It is inevitable at some point in your career that you may need to enter a confined space. Understanding the dangers and being able to identify a confined space and any hazards you may encounter is critical to navigating this situation safely.
A confined space is defined as any space that is large enough to enter, is not designed for human occupancy, and has limited entry or exit points. A confined space permit is needed for any confined space with a hazardous atmosphere or some other type of hazard, such as an electrical or mechanical hazard.
All confined spaces present a serious hazard and require some prior planning before entering the space, as defined above. Some things to consider are the essential dangers of confined spaces which include:
Toxic fumes Oxygen deficiency Explosive atmosphere Exposure to hazardous energies Moving parts of the machine Envelopment/entrapment Necessary safety precautions
Therefore — it is important to conduct a hazard assessment in all confined spaces and:
Identify all necessary hazards and controls; include the hazards created by the job itselfFor a confined space permit, make sure the space is approved by the leadership on the project or client
In a confined space, the air must be testedβbut in the required confined space it must be subjected to a control, and therefore when testing, you must:
Ensure there is initial and continuous monitoring of toxic/flammable fumes and oxygenEnsure adequate ventilation and control when performing hot work or applying chemicals, either in a confined space or in an adjacent areaCheck for adequate and continuous ventilation when hazardous atmospheres are possibleBlock all energy sources — this includes stored energiesWear appropriate protective controls and equipment — this includes respiratory, skin, eye, and fall protection in some casesSet up a recovery device consisting of a tripod with a retractable lifelineMake sure you have a rescue plan or contact a local jurisdiction that has authority to see if they can provide a safe rescueConfirm that confined space training is up-to-date for: entrance staff, present supervisors, rescue personnel
You should also have an assistant that:
Is located at the point of entryIs in communication with rescue and entry personnelKnows how to prevent heat stress: 1) Take breaks as needed in a cool environment, and 2) Don’t forget to consume a lot of liquids
Remember that a confined space can be deadly if the entrance is not carefully planned and executed.
Please contact the Weifield Safety department if you have any questions about a confined space. We can assist you and your team in pre-planning and executing entrance to a confined space safely.
Until next time…ππ¨π«π€ ππππβππβπ¬ ππ‘ππ πππ¬π²!
