International statistics show that a significant number of fatal incidents occur specifically during entry into enclosed spaces.

According to data collected by maritime organisations and insurance companies, more than 1,000 fatalities worldwide were recorded between 2000 and 2024 in connection with incidents in enclosed spaces. On average, this represents around 40 deaths per year.

More than 50% of fatalities are not caused by falls or mechanical injuries, but by a hazardous atmosphere, including:

• oxygen deficiency
• toxic gases
• inert gases

These findings are repeatedly confirmed in reports and studies by organisations such as InterManager, ICHCA, P&I Clubs, as well as in publications from specialised maritime safety platforms, including Safety4Sea.

A Constantly Increased Risk

The primary threat is the atmosphere, which can change without any visible warning signs. Studies of fatal incidents in enclosed spaces show that oxygen deficiency remains the leading cause of death, particularly in areas such as:

• cargo holds and tanks

Even short-term exposure to an oxygen-deficient environment can lead to:

• dizziness and disorientation
• loss of consciousness within minutes

In many cases, a person does not realise the danger in time and loses the ability to act independently or leave the space safely. Despite decades of regulations, training, and awareness campaigns, entry into enclosed spaces remains one of the highest-risk operations on board a vessel.

Procedures Exist for a Reason

International requirements and industry guidance - including SOLAS, ISGOTT, and company Safety Management Systems  clearly require:

• conducting a formal risk assessment
• ventilating the space
• testing the atmosphere before and during entry
• appointing responsible personnel
• maintaining continuous supervision of personnel inside

However, accident investigations show that fatal incidents rarely occur due to the absence of procedures. They occur when procedures are:

• treated as a formality
• followed “for compliance only”
• not fully understood by the personnel involved

In many fatal cases, it was identified that:

• gas testing was incomplete or carried out incorrectly
• responsibilities between participants were unclear

Knowing the Procedure ≠ Understanding It

Many seafarers are confident that they are familiar with enclosed space entry procedures.

However, during inspections, audits, or even worse - real accidents, it becomes clear that key principles are often misunderstood, including:

• who may act as the Responsible Person
• when an Attendant is mandatory
• the difference between a bump test and full calibration of a gas detector

Statistics also show that a significant proportion of fatalities are secondary victims - crew members who attempt to rescue colleagues without proper training or equipment.

Test Your Knowledge in Practice

GYRO Team has prepared the “Enclosed Space Entry - Safety & Procedures” test, focused on practical aspects and common mistakes most frequently identified in incident investigation reports.

https://app.gyro.team/tests/enclosed-space-entry-safety-procedures-80d2b91a

Test yourself to avoid a critical situation.
It is far better to fail a test and correct your mistakes than to be responsible for the loss of a human life.

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