Close Hatches Sign

Close Hatches Sign – ISO 7010 Mandatory Symbol MS0029

The Close Hatches sign is a mandatory action pictogram used at cargo hatches, watertight doors, and weathertight openings aboard ships to instruct crew to close hatches securely after passing through or completing cargo operations. Rendered in the internationally recognised ISO 7010 blue circle with a white photoluminescent pictogram of a hand securing a hatch dog, this sign gives an unmistakable, language-independent instruction that is fundamental to maintaining a vessel’s watertight integrity.

Onboard vessels, an open or improperly secured hatch compromises watertight integrity and can allow water ingress during heavy weather, flooding, or an unexpected list. Crew who fail to close hatches securely after cargo operations, maintenance access, or routine transit create a serious stability and flooding risk for the entire vessel. Positioning this sign at every hatch and weathertight opening reinforces this fundamental safety requirement as a matter of routine.

Why Closing Hatches Matters

Watertight and weathertight integrity is one of the most fundamental safety principles in ship design and operation, and a single improperly secured hatch can undermine it entirely. Failing to close hatches after use has contributed to serious flooding incidents and, in extreme cases, vessel loss. A clearly displayed mandatory sign at every relevant hatch removes reliance on memory alone and gives every crew member an unmistakable, universally recognised reminder to secure the opening before moving on.

Compliance and Certification

This sign is manufactured to the ISO 7010 international graphical symbol standard, ensuring the pictogram is instantly recognisable to seafarers regardless of nationality or first language. Watertight integrity signage of this kind supports compliance with the ISM Code’s requirements for documented safe working procedures, and complements the broader shipboard safety and stability regime established under SOLAS Chapter II-2. Fitting compliant, durable signage at every relevant hatch and weathertight opening helps demonstrate a proactive safety culture during flag state and port state control inspections.

Installation Recommendations

Mount the Close Hatches sign at cargo hatch coamings, weathertight door frames, and other openings that must be secured after use throughout the vessel. Fix the sign at eye level using stainless steel screws, rivets, or a suitable marine-grade adhesive so it withstands vibration, humidity, and saltwater exposure. In exterior and high-exposure areas, choose the photoluminescent variant so the pictogram remains visible if primary lighting fails, and inspect signage periodically as part of routine safety rounds to confirm it stays legible and securely fixed.

• Manufactured to ISO 7010 mandatory pictogram standard (blue circle, photoluminescent symbol)
• Rigid or self-adhesive 425 x 425mm panel to suit bulkhead or equipment mounting
• UV-stable and saltwater-resistant construction for reliable long-term marine performance
• Photoluminescent charge provides visibility during power loss or low-light conditions
• Multiple fixing options available including screw-fix, rivet, and adhesive backing

Order the Close Hatches Sign (SKU: MS0029) today to reinforce essential watertight integrity practice across your vessel’s cargo and weather deck areas.

For related shipboard safety requirements, browse our Hazard Signs and Fire Fighting Signs categories to complete your vessel’s compliant signage package.