BELFOR Elevates the Air Quality of a Major Cruise Ship
A leading cruise line operator faced escalating Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) complaints linked to its ventilation systems. Crew and passengers reported discomfort, and inspections revealed microbial growth, debris buildup, and corroded ductwork in critical areas like galleys and crew quarters.
BELFOR was commissioned to clean the extensive exhaust systems in multiple galley areas across the ship. This environment, with its constant food preparation and high humidity, presented unique IAQ challenges.
IAQ has emerged as a paramount concern across industries, but perhaps nowhere is it more critical than in maritime vessels where thousands of passengers and crew members share enclosed spaces.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), inadequate air quality can cause headaches, fatigue, respiratory diseases, and even long-term complications such as asthma.
BELFOR’s Methodical IAQ Restoration Approach
Understanding the complexities of IAQ restoration in marine environments, BELFOR designed a strategic action plan that ensured efficiency, safety, and compliance with all industry regulations.
Detailed Planning and Coordination: Prior to any work, BELFOR conducted thorough vessel coordination meetings with the ship’s engineering team. This included detailed risk assessments, method statement reviews, and briefings of work procedures to ship staff and crew. This ensured smooth execution and minimized disruption to ship operations.
Rigorous Safety Protocols: BELFOR adheres to the highest safety standards. Lock-out and tag-out procedures were implemented for all fans before any cleaning commenced. Property and equipment were protected, and all work was carried out in accordance with BELFOR’s internal safety protocols as well as site-specific Method Statements and Risk Assessments. The team’s experience and abilities were carefully considered, and potential emergencies were identified with arrangements put in place, such as isolating machinery and the HVAC system.
Comprehensive Cleaning and Restoration: The project involved the cleaning of multiple exhaust systems, including the removal of grilles, filters, and ducting. BELFOR’s technicians meticulously cleaned each component and reinstated the ductwork, fans, and galley canopies. Flexible canvas ducts were renewed as needed.
Addressing Unexpected Challenges: During the cleaning process, the BELFOR team encountered various issues, including fibreglass cloth, welding rods, PVC boards, metal cuttings/scraps, and oil-soaked wooden blocks in the ducts. In another area, they found corroded galvanized ducts due to steam. These findings were promptly highlighted to the ship’s Reefer Engineer and removed accordingly, demonstrating BELFOR’s adaptability and problem-solving skills.
Documentation and Reporting: Throughout the project, BELFOR documented their work with before-and-after photos, providing the cruise line with a clear record of the services provided. Debriefing and job completion sign-off forms were provided to the Reefer Engineer.
The BELFOR Difference
BELFOR’s experience in this cruise ship project proves our commitment to providing comprehensive IAQ solutions. Each system was methodically restored, tested, and returned to service with minimal disruption to vessel operations.
The comprehensive restoration project delivered multiple benefits:
- Enhanced air quality throughout the vessel
- Improved operational efficiency of ventilation systems
- Extended equipment lifespan through proper maintenance
- Compliance with maritime safety and health regulations
- Prevention of potential fire hazards through removal of unauthorized materials
Your Partner in Restoring Healthy Indoor Air Quality
BELFOR understands the complexities of IAQ and offers comprehensive solutions to ensure healthy and productive environments.
Contact BELFOR today to learn how we can help you create a healthy and safe environment.
