Hazardous Materials/Equipment
OSHA (Federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration) regulations require that all chemicals brought on board are properly labeled and that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available and readily accessible.
The Hazardous Materials section of the Cruise Plan is to be completed and submitted as part of the cruise plan by the Chief Scientist to the Vessel Superintendent. All flammable, explosive, toxic, and corrosive materials, and substances at extreme temperatures (e.g., liquid nitrogen); as well as firearms, ammunition, and explosives to be brought on board must be detailed on this form.
There is no laboratory for chemical usage in the interior of the ship. Hazardous chemicals must be stored on the open rear deck and all work conducted with those chemicals must be performed on that deck area.
The Chief Scientist must assign a laboratory supervisor, who will brief all persons on board working with or coming in contact with hazardous materials, regarding the following- Applicable usage rules
- General physical and health hazards involved
- Appropriate personal protective equipment
- How to handle spills, accidents and injuries
- The location and interpretation of appropriate MSDS
The Chief Scientist must provide
- Appropriate spill control equipment.
- Equipment for personal protection while handling hazardous chemicals.
- MSDS for any hazardous material brought on board that are not currently on file with the Urraca.
See list of filed MSDS here.
For unlisted items do an Internet search for "material safety data sheet ... name of item".
All hazardous items approved by the Vessel Supervisor for use on board must be contained in proper packaging for use and transportation at sea under wet conditions.