Merchant Shipping Act, 1951 (Act No. 57 of 1951)RegulationsMaritime Occupational Safety Regulations, 1994Chapter II : Safety provisions for staff on board ship, appliances and equipment16. Hatch coverings |
| (1) | The employer shall ensure— |
| (a) | that any hatch covering used on a vessel is of sound construction and material, of adequate strength for the purpose for which it is used, free from patent defect and properly maintained; |
| (b) | that a hatch covering— |
| (i) | is not used unless it can be removed and replaced, whether manually or with mechanical power, without endangering any person, and |
| (ii) | is clearly marked, showing the correct replacement position, except in so far as hatch coverings are interchangeable or incapable of being incorrectly replaced; |
| (c) | that a hatch is not used unless the hatch covering has been completely removed or, if not completely removed, properly secured. |
| (2) | Except in the event of an emergency, no person shall operate a hatch covering which is power-operated or a vessel's ramp or a retractable car-deck unless authorised to do so by the officer of the watch. |