8.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this regulation, the employer and master shall ensure that any opening, open hatchway or dangerous edge into, through, or over which a person may fall is fitted with secure guards or fencing of adequate design and construction, which shall be kept in a good state of repair.
(2) The requirements of paragraph (1) of this regulation do not apply:—
(a)where any opening affords a permanent means of transit about the ship, to the side of the opening used for access;
(b)where, and to the extent that, the person upon whom a duty is imposed is able to show that the work process being carried out or about to be carried out makes the provision of such guards or fencing not reasonably practicable.