🔍 Key Concepts

• Role of a certified marine chemist in shipyard and repair operations • OSHA and USCG requirements for entering enclosed or confined spaces that may contain flammable or toxic gases • Difference between ship’s personnel authority and independent shore-side specialists for gas-free certification

💭 Think About

• Which of these people has specific external certification and legal authority to declare a space "safe for workers" or "gas free" in a shipyard? • In shipyard practice, does the ship’s own crew normally issue the gas-free certificate, or is it done by an outside qualified person? • Which role is commonly called when hot work or entry into tanks is required during repairs alongside or in dry dock?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify who is authorized to issue a formal Gas-Free / Marine Chemist Certificate in a shipyard environment • Check standard safety procedures for hot work and tank entry during ship repair—who signs the gas-free certificate? • Confirm whether ship officers or class society surveyors typically have the legal authority to certify spaces as gas free for shipyard workers