China MSA runs inspection campaign on enclosed space safety

The China Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) has started a focused inspection campaign from January 15 to October 14, 2025, to enhance safety for personnel who access enclosed spaces aboard ships.

By January 2025, InterManager estimated that around 350 seafarers and third-party workers had died from asphyxiation in enclosed spaces onboard ships since 1996, with 43 accidents since 2022 accounting for 70 of these deaths. This campaign aims to mitigate risks and prevent accidents related to such operations. 

The campaign applies to all ships and waterborne facilities that contain enclosed spaces. These spaces are defined as having one or more of the following characteristics:

• Limited entry and exit points
• Insufficient ventilation
• Not intended for continuous human occupation

Inspection process:

A maximum of one special inspection will be conducted per ship during the campaign period. However, additional inspections may be required under specific circumstances:

1. If an accident or dangerous situation results from illegal entry into an enclosed space.
2. If significant deficiencies are found in the management of enclosed space access.
3. If a ship is reported for severe risks in enclosed space entry management.
4. If the MSA or Ministry of Transport mandates additional inspections.

All ships entering Chinese ports—regardless of nationality—are subject to this campaign. Ship operators must ensure that their crew is fully briefed on the campaign and that the ship’s safety management system adheres strictly to the relevant guidelines. Crews should also conduct internal self-inspections based on the prescribed checklist.

source : safety4sea