• Identify common fire and explosion hazards in hazardous areas on ships.

• Distinguish between intrinsically safe and non-intrinsically safe equipment, and their appropriate use.

• Understand how static electricity can trigger explosions, and how to control or prevent it.

• Apply correct procedures for earthing and bonding to minimize ignition risks.

• Use gas analyzers and measuring instruments safely and effectively.

• Understand the function and critical role of Emergency Shutdown Systems (ESD).

• Conduct or support routine inspection and maintenance of explosion-protected (Ex) equipment.

• Interpret and implement guidelines related to dust hazards and their mitigation.

• Improve hazard awareness and enhance personal safety accountability in hazardous zones.

1. Deck and engine officers on oil, gas, and chemical tankers

2. Electricians and ETOs (Electrical Technical Officers)

3. Safety Officers and Environmental Officers

4. Marine engineers and technical superintendents

5. Onshore personnel involved in HSE or maintenance planning

6. New joiners assigned to hazardous zones or with limited Ex exposure

1. Common Hazards, Hazardous Areas and Guidelines

• Introduction to hazardous zones on ships (Zone 0, 1, 2)

• Sources of fire/explosion in shipboard operations

• Regulatory guidelines (SOLAS, ISGOTT, IECEx)

• Hazardous area classification and marking systems

• Basic behavior and awareness in Ex environments

2. Dust – Its Hazards and Guidelines

• How dust can lead to fires or explosions (combustible dust risk)

• Examples in maritime and offshore environments

• Dust cloud formation and ignition risk

• Ventilation and housekeeping standards

• Relevant IMO/industry safety practices

3. Non-Intrinsically Safe Equipment

• Understanding the dangers of using standard (non-Ex) equipment

• Types of equipment not permitted in hazardous areas

• Risks: heat generation, spark potential, open circuit faults

• Case studies of past incidents caused by inappropriate equipment use

4. Intrinsically Safe Equipment

• What makes equipment “intrinsically safe”

• Standards and certifications (IECEx, ATEX Zone classification)

• Examples: radios, sensors, handheld tools

• Maintenance and use in explosive environments

• Limitations and user responsibilities

5. Static Electricity and Its Control

• How static electricity is generated onboard

• Conditions for static discharge and ignition

• Examples: tank cleaning, cargo transfer, fuel loading

• Control measures: inerting, humidity control, proper materials

6. Earthing and Bonding

• Purpose of earthing and bonding in hazardous areas

• Principles of safe electrical connection to prevent discharge

• Differences between earthing vs. bonding

• Inspection and continuity testing procedures

• Typical bonding practices during cargo operations

7. Gas Analyzers and Measuring Instruments

• Types of gas detection equipment (fixed and portable)

• Operation and calibration of gas analyzers

• Oxygen, hydrocarbon, H₂S detection

• Correct usage in pre-entry, hot work, enclosed space entry

• Limitations and sensor maintenance

8. Emergency Shutdown System (ESD)

• Role of ESD in preventing escalation during an emergency

• Components and activation logic

• Integration with cargo and machinery systems

• Manual and automatic triggers

• Crew response and drills involving ESD

9. Inspection and Maintenance of Ex Equipment

• Importance of regular inspections and preventive maintenance

• Visual and close inspection techniques

• Common failure points (seals, enclosures, corrosion)

• Documentation and maintenance records

• Working with certified personnel and verifying compliance