PART 3HATCHES
Hatches16
1
Every employer and any person in carrying out the obligations contained in this regulation shall comply with the principles and guidance in the Code.
2
The employer shall ensure that any hatch covering used on a ship is of sound construction and material, of adequate strength for the purpose for which it is used, free from patent defect and properly maintained.
3
The employer shall ensure that—
a
a hatch covering is not used unless it can be removed and replaced, whether manually or with mechanical power, without endangering any person, and
b
information showing the correct replacement position is clearly marked, except in so far as hatch coverings are interchangeable or incapable of being incorrectly replaced.
4
The employer shall ensure that a hatch is not used unless the hatch covering has been completely removed, or if not completely removed, is properly secure.
5
Except in the event of an emergency endangering health or safety, no person shall operate a hatch covering which is power-operated or a ship's ramp or a retractable car-deck unless authorised to do so by a responsible ship's officer.