Three Myanmar sailors died while working aboard a foreign cargo ship in Indonesian waters with the incident once again highlighting the deadly dangers posed by enclosed spaces at sea.
As reported, the deceased were identified as Thura Zaw, 38, Zaw Min Htet, 34, and Han Htoo Aung, 28. Members of the Myanmar seafarers’ community said the three men died from oxygen deprivation after entering an enclosed compartment on the vessel for inspection work.
According to the Free Funeral Service Society, the bodies were transported from Yangon International Airport to North Okkalapa General Hospital on 24 May.
Injury or death caused by oxygen deficiency remains one of the most common hazards in the maritime industry.
Confined spaces aboard ships can quickly become dangerous if not properly ventilated or monitored, posing serious risks to both workers and rescuers. Maritime safety experts stress that employers must prioritize atmospheric testing before entry, ensure proper ventilation, and provide comprehensive safety training to reduce the risks associated with confined spaces.
Workers are also required to follow strict entry procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and continuous monitoring of oxygen levels.
Understanding the dangers of oxygen deficiency and enrichment in enclosed spaces is considered critical to preventing further tragedies at sea. Between 2000 and 2024, at least 1,010 ship and shore workers lost their lives in enclosed spaces aboard vessels covered by the SOLAS Convention.