Working in confined spaces poses serious health and safety risks. Proper training is essential for mitigating these hazards. This article outlines the top five hazards in confined spaces. We will also share details on how confined space training Brisbane helps keep workers safe. Then you can go ahead with training and equip yourself with the skills to ensure safety.
Table of Contents
What Are Confined Spaces?
Confined spaces have limited openings for entry and exit. They have restricted airflow which can allow hazardous atmospheres to occur. Some examples of confined spaces include tanks and silos. You can also consider pits and sewers as examples of confined spaces. Depending on the nature of your job, you may have to work in these confined spaces.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates confined spaces to protect workers. Employers must have procedures for space entry permits and monitoring. It is also important to ensure proper ventilation and emergency response. By doing this, employers will be able to ensure the safety of all employees who work in confined spaces. With this in mind, let’s take a look at the dangers of confined spaces.
Hazard #1: Oxygen Deficiency
Normal air contains around 21% oxygen. In a confined space, oxygen can be displaced by other gases. This oxygen deficiency can rapidly lead to unconsciousness and death. Proper atmospheric testing and ventilation are key. Workers should have proper training to use oxygen monitors before entry. If the oxygen level is below 19.5%, nobody should enter without an air-supplied respirator. This hazard assessment can help save lives.
Appropriate safety procedures should be in place to test this. Then it is possible to make sure that no worker gets in without proper training. Make sure to include respiratory protection equipment as well. With proper equipment use, workers will be able to ensure their safety when working in confined spaces.
Hazard #2: Flammable Gases
Many materials can release flammable gases like methane or hydrogen sulfide. At certain concentrations, these gases can ignite from a spark or hot work. Confined space training focuses on using combustible gas monitors to test workspace air. It is important to decide whether to remove flammable gases or not. If the flammable gas concentration exceeds 10% of the lower explosive limit, removal is a must. Proper ventilation should also be available for workers who access such spaces. They must use monitoring equipment and adhere to entry and exit procedures throughout. Make sure to focus more on implementing safety protocols. If the use of safety equipment is mandatory, workers can effectively ensure their safety.
Hazard #3: Toxic Substances
Confined spaces may contain toxic gases like carbon monoxide, ammonia, or chlorine. Nobody can detect these gases by their smell. Training helps workers recognize symptoms of exposure like irritation and dizziness. It can even lead people to breathing issues. Air monitoring and respiratory protection are vital safeguards against toxic atmospheres. By using gas detectors, it is possible to confirm the presence of them. By wearing breathing apparatus, it is possible to access such spaces.
Hazard #4: Engulfment
Liquid storage tanks, silos, and other spaces pose engulfment risks. Workers can become trapped and suffocate in materials like grain, water, or chemicals. Training covers the hazards of bypassing safety guards or entering when there is a clog. Proper securing and positioning of workers is also part of engulfment prevention.
Hazard #5: Hazardous Atmospheres
Combinations of hazards can create immediately dangerous atmospheres. Oxygen deficiency along with toxic gases can have compounding effects. An area safe for entry can suddenly become hazardous. Training focuses on continuous atmospheric monitoring whenever possible. Evacuation procedures must be in place before any confined space entry. When entering such spaces, using harnesses and lifelines is mandatory. It is also important to use protective clothing and communication devices. They provide an extra layer of safety to the workers.
Effective Training Is Essential
Training creates a safety-focused mindset when working in potentially hazardous confined spaces. Key aspects covered should include below.
- Review of all standard safety procedures
- Proper use and limitations of respiratory protection
- First aid, evacuation, and emergency response
- How to identify and assess unique hazards
- Safe operation of any entry or monitoring equipment
- Detailed overviews of all entry/exit and ongoing safety protocols
Final words
With proper confined space training, workers can effectively mitigate the top hazards. Employers must ensure the workforce knows how to follow safe entry procedures. Workers should also be familiar to use protective equipment and respond to emergencies. Advanced preparation and training help prevent avoidable accidents in confined space work.
Vertical Horizonz also offers working at heights course Brisbane to workers. Anyone who wishes to get this knowledge can think about following the training. Employers should also consider recommending training like this to employees. Then it is possible to access confined spaces with confidence and complete work.
