Confined Space Entry: Controlling Risk
Does your work site or organization have people working in confined spaces? Any space that is configured in such a way that employees are hindered in their activities or movements through entering, working in and exiting is considered a confined space. Examples of confined spaces include pits, tanks, vaults, silos, pipelines, vessels and many others. Due to the inherent hazards (potential for hazardous atmosphere, asphyxiation, electrocution, burning, drowning, etc.; or converging/caving walls, sloping or tapering floor, etc.), confined spaces require a permit for entry.
Our confined space entry course covers the dangers involved in working in confined spaces, how to work safely, types of PPE, how to operate equipment, how to summon help and so on.
The Dangers of Working in Confined Spaces
One of the most important factors to consider when working in a confined space is the small margin for error. Without proper training and safety precautions, workers might overlook potential hazards and can result in serious consequences. With confined space entry training, workers are able to identify, evaluate, and take potential hazards into consideration when working in confined spaces. Some of the reasons that working in a confined space is more dangerous than working in other workspaces include:
- Entering and exiting quickly is more difficult with less room
- Rescuing workers is more difficult – less room for safety equipment
- Conditions are unpredictable and can change quickly
- Communication can be more difficult between workers
- Natural ventilation can be limited
Working in a confined space can often be unpredictable and even life threatening. That’s why the ability to properly identify and assess and potential hazards is so important. Contact us to learn more about our confined space entry training program!
