The Essentials for Working in Confined Spaces

In need of a confined space course in Perth?

Working in confined spaces is an increased risk factor in many workplaces across Western Australia.

Due to the inherent risks involved, restricted space and operations require proper permits and safety training.

There are some essential things that every manager, supervisor and employee should know about working in confined spaces. So let’s jump right into… the article, that’s not the confined space. Here, we’re going to give you some general knowledge of the confined spaces that you and your team may find that you have to crawl into as part of your work.
Working in confined spaces is hazardous

8 Some of the confined spaces pose a greater danger than others. But they all come with their share of safety hazards and risks.

Confined spaces include areas of work such as:
Tanks
Silos
Open Ditches
Vaults
Tunnels
Manholes
Wells

Workers entering confined space The risks of working in confined spaces cover risks such as:
Fire
Chemical Burns / Exposure
Air Quality
Asphyxiation
Biohazards
Slips, Falls, Getting Trapped, Etc.
Material Shifting / Falling

As you can see, a combination of risk plus a broad definition of confined space means that many workplaces across Australia are exposed to risk from confined spaces.

Facts About Confined Space Working

In order to further underscore the risk or work in confined spaces and the need for limited space safety training, consider the following facts.

• Accidents in confined spaces have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of workers each year; some of these deaths are labelled “Partners in Death” because coworkers often get hurt or die trying to save victims of confined space accidents.
• Death in confined spaces may be caused by “asphyxiation, engulfment, electrical shock, fall and heat stress”
• 85 per cent of confined space accidents can be prevented if workers are educated about job hazards.
• Confined spaces are large enough for employees to enter and work, but are not designed to be permanently occupied by workers due to their limited or restricted entry or exit options.
• Some confined spaces require permits for entry; they may contain hazardous atmospheres, hazardous materials, internal configurations that may cause the worker to suffocate, etc.

That’s why it’s important to have a proper training plan in place for any employee who may encounter or work in a confined space.

Confined Space Training

A safe work place is crucial, ensuring that you have the right safety procedures and policies in place for the entry of confined spaces will help you reduce the risk of accidents and injuries at work.

Our diverse team of certified health and safety professionals has taken great pride in our ability to deliver timely, cost-effective and relevant occupational health and safety solutions.

We look forwards to discussing how Perth Training Centre can help with your company’s safety requirements.