What is a Confined Space and how is it Determined?
Confined spaces are dangerous places for people to be in because the hazards they present may not always be obvious and may change. They may, for example, have inadequate ventilation so there is a danger of a poor atmosphere developing and overcoming anyone who is in there.
Problems may also occur if a person in the confined space becomes ill for any reason. Whatever the problem, getting people out of a confined space may not be easy so it is essential that confined spaces are recognised and relevant action taken if someone is working in them.
Confined Spaces and the Risk of Working in Them
A confined space within an industrial setting can be a structural void in a building, a drain or a large container such as a water tank. It is any space that is fully or partially enclosed, whatever its size, and is not intended to be occupied by people. If someone is in a confined space, it should have normal atmospheric pressure.
The risks to health from being in a confined space are:
- Suffocation due to low oxygen levels.
- Becoming unconscious, possibly leading to death, due to airborne contaminants.
- Explosion or fire caused by gases or flammable dust.
- Engulfment by grain, fertiliser or liquid that can cause suffocation or crush injuries.
If workers do encounter problems, would-be rescuers may also be overcome because they are not aware of the risks. This emphasises the need for safe working and rescue procedures.
Controlling and Monitoring the Use of Confined Spaces
Working in confined spaces is covered by regulations that specify the need to enter should be eliminated wherever possible. If not, entry to the space must be controlled, safe access provided and the risks either eliminated or minimised.
Specific measures to counter the risks of working in confined spaces are as follows:
- Complete a risk assessment prior to each entry. This must be done by someone who is competent and needs to consider if the task can be undertaken without entering the confined space. If not, the assessment must set out the characteristics of the space and any hazards associated with it, how the work is to be done and the procedure for emergency response.
- Eliminate risks by isolating equipment so it does not activate in the space or introduce contaminants.
- Keep the area well ventilated and remove ignition sources.
- Issue a permit for everyone entering the space after ensuring they are competent. The permit will identify the space and the person entering it, specify when the work is to be done and outline any control measures against risks when entering and working in the space. Once the work is complete, the permit will acknowledge the person has safely exited the space.
- Erect signs that warn that unauthorised people are not permitted to enter the space. These signs should be posted permanently if possible, otherwise at least while the space can be accessed. Lockable barriers should also be installed to prevent unauthorised access.
- Ensure a person continuously observes and monitors the space while it is occupied. This person must never enter the space but must retain communication with those inside, order them out if there is a problem and start emergency procedures if necessary.
- Provide information to workers so they understand the risks, the required work and the controls that are in place. Also, give adequate training in the proper use of PPE and action to be taken in an emergency.
- Maintain training records for at least two years, risk assessments for four weeks after completion of the work, entry permits until the work is done and records of notifiable incidents for two years.
A systematic approach is required to fully comply and ensure complete safety. We can help you achieve all that is necessary so contact us if you need assistance with confined spaces.
