Critical Cleaning Tasks Your Team Must Master During Dry Dock

September 12, 2024

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Critical Cleaning Tasks Your Team Must Master During Dry Dock

Maintaining a cruise ship is just as important as maintaining a vehicle to ensure smooth operation, and a key part of that process is dry dock maintenance. Dry dock is when a cruise ship is taken out of the water for essential maintenance tasks that can’t be performed while it’s in service.

The primary goal of dry dock is to clean, inspect, and repair components that are usually underwater, such as the propeller blades, thrusters, and stabilizers, as well as to check mechanical systems like navigation software. During this time, the crew continues working and living on board.

The duration of dry dock varies depending on the scope of the work. While it typically lasts about 10 days, more extensive repairs can extend it to several weeks or even months.

Dry dock maintenance is mandatory under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), a treaty established after the Titanic disaster in 1914 to ensure the safety of maritime operations.

In this article, we’ll focus specifically on the interior cleaning and maintenance tasks during dry dock and how your janitorial team can enhance the ship’s appearance while streamlining the cleaning process.

Let’s dive in.

Dry Dock Cleaning Process

Dry dock periods are crucial for keeping your ship in peak operational condition. However, the efficiency of these operations heavily depends on how well your team manages a variety of cleaning and maintenance tasks within a compressed timeframe.

While dry dock presents unique challenges—such as limited time, space, and the need to work around ongoing repairs—proper preparation and a strategic approach can ensure your team meets these demands with ease. By focusing on critical tasks and planning ahead, you can streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays.

Here are some essential cleaning tasks your team should prioritize during dry dock:

Proactive Inventory Preparation
Safety Protocol Prioritization
Sensitive Area Protection
Floor Care and Surface Refinishing
Restroom and Galley Deep Cleaning
Engine Room Upkeep

1. Proactive Inventory Preparation

One of the most important steps in ensuring a smooth dry dock is preparing your inventory well in advance.

To avoid any last-minute shortages or delays, it’s essential to secure and organize all necessary cleaning supplies and equipment 4-6 weeks prior to the start of dry dock. This includes cleaning agents, safety gear, protective materials, and any specialty items needed for unique areas of the ship.

Having everything readily available ensures that your team can hit the ground running and focus on the tasks at hand, rather than scrambling to find materials during a critical moment.

Whether it’s cleaning agents, safety equipment, or protective materials, organizing your inventory ahead of time helps your team stay efficient and focused.

Foodservice Supplies

During dry dock, when dishwashers and other kitchen equipment are offline, it’s crucial to provide your crew with disposable yet eco-friendly alternatives. Stocking up on sustainable paper products ensures that your team can continue food service operations without compromising your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Recommended Foodservice Products:

By choosing sustainable paper and natural-substrate materials, you make disposal easier while aligning with the growing demand for greener alternatives during dry dock.

Commercial Cleaning Supplies

Sustainability plays a significant role in modern cruise operations, and this extends to cleaning practices. Cruise lines are increasingly adopting eco-friendly measures to reduce plastic waste, optimize fuel use, and minimize their environmental impact. During dry dock, it’s important to use cleaning solutions that meet high sustainability standards while maintaining efficacy.

Opt for laundry detergents and cleaning agents that come in appropriately sized packaging to prevent overuse. Prioritize products that are safe for the environment and gentle on your ship’s systems, yet tough on dirt and grime.

Recommended Cleaning Products:

Using eco-friendly products ensures that your team not only maintains compliance with environmental regulations but also upholds a commitment to cleaner, safer, and greener operations during dry dock.

2. Safety Protocol Prioritization

Safety is always a top priority, especially in the high-intensity environment of dry dock, where various hazards can pose significant risks to your team. To mitigate these risks, it’s essential to ensure that your crew has access to the right personal protective equipment (PPE), safety data sheets (SDS), and thorough training on safe work practices. By implementing strong safety protocols and providing the necessary resources, you protect your team and maintain efficiency and productivity throughout the dry dock process.

