TRAINING – CONFINED SPACES HOW CAN YOU MANAGE RISKS?
A confined space is not necessarily somewhere you have to “squeeze” into, or crawl about on your hands and knees in. It can be defined as a place which is substantially or entirely enclosed, where serious injury could occur from hazardous substances or working conditions either within or near to it.
COMMON RISKS
Common risks associated with confined spaces include asphyxiation, entrapment, fire, explosion and drowning.
These risks are covered by The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and having an understanding of these regulations is essential. A common approach is for companies to suggest that all enclosed areas be deemed confined spaces, however knowledge of what turns an enclosed area into a confined space is fundamental to managing the hazards and risks associated with people working in them.
KEY DUTIES
Companies have several key duties when it comes to managing the safety of employees working in confined spaces…
• Avoid entry to confined spaces where possible – are alternative methods of carrying out the work available? These could include environmental monitoring, the use of water jets or long handled tools for cleaning or carrying out visual inspection using a porthole or CCTV system
• Always follow a safe system of work – where confined space working is unavoidable always follow a safe system of work which identifies risks and highlights the necessary control measures needed. The competence of entrants must also be established which allows any specific training concerns to be addressed. This includes managing the behavioural culture of workers and overcoming any ‘this is the way we have always done it’ attitude that may exist
• Using appropriate equipment – minimises the risks associated with working with tools in confined spaces. Environmental monitors, an established communication methodology and standard PPE are basic requirements
• Put emergency arrangements in place to rescue workers – companies should not rely solely on the emergency services, however it is good practice to inform the relevant authorities if works are on- going. Depending on the level of risk it may also be prudent to have a dedicated rescue team close to the confined space entry point
CATCH
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk
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