MSC.581(110)
Revised Recommendations
for Entering Enclosed
Spaces Aboard Ships
Ask an expertProtect Your Crew. Strengthen Compliance. Partner with Dräger.
The IMO has introduced MSC 581 (110) to significantly improve safety during entry into enclosed spaces on ships. These updated recommendations address the ongoing risks of oxygen‑deficient, toxic, and flammable atmospheres that continue to cause serious accidents at sea.
With MSC 581 (110), atmospheric testing becomes more rigorous and more precise than ever before. Oxygen levels must be at least 20.9%, and carbon dioxide must remain below 0.5% (5,000 ppm) before entry.
Crews must also verify that toxic and flammable gases are within strictly defined safe limits to ensure a hazard‑free environment.
The regulation requires every person entering an enclosed space to carry a calibrated personal gas detector, ensuring continuous monitoring throughout the entire operation.
These measures are designed to reduce fatalities, improve risk awareness, and support safer decision‑making across all vessel types.
The new requirements are clear:
- Oxygen must be at least 20.9%.
- CO₂ must stay below 0.5% (5,000 ppm).
- Flammable and toxic gases must remain within strict safe limits.
- Every crew member entering confined spaces must carry a calibrated personal gas detector
Dräger Gas Detection: Built for MSC 581 (110) Compliance
Dräger’s portable gas detectors—such as the Dräger X‑am series—are engineered to meet the full scope of the new MSC 581 (110) requirements.
Our technology continuously measures O₂, CO₂, flammable gases, and toxic gases, ensuring crews always have the reliable data the regulation demands.
- Accurate multi‑gas detection that aligns with all mandated atmospheric parameters.
- High‑performance sensors designed for demanding marine environments.
- Reliable, easy‑to‑calibrate detectors that support compliance and operational readiness.
- Continuous personal monitoring, exactly as required under MSC 581 (110).
Dräger X-am 5600
Featuring an ergonomic design and innovative infrared sensor technology, the Dräger X-am® 5600 is the smallest gas detection instrument for the measurement of up to 6 gases. Ideal for personal monitoring applications, this robust and water-tight detector provides accurate, reliable measurements of explosive, combustible and toxic gases and vapors as well as oxygen.
Read moreDräger X-am 8000
Clearance measurement was never this easy and convenient: the Dräger X-am® 8000 measures up to seven toxic as well as flammable gases, vapours and oxygen all at once — either in pump or diffusion mode. The X-am 8000 complies with MSC.581(110). Innovative signaling design and handy assistant functions ensure complete safety throughout the process.
Read moreRecommended products - Breathing Protection Equipment
Your safety. Our Mission
MSC 581 (110) is reshaping safety expectations across the maritime industry.
Dräger is ready with the tools, expertise, and technology to help you stay compliant and protect your people—today and tomorrow.