The Importance of PPE

PPE serves as the frontline defense against hazardous substances and conditions that your crew may encounter during dry dock operations. Cruise ships often contain dangerous materials like fuel, chemicals, asbestos, and cleaning agents that can harm workers through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Slips, trips, and falls are also common risks in dry dock due to wet or uneven surfaces.

By equipping your team with proper PPE, you significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Common PPE items include:

Disposable gloves: Protects hands from direct contact with harmful chemicals, debris, and contaminants.
Disposable masks or eusable respirators & additional cartridge refills: Essential for protecting the respiratory system from harmful vapors, dust, and airborne particles, especially in confined or poorly ventilated areas.
Shoe protectors: Prevents the tracking of hazardous substances across sensitive areas and reduces the risk of slipping on wet or slick surfaces.

SDS Documentation and Hazard Awareness

In addition to PPE, having the right Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals and materials used during dry dock is critical. SDS provides vital information on the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances, as well as first aid measures in case of exposure. Ensure that your team is familiar with these sheets and knows where to access them in case of an emergency.

Every team member should be trained to recognize and understand the hazards associated with specific materials. This awareness is particularly important when dealing with toxic substances, like asbestos, which may be present in older ships. Proper identification and handling of these materials, in conjunction with appropriate PPE, are essential for minimizing risks.

Training Protocols and Safe Work Practices

Even with the right PPE and safety documentation, accidents can still occur if workers are not properly trained. Comprehensive training protocols should be in place before dry dock begins to ensure every team member is knowledgeable about safe work practices. This includes training on:

Proper use of PPE: Ensure workers know how to correctly wear, adjust, and maintain their protective gear, including when and how to replace consumable items like respirator cartridges or disposable gloves.

Hazard recognition: Train staff to identify potential risks, such as chemical spills, unsteady surfaces, or poorly ventilated spaces, and to take immediate action to reduce these dangers.
Emergency procedures: Establish clear protocols for emergencies, including chemical exposure, fires, or injuries. Workers should know how to respond quickly and effectively, including how to administer first aid and notify supervisors.

Ensuring Compliance and Accountability

To maintain high safety standards, regular safety checks and compliance audits should be conducted throughout the dry dock process. Supervisors should monitor PPE use, review SDS documentation, and evaluate whether workers are adhering to training protocols. Implementing a culture of accountability ensures that safety is always at the forefront of your team’s priorities.

By integrating PPE, SDS awareness, and comprehensive training into your dry dock safety protocols, you’ll protect your crew from the inherent risks of the job while ensuring that the work environment remains efficient and productive. In the fast-paced, hazardous conditions of dry dock, preparation and vigilance are key to maintaining a safe and smooth operation.

3. Sensitive Area Protection

Protecting sensitive areas of the ship during dry dock is critical to preventing unnecessary damage, particularly to carpets, upholstery, and furniture. These surfaces are often exposed to dust, debris, and potential damage from maintenance activities, and safeguarding them requires strategic planning and proper tools. One of the best ways to protect these areas is by using polymask—a durable, adhesive film designed to shield vulnerable surfaces during cleaning and repairs.

Why Use Polymask?

Polymask serves as a barrier that prevents dirt, moisture, and physical damage from affecting delicate surfaces during dry dock. Carpets, for example, are prone to staining or wear from foot traffic, spills, and debris, while furniture and upholstery can accumulate dust and suffer from accidental bumps or scrapes. By applying polymask, you extend the lifespan of these materials and reduce the need for costly post-maintenance cleanups or replacements.

Best Practices for Application

Before applying polymask, it’s important to thoroughly clean the surface to ensure optimal adhesion. Surfaces should be dry and free of dirt, oil, or other contaminants that could compromise the film’s effectiveness. Additionally, temperature plays a significant role in how well polymask adheres. The substrate temperature should ideally be between 60°F and 90°F—extreme heat or moisture can weaken the adhesive, causing it to peel prematurely or fail to protect the surface.

