Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173:body:0:p66
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 170841–173750

such substances.
The response to the spillage should be in accordance with the appropriate EmS Guide spillage schedule(s) for the dangerous good(s) involved in the incident.
In general, if there is a spillage, it should be washed overboard with copious quantities of water. However, certain dangerous goods react violently with water producing flammable and toxic vapours. Others will produce pollution if washed overboard. Disposal of dangerous goods overboard is a matter of judgement by the person in command, noting that the safety of seafarers has priority over pollution of the sea. If it is safe to do so, spillages and leakages of substances, articles and materials identified in the IMDG Code as 'marine pollutant' should be collected for safe disposal. Absorbent material should be used for liquids.
Spillages collected with absorbent material should be kept in plastic bags or other containers and stowed safely for disposal ashore. Collecting spillages with absorbent material under deck may not be fully effective, and precautions for entry into confined spaces should be observed.
A careful inspection of structural damage should be carried out after dealing with spillages of highly corrosive substances.
Control measures should be implemented promptly to render harmless any spillage of dangerous goods. Particular attention may be necessary if such substances are transported in refrigerated compartments where the spillage may be absorbed by insulating material.
If leaking dangerous goods or damaged packaging are discovered, work in the affected area must stop immediately and resumed only after the risks have been assessed and controlled.
In the event of leakage or spillage involving dangerous gas or fumes, a gas detector should be used before a space is declared to be safe. Gas masks should only be used for purposes of escape. The place where the leakage has occurred should be treated immediately with an appropriate neutralising substance.
PPE used in an incident involving dangerous goods may become contaminated and may need to be disposed of in secure containers or thoroughly decontaminated on board.

Fire

Preventing a fire from occurring is a very important part of the shipboard safety program. Before loading commences all fire detection systems should be tested. During loading, suitable fire-fighting appliances should be ready for use and all unauthorised seafarers should be excluded from the area.
Given the complexity of extinguishing a fire involving dangerous goods, it is essential that the guidelines in the EmS Guide are incorporated into the ship's training regime so that seafarers are able to respond to a fire in a timely and effective manner.
Water is generally suitable as a fire-fighting medium for most dangerous goods at sea. However, detailed guidance should be obtained from the relevant schedules contained in the EmS Guide.
For certain substances