Charting a course for maritime safety and training excellence

The Oxygen Depletion Research project at the City of Glasgow College delves into the complex dynamics of oxygen levels on ships, particularly in enclosed spaces. Maritime safety has long been a paramount concern, with the dangers of entering enclosed spaces on-board ships being known in the shipping community for a number of years. Enclosed spaces are a well-known location for loss of life and whilst attention is drawn to the dangers of enclosed spaces in every safety course, deaths still occur with chilling regularity, as an oxygen depleted atmosphere “looks normal” as there is nothing readily obvious to cause alarm regarding the dangers within the enclosed space.

As one of the leading maritime colleges in the UK, City of Glasgow College proactively led a programme of work to reduce the loss of life, as a result of oxygen depletion in enclosed spaces. Led by a team of seasoned researchers and experts in maritime safety, the research created a series of experiments that would raise awareness in at least three areas; sealed containers, open vented containers and chain lockers.

Early results suggested the depletion takes place at a faster rate than previously thought. The lack of empirical research in this area gives the project the potential to have a profound global impact on maritime safety and education. The preliminary findings of the research have unveiled crucial insights that promise to reshape safety protocols within the maritime industry. The research team discovered that certain common scenarios, such as inadequate ventilation in confined spaces or improper storage of certain cargoes, could lead to accelerated oxygen depletion.

Such hazards of oxygen depletion do not stop at the immediate enclosed cargo spaces, but similar risks can exist when entering adjacent spaces. Furthermore, it is clear from the experiment results that once the hatch covers or tank lids are closed, the oxygen contained within the space is immediately being absorbed by the cargo or due to rusting within a space, and that enclosed spaces must at all times be treated as unsafe.

With an increasing focus on creating sustainable and secure learning environments, City of Glasgow College have taken a pioneering step towards ensuring the safety of seafarers. The methodology wanted to understand the factors contributing to oxygen depletion, and more importantly devise effective mitigation strategies, including training and skills development.

The implications of the Oxygen Depletion Research project extend far beyond theoretical insights. The maritime industry, known for its commitment to safety and efficiency, stands to benefit significantly from the practical applications of this research. Armed with the insights gained from the research project, City of Glasgow College swiftly implemented targeted solutions to address the identified issues. This proactive approach includes educating the maritime community about the importance of maintaining optimal oxygen levels in enclosed spaces.

In a progressive move towards advancing maritime safety, City of Glasgow College has collaborated with the Maritime Skills Alliance (MSA) to develop a Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) recognised online course. This course plays a pivotal role in upskilling seafarers, empowering them with the knowledge and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of oxygen depletion in enclosed spaces, ultimately contributing to the preservation of lives at sea.

The MNTB recognised online course is more than an educational programme; it is a proactive step towards enhancing maritime safety. The course covers a range of topics essential for maritime professionals, including the science behind oxygen depletion, effective monitoring techniques, and emergency response protocols. By leveraging cutting-edge educational technology, the course provides an interactive, immersive, and engaging learning experience, ensuring that seafarers acquire the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in real-world scenarios.