When applying polymask, make sure your team follows these steps:

Prepare the surface – Ensure the area is dry and clean, as any residual dirt can cause the film to trap particles underneath, reducing its effectiveness.
Smooth application – Apply the polymask with a smooth, even motion to avoid wrinkles or air bubbles that can compromise protection.
Edge protection – Pay special attention to the edges and seams of the protective film, as improper sealing here can allow dust or debris to seep through.

Training and Removal

Proper training is essential to ensure your team applies and removes the polymask correctly. If applied improperly, the film may be difficult to remove, leaving behind residue or failing to protect as intended. Ensure your team understands the proper techniques for both applying and removing the film.

When it’s time to remove the polymask, it should be done carefully to avoid pulling fibers or damaging the underlying surface. Start by peeling from one edge and pulling in a slow, smooth motion to prevent any tearing or stretching.

Additional Considerations

Consider adding extra layers of protection for high-traffic areas or spaces with more sensitive materials. For example, thicker polymask films or additional padding may be used for extra reinforcement in areas prone to heavy foot traffic or frequent maintenance work.

By following these best practices, your team can effectively protect sensitive areas of the ship and prevent costly damage, ensuring that once dry dock is completed, the ship is restored to pristine condition with minimal need for post-dock cleaning or repairs.

4. Floor Care and Surface Refinishing

Dry dock is the perfect opportunity to focus on deep cleaning and refinishing all flooring surfaces throughout the ship. High-traffic areas, such as lobbies, dining rooms, hallways, and lounges, experience constant wear and tear, and dry dock allows your team to restore these areas to like-new condition. Proper floor care not only improves the ship’s appearance but also extends the life of the flooring materials, saving costs on repairs or replacements in the long run.

Key Tasks for Hard Floor Care and Surface Refinishing

Stripping and Waxing Hard Floors Over time, hard floors like vinyl, tile, or stone can become dull and scratched due to constant foot traffic. Stripping and waxing these surfaces during dry dock will restore their shine and add a protective layer.
- Stripping: Use a floor stripping solution to remove old wax or finish from the surface, ensuring a clean base.
- Waxing: Apply multiple coats of wax or finish to create a durable, shiny protective layer. Allow proper drying time between each coat to ensure longevity.

Polishing Stone or Marble Surfaces Stone and marble floors often require polishing to remove scuffs and restore their natural luster. Using the right equipment and polishing agents is key to maintaining the beauty of these materials.
- Polishing machine: Use a specialized stone or marble polisher to gently restore the surface’s shine.
- Sealing: Apply a stone sealer afterward to protect the surface from future wear and staining.

Tile and Grout Cleaning Grout lines between tiles can accumulate dirt and grime over time, making even freshly cleaned tile floors appear dirty. Dry dock is the ideal time to deep clean these areas.
- Grout cleaner: Use a high-quality grout cleaning solution and scrub brushes to remove embedded dirt.
- Grout sealing: After cleaning, apply a grout sealant to protect the area from future staining and dirt buildup.

Key Tasks for Carpet Floor Care and Restoration

Carpets onboard a cruise ship endure heavy use, particularly in areas like hallways, staterooms, and lounges. Regular deep cleaning during dry dock is essential to remove dirt, allergens, and stains that accumulate over time. This not only enhances the ship’s appearance but also contributes to a healthier environment for both crew and passengers.

Deep Carpet Extraction Cleaning Unlike surface vacuuming, deep extraction cleaning uses commercial carpet extractors to reach the dirt and debris embedded in carpet fibers. This method is essential for maintaining the longevity of the carpet and improving air quality onboard.
- Hot water extraction: Use a commercial-grade extractor to inject hot water and cleaning solution deep into the carpet, then vacuum up the solution along with dirt and allergens.

