Work In Confined Spaces

What is a Confined Space? Any space of an enclosed nature where there is a risk of death or serious injury from a specific risk Examples: Storage tanks, silos, enclosed drains, sewers, chambers, vats, ductwork, unventilated rooms

Hazards Lack of oxygen Poisonous gas, fume or vapour Ingress of liquids or free-flowing solids Fire and explosion from flammable vapours, excess oxygen etc. Residues which give off gas, fume or vapour Dust Hot conditions

Control Measures

Avoid Entering Confined Spaces Modify confined space itself so that entry is not necessary Have work done from outside

Safe System of Work If entry cannot be avoided, SSoW will need to be developed from risk assessment Properly train and instruct everyone in SSoW

Supervision Supervisors should be given responsibility to: Ensure that necessary precautions are taken; Check safety at each stage Possibly remain present while work is carried out

Suitable Employees Trained and competent Physically suitable Fit to wear breathing apparatus Not susceptible to claustrophobia Medical advice may be necessary

Isolation Mechanical & electrical if necessary Physical isolation of pipework Physical checks to ensure safety Sign isolation points

Ventilation Increase amount of openings Provide mechanical ventilation Never use petrol fuelled equipment in confined spaces

Air Testing Check for presence of toxic and flammable vapours Check for oxygen levels Carried out by competent person using suitable gas detector which is correctly calibrated Continuous monitoring may be necessary

Tools and lighting Non-sparking tools and specially protected lighting where flammable or explosive atmospheres are present RCDs and low voltage equipment may be necessary to prevent electric shocks

Breathing Apparatus Essential if air is not fit to breathe due to gas, fume or vapour, or lack of oxygen Never try to sweeten air with oxygen as this increases risk of fire or explosion

Emergency Arrangements Contact with emergency services Practice drills Rescue equipment e.g. Lifelines & harnesses Train and instruct all staff in emergency procedures Top man to raise alarm in case of emergency Trained first aiders on hand Fire fighting equipment nearby Rescuers need to be fit and capable of carrying out rescue

Communication Adequate communication system to allow people inside the space to communicate with people outside the space if necessary Adequate communication system to allow people outside the space to summon help immediately if necessary

Permit-to-Work Systems Written system Ensures all elements of safe system are in place Clearly identifies responsibilities Should include contractors Everyone will need to be trained and instructed

Other Controls Cleaning and purging Steam cleaning

Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 Avoid entry to confined spaces If entry to a confined space is unavoidable, follow a safe system of work Put in place adequate emergency arrangements before the work starts “Due diligence” defence