USCG Issues Guidance For Vessel Boarding Safety

The U.S. Coast Guard has issued guidance to its personnel regarding vessel boarding safety when conducting boardings of large commercial vessels as part of the homeland security mission. The guidance cautions Coast Guard personnel about the need for safety briefings prior to any such boarding, the risks of explosive vapors, and the risks inherent in confined space entry. It notes that many Coast Guard personnel may not have received specific training concerning the risks related to this new mission. The guidance is a good first step toward minimizing the risks inherent in boardings of sophisticated commercial vessels by persons other than the regular crew. Further guidance is required, though, and will be issued shortly. Source: HK Law