Stain removal: Focus on removing stubborn stains, particularly in high-traffic areas, using targeted stain removers.
Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal Spot cleaning specific areas can prevent long-term damage from spills or stains. This can be especially important in food service areas, lounges, and bars where spills are common.
- Spot treatment: Apply a specialized spot cleaner for stains like food, beverages, or grease. Allow it to sit before scrubbing gently or using a carpet extractor to lift the stain.

Odor removal: In addition to stains, carpets can harbor odors. Using deodorizing products can neutralize these smells, ensuring a fresh-smelling environment.
Carpet Protectant Application After deep cleaning, applying a carpet protectant can extend the lifespan of the carpet by repelling future dirt and stains. This barrier helps prevent spills from seeping into the fibers and makes future cleanings easier.
- Carpet protectant: Spray a protectant evenly over the cleaned carpet and allow it to dry completely. This creates an invisible shield that reduces staining and wear from foot traffic.
Carpet Repairs If any areas of carpet show signs of wear, tear, or unraveling, dry dock is the ideal time to address these issues. Repairing small sections now can prevent the need for larger, more costly replacements later.

5. Restroom and Galley Deep Cleaning

Restrooms and galley areas are among the busiest spaces on a cruise ship, experiencing continuous use by passengers and crew alike. These areas can quickly accumulate grime, bacteria, and other contaminants that, if left untreated, can pose health risks and affect the overall cleanliness of the ship. Therefore, dry dock is the ideal time to perform a thorough deep cleaning and sanitation of these critical spaces to ensure they are spotless, hygienic, and fully functional for the next voyage.

Key Tasks for Restroom Deep Cleaning:

Thorough Cleaning of Surfaces The high traffic in restrooms can lead to a buildup of soap scum, mildew, and grime on surfaces like sinks, countertops, mirrors, and partitions. Use industrial-strength cleaners and disinfectants that are designed to break down tough residues while killing harmful bacteria and viruses.
Descaling and Sanitizing Fixtures Restroom fixtures, such as faucets, sinks, and showerheads, often develop mineral deposits due to hard water. Descaling these fixtures is essential for maintaining water flow and ensuring they function properly.
- Faucets and sinks: Use descaling agents to remove lime, calcium, and mineral deposits, which can lead to poor water pressure and unsanitary conditions.
- Showerheads: Disassemble and soak in a descaling solution to ensure proper water distribution and prevent buildup of bacteria.
Cleaning Ventilation Systems Ventilation is crucial for maintaining air quality and controlling moisture levels in restrooms. During dry dock, inspect and clean exhaust fans and vents to prevent mold growth and ensure proper airflow.
- Exhaust fans: Clean dust and debris from fan blades and grills to ensure efficient operation.
- Ductwork: Inspect and clean ductwork to remove any buildup of dust, mold, or other contaminants.
Inspection and Repair of Plumbing Fixtures Functional plumbing is key to maintaining restroom hygiene. During dry dock, inspect all plumbing fixtures for leaks, blockages, or signs of wear. Address any issues to avoid operational disruptions once the ship is back in service.

Key Tasks for Galley Deep Cleaning:

Drain cleaning: Inspect and clear floor drains to prevent clogs and improve drainage during service.
Sanitizing Food Preparation Areas: The galley is the heart of food service on a cruise ship, and maintaining food safety standards is essential to preventing contamination. Dry dock is the perfect time to sanitize all surfaces, including countertops, cutting boards, and food prep stations.
Counters and tables: Use food-safe sanitizers to clean all surfaces where food is prepared or served.
Cutting boards: Deep clean and sanitize cutting boards to remove food particles and bacteria.
Food storage areas: Empty and clean storage areas, including walk-in coolers and pantries, to eliminate spoiled food, mold, or pests.
Degreasing Kitchen Equipment: Kitchen appliances like ovens, grills, fryers, and exhaust hoods are prone to accumulating grease, which not only affects their performance but also poses a fire hazard. Use heavy-duty degreasers to break down tough grease and grime on these surfaces.

