What type of protective equipment is recommended for ship cargo hold cleaning?

For bulk carrier ships, cargo hold cleaning is tied to financial success. This crucial step helps maintain an uninterrupted schedule through the passing of inspections, thus keeping turnaround times to a minimum.

To achieve a level of excellence, crews need to be diligent, thorough, and confident when cleaning. They can’t be worrying about their safety or dealing with injuries. Therefore they need to be properly outfitted with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

Since cargo hold cleaning involves the use of chemicals and high-powered sprayers, PPE for this type of work includes protective gloves, goggles and masks. Even when the chemicals are designed to be safe for crews, PPE is still recommended.

PPE recommendations for our products

RBM HoldBlock®: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid breathing mist and vapors. Always wear protective gloves, goggles and masks. Keep away from oxidizers, acids and metallic powders.

RBM HoldWash-HD is safe to use, it may cause skin or eye irritation with prolonged contact. As a precaution, wear protective gloves, goggles and a mask. Do not spray directly onto skin or eyes. Avoid prolonged breathing of mist.

RBM BilgeCoat: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid breathing mist and vapors. Always wear protective gloves, goggles and masks. Keep away from oxidizing and reducing agents, acids and metallic powders. 

In the event of an accidental exposure, take the following precautions: 

SKIN:  Wash exposed areas with water.

EYES:  Flush eyes with plenty of water for 20 mins.

INHALATION:  Remove crewmember to fresh air.

INGESTION:  Do not induce vomiting.Give crewmember a glass of water or milk.

Seek medical attention if allergic reaction occurs or symptoms persist