Navigating confined spaces safely

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines confined spaces as fully or mainly enclosed spaces with a reasonably foreseeable, specific risk to workers of explosion, fire, asphyxiation and loss of consciousness. Noxious fumes, reduced oxygen levels and drowning following flooding are also potential hazards of these areas.

So the body advises only working in such spaces where this is completely unavoidable. Obviously, it is also important that no one enters a confined space unless they are able to do so safely.

Here’s what you need to do to ensure safe navigation of restricted spaces:

Planning and preparation

• Identify potential hazards via a thorough risk assessment.
• Be sure you have the right permit-to-work in place, to confirm all the relevant checks have been done.
• Develop and implement a safe system of work, including procedures for emergencies, entering the space and all work activities.
• Have the right emergency contingency plans in place.
• Ensure all those entering and working in the confined area have had the right training, are competent in what they are doing and understand the potential risks.

While in the space

• Ensure adequate ventilation as far as possible, to provide enough fresh air and eliminate dangerous gases.
• Continuously monitor the atmosphere, looking at oxygen levels and for flammable gases and toxic substances.
• Ensure everyone wears the right personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, including respirators, gas detectors and harnesses, as appropriate.
• Have good communication in place between those inside and outside the space, and have someone with the right training on hand to monitor things at all times. There should also be an emergency team available, with the right kit, who can communicate with those in the space.

After the work

Post-entry, review your safety processes and adapt as necessary. Equally, change your emergency rescue plans as appropriate.

Confined spaces training from Pragmatic Consulting

Pragmatic Consulting specialises in high-quality training for the utility and construction sectors, including a variety of confined spaces courses.

Learn more about our comprehensive two-day City & Guilds Level 2 Award in Entrant and Entry Controller for Confined Spaces training at our Stoneleigh Training Centre, aimed at those working in confined spaces deemed to be medium-risk.

We also run City & Guilds training for work in low, medium and high-risk spaces, lasting one, two or three days respectively.

Got a question? Or want to book a course for six delegates or more? Give us a call on 01926 674340 or email support@pragmatic-consulting.co.uk

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