1GENERAL PROVISIONS

1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

1.1 OBJECTIVE

1.1.1 The objective of this code is to provide practical guidance on health and safety in shipboard work with a view to:

(a) preventing accidents, diseases and other harmful effects on the health of seafarers arising from employment on board ships at sea and in port;

(b) ensuring that the responsibility for health and safety is understood and remains a priority for all concerned with maritime transport, including governments, shipowners and seafarers; and

(c) promoting consultation and cooperation among government agencies, shipowner organisations and maritime unions in the improvement of health and safety on board ships.

1.1.2 The code also provides guidance in the implementation of the provisions of the Prevention of Occupational Accidents to Employees Convention, 1970 (No 134), and Recommendation, 1970 (No 142), as well as other relevant ILO Conventions and Recommendations.

1.2 APPLICATION

1.2.1 The code covers the health and safety of seafarers, contractors and other persons on board ships to which the Occupational Health and Safety (Maritime Industry) Act applies.

1.2.2 The provisions of this code should be considered as the basic minimum requirements

for protecting seafarers' health and safety.

1.3 GENERAL DEFINITIONS

1.3.1 For the purposes of this code the following terms have been defined as follows: accident: an incident that causes the death, serious injury or incapacity of a person; AMSA: Australian Maritime Safety Authority;

approved health and safety representatives training course: the Maritime Industry Health and Safety representative Distance Learning Course, as approved by the Seacare Authority, or any other such course as approved by that Authority;

Bulk Cargoes Code: Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes, as amended (published by lMO);

competent person: a person having the relevant training and skills and, if appropriate, qualifications, to perform particular tasks, e.g. an industrial chemist or an electrician. A ship's officer having the relevant training and skills may be considered a competent person;

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