What Is A Confined Space
A confined space is a work area that has limited entry and exit points and is not designed for continuous human occupancy. It is also a space that may contain hazardous or potentially hazardous conditions, such as poor air quality, low oxygen levels, or the presence of toxic gases or substances. Confined spaces may include tanks, silos, sewers, crawl spaces, or any other area that is difficult to enter and exit and may pose a risk to workers. Examples of confined spaces in the workplace include vessels, storage tanks, pits, pipes, boilers, ventilation ducts, and tunnels. Workers who enter confined spaces are at risk of serious injury or death due to asphyxiation, toxic gas exposure, fire, explosions, or drowning, which is why safety precautions and proper training are crucial when working in confined spaces. It is the duty of Health and Safety (HSE) professionals to ensure safety of workers in confined space.
Essential Confined Space Equipment
Confined space equipment is essential for ensuring the safety of workers who must enter confined spaces to perform their job duties, this is also an OHS requirement. Some essential confined space equipment includes:
1. Gas detectors – These devices detect the presence of hazardous gases and alert workers to potential dangers.
2. Ventilation equipment – This includes fans, blowers, and ducting used to provide fresh air and remove hazardous gases from the confined space.
3. Communication devices – Two-way radios, intercom systems, and other communication equipment are used to maintain contact between workers inside the confined space and those outside.
4. Personal protective equipment (PPE) – PPE includes items such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and respirators used to protect workers from hazards within the confined space.
5. Tripods and winches – These are used for entry and exit from the confined space and for rescuing workers who become trapped or injured.
6. Lighting equipment – Lighting is necessary to enable workers to see what they are doing and to identify potential hazards.
7. Lockout/tagout equipment – This equipment is used to ensure that energy sources within the confined space are isolated and cannot be accidentally activated.
8. Entry permit system – This is a formal system that ensures that entry into the confined space is authorized and that all necessary precautions have been taken.
9. Rescue equipment – This includes stretchers, first-aid kits, and other equipment necessary for rescuing workers who become trapped or injured.
10. Training materials – Workers must be trained in the safe use of confined space equipment and procedures to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
