No matter what industry you are in, safety should be your top priority. Some workplaces are more hazardous than others, this is the reality of today’s work environment. Working in tight spaces can be hazardous. It is important that you only allow qualified and experienced workers to work in these potentially hazardous environments. Particularly, workers should have the necessary confined space training and qualifications to enter and work within confined spaces.
What Qualifies A Confined Spatial?
What then is a “confined space”? A confined area is defined as an area with limited or restricted access or exit, and that is not intended to be used continuously. Here are some common examples of confined spaces that workers may encounter.
- Tanks
- Vessels
- Storage Bins
- Hoppers
- Vaults
- Pits
- Manholes
Many jobs require workers to frequently enter restricted spaces. Many jobs require you to be in confined spaces, such as vacuum truck operators and pump truck technicians, oilfield labourers, construction workers, electricians and scaffolders, and welders, among others. It is not a common practice to work in confined areas, but it is strictly regulated. All persons who enter confined spaces need to have the appropriate confined space safety equipment, training, and permits.
Why Is Confined Space So Dangerous?
For many reasons, working in confined spaces can be dangerous. Some of these are hard to see or invisible. There are three main reasons why working within confined spaces can be dangerous.
- Dangers from noxious gases
- Low Oxygen Levels
- Fire Risks
- Flooding and Drowning Risks
- Asphyxiation risk
- Contamination risks
- Access difficulties during emergencies
These areas pose greater safety and health hazards, so all workers must be trained to use them. For those who work in confined spaces, training is required by law. But, workers who do not have proper training can be seriously injured or even killed.
Why Confined Area Entry Training Is Important?
Workers must learn all aspects of the confined space before they can be allowed to enter it. To be able to enter a confined space, workers must have the following skills:
They must recognize potential hazards and be able to identify them.
They must be familiarized with the control and evaluation procedures for potential hazards.
They need to be familiar with how equipment is set up and used and what limitations it has. Equipment may include ventilation equipment or emergency equipment.
They need to be familiarized with the limitations, set-up and use of all the personal protective equipment (such as respirators and full-body harnesses) they will use when working in the restricted space.
They must know the steps to take in the case of an emergency or a situation that could be dangerous for them.
They must be familiarized with the tasks that need to be completed in this small space.
They must be able to work together in a way that does not put their lives or the lives of others at risk.
Workers who do not have the right training in operating in tight spaces are at high risk for serious injury.
Safety is important in any workplace, especially if workers are exposed to higher risks, such as working in confined areas. Safety Training Academy offers Confined Space Entry training.
