Staying Safe on the Southern Ocean

General Shipboard Safety Rules

Always remember to let someone know where you will be at all times. Your disappearance for several hours can cause alarm if you don't let someone know your whereabouts. Letting someone know is especially important if you will be in an unfrequented area, for example, working in a lab van or taking a tour of the Engine Room.


Don't go out on deck alone at night or in rough weather. If something does happen, these conditions make it almost impossible to find someone who has fallen over the side.
Wear sensible clothing:

• Shoes with non-skid soles are recommended, especially on deck. Sandals of any kind are not safe.

• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock if you are working long hours outside. The levels of harmful UV radiation are much higher in Antarctica and at sea than elsewhere.

Be aware of watertight doors. These doors may swing from the ship's motion and can cause injury. Keep hands and fingers clear. And always be sure to secure all watertight doors by securely latching (dogging) them.

Ship Maneuvers

Whenever the ship is docking or casting off, all non-essential personnel are to stay clear of the Bridge, weather deck areas forward of the superstructure, and the aft working deck. When doing Zodiac Operations stay clear of the aft working deck as well unless you are part of the operation.

Safety Equipment
The GOULD and PALMER both have safety equipment such as emergency eye wash stations, spill control centers, and first-aid kits located around the labs. Life jackets and exposure suits are located in each cabin. Extra life jackets and exposure suits are located in the labs and other work areas.