895 Deck Barge Safety

Electrical Hazards

Static Electricity

Static electricity is an electrical charge that builds up on a surface when two materials come into contact and then separate. In barge cleaning operations, static electricity can be dangerous because it may cause sparks that could ignite flammable vapors or dust. Static electricity can be created in several ways during these operations. Below are common sources with examples:

• Friction of different metals: When metal tools or equipment made of different types of metal come into contact and rub against each other, static electricity can build up. For example, dragging an aluminum ladder across a steel deck can generate static.

• Transfer of liquids: When liquids such as fuel or chemicals are pumped into or out of a barge, the flow can create friction and static electricity. Using proper grounding and bonding during transfer is necessary to prevent sparks.
• Mechanical ventilation: Equipment like pneumatic air movers, even if non-sparking, can create static charges as air moves rapidly over surfaces. These devices must be grounded to reduce the risk of ignition.
• Vessel docking: The rubbing of the vessel against docks or fenders during docking can cause static buildup. For example, metal chains or ropes may slide across metal surfaces, generating static charges.
• Atmospheric conditions: Dry air, especially in cold weather, increases the chance of static electricity forming. Low humidity makes it easier for static charges to build and discharge.
• Movement of water around the vessel: Water sloshing against the hull or inside tanks can produce static, especially if the water is moving against different surfaces or materials.
• Clothing: Synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester can generate static when workers move. For instance, walking on a metal deck while wearing polyester pants can create a charge. Conductive shoes help reduce this risk by allowing the charge to safely travel to the ground.
• Conductive tools: Tools like shovels, scrapers, wrenches, and wire brushes can cause static if they are used in a way that produces friction. Scraping residue off metal surfaces is a common task that can generate static.
• High-pressure washing: Spraying water at high speed can produce static, especially when cleaning tanks or metal surfaces. The forceful movement of water through hoses and nozzles adds to the risk.

Workers must be trained to recognize sources of static electricity and follow safety procedures to reduce the risk of fire or explosion during barge cleaning operations.

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