Harmful Substances and Effects

The effects of harmful substances can vary from mild irritability, e.g. pungent odor and slight eye irritation, to difficulty breathing and unconsciousness. The effects can also be permanent such as allergies, asthma, cancer and genetic (hereditary) damage. How serious the injury becomes depends, among other things, on;

Harmful substances can enter the body in different ways and attack various organs. Some substances, e.g. solvent, can be absorbed by the body both through the respiratory tract and skin. Most substances do not affect before they are absorbed into the bloodstream. It is only when they are spread in the body through the blood that they can affect sensitive organs and organ systems. Exceptions are such substances that have a local effect, e.g. substances that corrode or irritate.

Enclosed Spaces and Dangerous Gases

One of the factors that define an enclosed space is, as previously mentioned that it lacks ventilation. This means that otherwise relatively harmless organic materials such as pellets, wood, wood chips, fish, coal, and fruit during decomposition can form dangerous gases while oxygen is bound. Even when sheet metal corrodes, oxygen is bound, making rusting chain boxes and tanks almost completely oxygen-free.

Keep in mind that this also applies to stairwells and storage in connection with tanks and cargo holds. Both oxygen content and the presence of toxic and suffocating gases must be measured before entering. Personal protective equipment must be used and it can include respiratory protection so that you always breathe fresh air.

Thermosetting Plastics

Common to thermosetting plastics is that the components get their final structure by two or more components reacting with each other and curing to a final product with a three-dimensional mesh structure (cross-linked). Some thermosets can cause strong reactions, such as allergies, asthma, irritation of the eyes, and respiratory tract. Work with thermosets may only be led and carried out by a person who has specialised theoretical and practical training on risks and protective measures in such work. The person who is going to work with thermosets must also have undergone a special medical examination. Some common thermosets are epoxy, acrylate and polyurethane. Most thermosets are harmless once they have been cured. On the other hand, polyurethane contains isocyanates that can be released when heated and cause health problems when inhaled. Thermosets are used in two-component paints and adhesives, among other things. There must be clear instructions on how to protect yourself against thermosetting plastics and MSDS for the product in question at hand.

Keep in mind that the dust that occurs when old paint is removed can contain harmful substances, especially if heated.

Asbestos and Synthetic Inorganic Fibers

Asbestos used to be a common insulation material in ships. Nowadays, it is banned due to its harmful health effects, but it can remain in both older and newer ships. Synthetic inorganic fibers (fibers produced by artificial means) have primarily replaced asbestos as an insulating material. Among them are rock wool, glass wool, slag wool, and refractory ceramic fibers. But even synthetic inorganic fibers can cause health problems with irritation in the airways and the eyes. Prolonged or repeated exposure can lead to persistent conditions such as eczema, tumors, or connective tissue transformation in the lung tissue. Therefore, never start tearing in insulation material without first finding out what it contains.

Oil

Oil can contain carcinogens, although the amount of poison differs between different oils. Heavy oil contains significant amounts of hazardous substances; a new lubricating oil is relatively clean while marine diesel is somewhere in between. The body can absorb harmful substances via the skin and airways. It is essential to always wear well-adapted protective equipment during work that may involve contact with oil.

Tasks with Harmful Substances

When you work on board, there are many situations where you can come into contact with hazardous substances. Proper protective equipment must, of course, always be used, but situations can arise where the PPE has been forgotten or mismanaged. Then it is important to act if you find yourself involved in a task that can be dangerous. To be able to protect yourself, it is vital to know what symptoms and sensations you should be aware of.

Here are some examples of harmful substances that you may come in contact with, depending on your role onboard. 

Examples of health risks when painting:

Examples of health risks when working in the main engine, filter or separators:

Examples of health risks when working with dishes or cleaning:

The PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) on board must be adequate for the products used on your specific vessel, and the cargo carried. There must also be routines for when and how to use specific protective equipment. A rule of thumb is: the worst security is false security. Therefore, read the information about the product if you are unsure about what you are handling and how you should protect yourself.