Oxygen depletion in enclosed spaces

The aim of this research project was to determine the rate at which oxygen depletes in enclosed spaces. Cargo holds, chain locker and double bottom tanks are only some of the enclosed spaces found on a ship. The project was conducted using oxygen depletion experiments on scrap metal in sealed and open vented containers. In addition, the speed of oxygen depletion in a replicated chain locker is investigated. It is necessary to highlight the speed of oxygen depletion in cargo hold situations and other enclosed spaces and prevent loss of life in these dangerous spaces.In the oxygen-depleted atmosphere within an enclosed space, there is no sensory indication to cause alarm regarding the dangers within that space. Therefore the results of the experiments must be seen as a significant step in raising awareness of the dangers within an enclosed space, in improving health and safety standards and preventing loss of lives at sea.