Working at a height above 1, 8 meters approved in new rules

On January 1, 2021, the new «Rules on Labor Protection on sea vessels and inland water transport vessels» entered into force. As the chairman of the Seafarers Union of Russia, Yury Sukhorukov, noted, it contains most of comments proposed by the SUR. «In our opinion, they will improve the working conditions of crewmembers, » he said.

So, from the specified date, seafarers are subject to cross-sectorial rules on labor protection, which regulate the safe work of seafarers on certain types of work. In particular, this involves such regulations as «Rules on labor protection in the operation of electrical installations», «Rules on labor protection when performing painting works», «Rules on labor protection when carrying out diving operations», «Rules on labor protection when working in tight and confined spaces».

However, not all the objections of the SUR were reflected in the new version of the document.

«Now the concept of work at heights includes ship work performed at a height above 1, 8 meters, and not 1, 3 meters, as was established in the previous version of the document. This can negatively affect the safety of crewmembers, as well as lead to an increase in occupational injuries», - explained Yury Sukhorukov.

He added that the Ministry of Labor has already developed guidelines that will help companies prepare a set of local regulations. The document will be comprised of requirements for labor protection with account taken of the specifics of companies, as well as guidance on assessing risks, training and testing of knowledge on occupational workers.

«This means that in accordance with the rules, shipowners must develop, in coordination with the trade union, new instructions on labor protection for crewmembers, then approve it and deliver them to their fleet. In addition, to organize training and special knowledge assessment on labor protection of members of the ship's crew. The requirements set out in the document are binding on shipping companies», - said the chairman of the SUR

We add that the new version of rules was approved by the order № 886Н Ministry of labor of Russia on 11 December 2020 and registered by the Ministry of Justice on the 30 December 2020.

The rules on labor protection on sea vessels and inland water transport vessels will be in effect until December 31, 2025.