When are you going to need aids and equipment to perform a working task? How do you choose the most appropriate tool, and how do you use it in a correct manner?
You should use aids and equipment:
- When it would be too risky to do a job without them.
- When it is too much of a strain to do the job manually.
- When it would not be possible to do the job without them.
This manual refers to the following aids and equipment you can use aboard ships:
- Equipment - fixed workplaces: Adjustable height tables oven trolleys.
- Equipment - cleaning: Cleaning trolleys, vacuum cleaners, mops, kickers, stools, ladders.
- Lashing gear: Trailer trestles, lashing gear trolleys.
- Lifting gear, etc.: Tackle, strops, wires, jacks, lifting yokes.
- Trucks and internal transport equipment: Fork lift and pallet trucks (possibly self-propelled), trucks, catering trolleys (possibly height adjustable), cage trolleys.
Choice of aids and equipment
When you have to choose the equipment to use, take the following into account:
- Is it suitable for the job and can it be used in that particular working area?
- Is it easy to use with a good working posture?
- Are there any risks involved in its use?
- What does its maintenance require?
Use of equiptment
- Printed instructions in the working language should be available.
- Training in equipment use should be given, including:
- What jobs should it be used for?
- How to have the best working posture when using it
- Before using it, make sure it works properly. Any defects and deficiencies should be reported to the maintenance supervisor.

Senior Occupational Health Consultant
Anne L. Ries
+45 3311 1833
+45 2961 8860
I can help you with:
- Safety Organization
- Consultancy
- Physical working environment
- The program Health and Safety at Sea
- Legislation at sea