QUESTION 10.3.3

Safe machinery-space entry during UMS

Oil, Chemical, LPG, LNGInterview - Engineer Officer, Bridge, Engine Room, Engine Control Room

What is being checked

The inspector is checking whether entry into an unattended machinery space is communicated, monitored and protected so an injured or incapacitated person is detected promptly.

Ready onboard

0/6 complete

NOTIFICATIONThe entrant informs the bridge, duty engineer or other designated station before entry and on exit.DEAD-MAN ALARMWhere fitted, the system is activated, its timer is suitable and the alarm route is tested.SOLO WORKCompany limitations distinguish a round from work that requires a second person or permit.COMMUNICATIONA reliable portable or fixed communication method is carried or immediately available.HAZARDSNoise, heat, moving machinery, leaks, poor lighting and remote spaces are considered before entry.RESPONSEBridge and engineering personnel know what to do when the timer expires or communication is lost.

Practice questions

Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.

1What do you do before entering during UMS?

Notify the designated station, state the purpose and route, activate the dead-man system if fitted and carry the required communication.

2When is solo entry prohibited?

For tasks or conditions requiring a permit, isolation, enclosed-space control, work aloft, high-risk maintenance or company-mandated assistance.

3What happens when the dead-man timer expires?

The alarm reaches the approved attended location and triggers immediate communication and response to locate the entrant.

4How is exit confirmed?

Reset the device correctly and report clear of the space so the watch does not assume someone remains inside.

5What if the dead-man system is defective?

Stop routine solo entry, report the defect and apply the approved two-person or continuous-communication alternative until repaired.

Where an observation may arise

NO NOTIFICATION

A person enters the UMS machinery space without informing an attended station.

DEVICE UNUSED

The dead-man system is available but not activated.

ALARM PATH

Timer expiry does not reach the required responder.

HIGH-RISK SOLO WORK

Maintenance is undertaken alone contrary to the risk control.

EXIT NOT REPORTED

The entrant leaves without closing the monitoring loop.

Master's practical note

Test the response chain, not only the timer button. The protection fails if the alarm sounds but nobody knows who entered, where they went or who must respond.

Equipment boundary and references

Equipment boundary: A dead-man alarm does not replace enclosed-space entry, permit-to-work, isolation or two-person controls. Apply the stricter requirement for the task.

References

OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 2, Version 1.0, Question 10.3.3
SOLAS Chapter II-1 Part E
ISM Code sections 7 and 8
ICS Engine Room Procedures Guide

Last reviewed: 2026-09-10