NEWSDESK


that operate confined spaces, there is a limited understanding of what a confined space is in relation to the specific job in hand. Ifmanagement does not appreciate fully that a forthcoming work programme involves a confined space as defined under the regulation then they will not consider what needs to be done tomeet the regulatory requirements currently in place.


Whilst this featuremay apply to only a small number of people working the field it will be those that have themost likelihood of an incident happening due to simple ignorance of the potential dangers involved.


The latest update on the Confined Spaces Code of practice was issued back in 2014,may well be due for a further update at any time. Anyone not familiar with the Code should get a copy (https:/ /www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l101. htm) and adhere to it and if they are not


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familiar with confined space requirements or situations perhaps a training course is in order.


There are also documents available to both employees and employers concerning working with sewage and whilst those working within this sector on the contracting side are noted as being applicable to the information in the document, the concept of a confined space is notmentioned at all. This in itselfmay be part of the concern about those being unfamiliar with confined spaces being unable to recognise one when it stands in front of them!


TRAINING


Several organisations offer training courses for Confined space, a simple tour online will provide a list of all those where course can be taken and the range of qualifications that they offer.


There are several levels of confined | July 2023 | www.draintraderltd.com


space qualification that are available including low risk,mediumrisk, high risk and special situation qualifications. There are also supervisor and management course as well as rescue and refresher courses for all of the foregoing.Most, if not all, the training organisations and operators offermost if not all of these. Some of themost well-known providers of courses in the sewer and drainage section providers include: Develop, Jetchem/Superjet, HSS Training, Civil Safety, Confined Space Services,MRS Training and Rescue, ESS Safeforce, VP Groundforce and others.


But this list is not definitive and there are others that provide courses. A simple online search for confined space training will provide a very comprehensive list. It is probably wise to check out the courses available to establish which are those that best suit the workforce to be training and the most convenient location for the


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