangways are dependent on
the operations and access.
7
Figure 2 Port bow of vessel with gangway on starboard side

8. Practice emergency egress from the vessel.
8
Figure 3 Platform at the head of the gangway

9. Hand rails
Top hand rail of 33 inches and with a midrail
9
Figure 4 Gangway on bank made of steel

10. Rails can be constructed of wood, pipe, chain,
wire, or other equivalent materials.
10
Figure 5 Gangway view coming from the ship to bank

11. If there is a danger of personnel falling between
ship and dock, a net must be provided.
11
Figure 6 Long gangway and supporting roll off box to catch materials

12. Keep gangways clear of supporting bridles
or obstructions.
12
Figure 7 Signage at the entrance to the vessel

13. The gangway must be properly trimmed
to allow safe access.
13
Figure 8 Gangway showing trim from vessel to bank

14. Secure the gangway to the vessel to
prevent separating from the vessel.
14
Figure 9 Entrance to the vessel via gangway

15. The gangways must be of sufficient strength
to support personnel and equipment.
15
Figure 10 Life ring displayed in case of water emergencies

16. Inspect gangways prior to usage for damage
or unusual wear.
16
Figure 11 Safety personnel inspecting rails and walking surfaces

17. Portable stanchions or supporting rails must be secured
to prevent dislodgement by accident or movement.
17
Figure 12 Steel hand rails and grates

18. If the gangway is more than one foot from the ground,
apron, or dock, a walkway must be installed to bridge
the gap.
18
Figure 13 Platform on shore side to support and stabilize gangway

19. If a gangway is not feasible, then a straight
ladder must be provided.
19
Figure 14 Ladder secured between decks

20. Jacob’s ladder must meet the requirements
of 1918.23.
20
Figure 15 Jacob’s ladder onside of ship

21. 21
Types of Gangways or
Entrances

22. Ladder Stairwells
22
Figure 16 Stairways from dry dock to main deck of rig

23. Accommodation Ladder
23
Figure 17 Accommodation ladder from a freighter to dock

24. Jacobs Ladder
24
Figure 18 Jacob’s ladder on side of a freighter

25. 25

26. Must be clearly worded and legible in
languages that are spoken.
26
Figure 19 Signage in English and Spanish

27. Key Words
Danger, Warning, Caution
27
Figure 20 Signage on board the vessel near the gangway

28. Locations of first aid or medical facilities.
28
Figure 21 Marine Chemist Report

29. States hazards during operations.
29
Figure 22 Supervisor discussing the signage to personnel prior to boarding the vessel

30. Identifies what PPE is required.
30
Figure 23 Asbestos signage in a restricted area

31. Gangway signage enforces safety
31
Figure 24 Signage at entrance to gangway

32. Notification for emergencies.
32
Figure 25 Signage in English and Spanish

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34. Action Discussion
What information can you expect
to find on the gangway signage?
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35. References
 OSHA eTool www.osha.gov
 Wikipedia Encyclopedia http//:en.wikipedia.org
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36. 36
Worker safety is a priority.