There are unique challenges when it comes to confined spaces and you need to have specialised training and skills to navigate these spaces safely. In this article, we will go through some practical skills you need to know when it comes to staying safe in various scenarios.
You can look for a work in confined spaces course so that you can obtain a certification in this. Safety is an important aspect that will be covered in this course. Before you enter a confined space, you have to carry out a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and determine the right control measures. You need to recognise common hazards which can be limited entry and exit points, inadequate ventilation, risks of engulfment, toxic atmosphere and physical obstructions in the space. Once you identify the risks, you need to evaluate them for their severity and the likelihood of encountering them. This will be assessed based on the nature of your work, previous incidents that have taken place, environmental conditions and control measures available. You need to then implement control measures so that the identified risks can be mitigated. You can ensure ventilation to the space if there is poor air supply and maintain atmospheric monitoring. The workers should also wear personal protective equipment so that they can better face the conditions in the confined space.
You have to monitor the atmosphere inside
The confined space so that hazardous vapours and gases can be detected. You can also determine whether there is insufficient oxygen. You need to choose the right gas detectors, atmospheric testing equipment etc. based on the specific hazards of the confined space. You will also need to calibrate the monitoring equipment and carry out pre-entry testing so that you can make sure the readings of oxygen levels, toxic substances, flammable gases etc. are accurate. You need to have training when it comes to interpreting the results of monitoring. You should understand what alarm indications are and what action to take in the event of an emergency. This can be using respiratory protection and evacuating the area. Proper planning and communication are needed to enter and exit the confined spaces safely. You need to have pre-entry checks so that you can make sure that all required tools, equipment and personal protective equipment are in place.
There will also be entry permits to be obtained in certain locations
A buddy system can be implemented so that mutual assistance can be provided during the entry and exit operations. This will include continuous monitoring and communication. You need to be familiar with the emergency procedures for evacuating the confined space in case there is an unforeseen hazard. And this means having a good understanding of emergency response plans and rescue protocols. Communication is vital in confined space work and you have to maintain clear and standardised communication methods so that warnings, instructions and status updates can be conveyed to the team members. You can also establish two way communication systems so that real time communication can take place between the workers inside the confined space and those outside.
