Cargo, Fumigation and Tackle Regulations

117 (1) If a self-unloading vessel that loads or unloads coal at a Canadian port does not have electrical cables and components situated in spaces adjacent to cargo spaces that are safe for use in hazardous zones, the vessel’s master shall ensure that

• (a) means are provided for positive isolations;

• (b) the electrical cables and components in those spaces have a minimum of Class II, Division 2, Group F rating, in accordance with Part I of the Canadian Electrical Code;

• (c) a mechanical ventilation system is operating in unloading tunnels and loopbelt tunnels and any other transfer equipment and, if an exhaust fan is part of the system, it is certified by its manufacturer as safe for use in an explosive atmosphere; and

• (d) the operational procedures for the mechanical ventilation system in an explosive atmosphere are documented and in place.

(2) Instead of ensuring compliance with the requirement in the COAL schedule to Appendix 1 to the BC Code that holds be surface-ventilated for the first 24 hours after departure from the loading port, the master of a self-unloading vessel that loads coal at a Canadian port before or during an inland voyage may ensure that the holds are ventilated by other methods that reduce methane concentration and that the spaces adjacent to the cargo spaces are ventilated before electrical power sources are activated.

(3) The master of a self-unloading vessel that loads or unloads coal at a Canadian port before, during or after an inland voyage need not ensure that supply-ventilation equipment for tunnels is safe for use in an explosive atmosphere.

(4) If the carbon monoxide level in a cargo space increases steadily or exceeds 50 ppm, the master of a self-unloading vessel that loads or unloads coal at a Canadian port before, during or after an inland voyage may meet the requirements of subsection (5) instead of

• (a) ensuring that the cargo space is completely closed down and all ventilation ceased;

• (b) seeking expert advice immediately; and

• (c) notifying the vessel’s owners.

(5) The requirements referred to in subsection (4) are the following:

• (a) to ensure that readings of the carbon monoxide level and the lower explosion limit are taken at least every 4 hours in the first 24 hours of sailing and after that at least

  • (i) once per day if the carbon monoxide levels are less than 50 ppm,

  • (ii) twice per day if the carbon monoxide levels are 50 ppm or more but less than 500 ppm, and

  • (iii) once every 4 hours if the carbon monoxide levels are 500 ppm or more; and

• (b) to notify the vessel’s owners and the Department of Transport Marine Safety Office nearest to the vessel if both the carbon monoxide level and the lower explosion limit are simultaneously increasing.