Ovens and grills: Scrub down cooking surfaces and interior components to remove burnt-on food and grease.
Exhaust hoods and filters: Clean filters and hoods to remove grease buildup and improve air quality, reducing the risk of kitchen fires.
Deep Cleaning and Sanitizing Appliances All appliances, from refrigerators to dishwashers, should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to ensure food safety. Inspect each appliance for functionality and address any necessary repairs during dry dock.
Dishwashers: Run a cleaning cycle with descaling and sanitizing agents to ensure optimal performance and cleanliness.
Floor Cleaning and Drain Maintenance The floors in galley areas are exposed to spills, grease, and debris throughout regular operations. During dry dock, deep clean all flooring to prevent slip hazards and improve hygiene.
Floor scrubbing: Use a floor scrubber or deck brush with a degreasing agent to remove buildup.

6. Engine Room Upkeep

The engine room is one of the most challenging areas to clean during dry dock, as it’s constantly exposed to grease, oil, grime, and other industrial residues. Proper maintenance of this space is crucial, not only for the ship’s appearance but also for ensuring that the machinery operates efficiently and safely. A clean and well-maintained engine room reduces the risk of mechanical issues and promotes smoother day-to-day operations once the ship is back in service.

Essential Cleaning Supplies for the Engine Room

Given the nature of the engine room, it’s important to stock up on high-quality, absorbent materials and specialized cleaning products that can tackle the toughest grime. Your team will need a variety of supplies designed for industrial environments to ensure that every corner of the engine room is thoroughly cleaned and properly maintained.

Recommended Products:

Absorbent reclaimed rags: These are essential for wiping down surfaces, machinery, and spills. They’re durable enough to handle grease and oil, making them a go-to solution for engine room cleaning.
Degreasers: Engine components accumulate stubborn grease over time, and a heavy-duty degreaser is necessary to break down and remove these residues. Ensure the degreaser is suitable for use on engine parts without causing damage.
Microfiber towels: These are excellent for finishing touches and detail work, such as polishing control panels or wiping down sensitive equipment that needs a gentle touch without scratching.

Best Practices for Engine Room Cleaning

To maximize efficiency and safety, your team should follow a systematic approach when cleaning the engine room. This area requires attention to detail, especially around critical components like engines, pumps, and electrical systems. Here are a few key steps to keep in mind:

Pre-cleaning inspection: Before starting the cleaning process, conduct an inspection to identify any specific areas that require special attention, such as leaks or heavily soiled spots.
Degreasing: Apply a degreaser to all greasy surfaces and allow it to sit for the recommended time to break down oil and grime. Afterward, use absorbent rags to wipe the surfaces clean.
Final inspection: After the cleaning is complete, inspect the engine room again to ensure all areas are thoroughly cleaned and all machinery is functioning properly.

Safety Considerations

Cleaning the engine room presents additional safety challenges due to the presence of hazardous substances, electrical equipment, and moving machinery. Your team should be outfitted with proper PPE, including gloves, respirators, and protective eyewear, to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals and to prevent injuries.

Final Thoughts

Dry dock provides a vital window of opportunity for cruise ships to undergo comprehensive maintenance and cleaning, ensuring they are fully prepared for future voyages. This period allows crews to tackle essential tasks that are difficult or impossible to perform while passengers are on board, from deep cleaning to inspecting critical systems.

With no passengers to accommodate, the focus shifts entirely to enhancing the ship’s functionality and appearance. Thorough cleaning, routine inspections, and necessary repairs are all carried out to ensure the ship runs safely and efficiently once it returns to service.

If you’re in need of specialized cleaning products for your ship’s dry dock, Imperial Dade offers a wide range of over 30,000 items, including many tailored specifically for maritime use. With top-quality supplies from leading manufacturers, we’re here to help you maintain your ship to the highest standards.

Our Cruise and Global Marine Division can help you improve operations, save money, and protect the environment through our hands-on approach to customer service. Contact us to learn more.