WORKING IN CONFINED SPACES AN
OPPORTUNITY TO REVIEW PROCEDURES
The publication in 2015 year of a revised Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 offers the ideal opportunity to review policies, procedures and competences for situations where employees are required to work in a confined space, particularly as there can be some debate or confusion over what specifically defines a confined space. Part of that review should also consider the implications of the access and work activities to be undertaken within the confined space.
DEFINITION
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) defines a confined space as an area that is substantially, although not always entirely, enclosed and where serious injuries can occur from hazardous substances or conditions such as lack of oxygen within the space. Confined spaces can take many forms including silos, storage tanks, reaction vessels, sewers and enclosed drains, open topped chambers, vats and ductwork. The specified risks associated with working in such spaces are defined as…
• The serious injury to any person at work arising from a fire or explosion
• The loss of consciousness arising from an increase in body temperature
• The loss of consciousness or asphyxiation arising from gas, fume, vapor or the lack of oxygen
• The drowning of any person at work arising from an increase in the level of liquid
• The asphyxiation of any person at work arising from a free flowing solid
• The inability to reach a respirable environment due to entrapment by a free-flowing solid
These risks may be inherent because of the nature or purpose of the enclosed space or they could be introduced by the activity being undertaken within the space.
To assist in the identification of confined spaces, the new ACOP includes a flow chart designed to steer the user towards the right conclusion and, hopefully, avoid any confusion or misinterpretation. Other additions include a new section on actions for workspaces with a reduced oxygen concentration and an alignment with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 for a requirement for fit testing of respiratory protective equipment.
ASSESSING THE RISK
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, a suitable and sufficient assessment must be carried out for all work activities to determine what measures are necessary for safety. In relation to work in confined spaces, this involves
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