| To work safely in confined spaces, always plan | | | | while light gases like methane will rise to the top. |
| and detail the execution of all work and activity | | | | Test the oxygen levels and for toxicity as well. |
| within the space. If hazards are present, ensure | | | | Notify your superior if tests find hazards that you |
| that they are removed before entry is permitted. | | | | cannot protect against adequately. Continue |
| Always remember the exit plan, as there is no | | | | testing the air quality during the course of work |
| point in getting in if you cannot get out | | | | to further guard against build up of dangerous |
| afterwards. | | | | gases or oxygen deficiency. |
| Before you enter | | | | Purging and Ventilating |
| Acquire a Permit | | | | Purge and remove all unwanted water, |
| Most spaces require a permit by the organisation | | | | atmospheres, sediments, or other substances |
| carrying out the work before workers are | | | | before entry, as these may all become safety |
| allowed to enter. Ensure your employer or unit | | | | hazards. |
| has obtained the necessary permit. It should be | | | | Finally, use ventilating equipment whenever |
| prominently displayed at the space during an | | | | possible to maintain the oxygen level between |
| entry. | | | | 19.5 and 23.5%. Toxic gases and vapours, if |
| Control Hazardous Energy | | | | present should also be kept to within acceptable |
| Make pertinent use of locks and tags to prevent | | | | levels. If ventilation or purging does not eliminate |
| accidental start up of equipment. Cut off steam, | | | | all atmospheric hazards, appropriate respiratory |
| water, gas or power lines that enter the space. | | | | protection is mandatory before commencing |
| Lock out / tag out is a good system for that. | | | | work. Eye and hearing protection may also be |
| Use only safe, grounded, explosion proof | | | | necessary. |
| equipment and fans if there is a possibility of a | | | | Rescue Procedures |
| combustible atmosphere developing. | | | | Nearly two thirds of confined space deaths result |
| Test the Air | | | | from attempted rescues. Workers are to work in |
| Use the necessary equipment for checking | | | | a buddy system, to designate another worker to |
| oxygen levels, combustibility and toxicity levels in | | | | remain outside the confined space to monitor the |
| confined spaces. Test before the space is opened | | | | work, and to provide rescue when required. He |
| by probing with the test apparatus near the | | | | should be equipped with the necessary personal |
| entry. | | | | protective equipment and be trained in first aid |
| Once the space is opened, sweep the probe from | | | | and CPR. He should maintain constant |
| top to bottom to test the entire space. Heavy | | | | communication with the person working within the |
| combustible gases like propane and butane sink, | | | | space with either radio or telephone. |