Learning The Major Points In Maintaining Confined Space Safety
Being Aware Of The Major Reasons In Preserving Confined Space Safety
Confined spaces are sewers, pits, storage tanks, or pits. These places pose risk for workers because of their physical features and the hazardous elements present in them. Generally, confined rooms or chambers offer restricted entry and exit. At the same time, they have poor ventilation and air circulation inside is also restricted. These factors produce a hazardous atmosphere inside enclosed spaces. Working in these places requires appropriate confined space training.
There are several elements that can make occupation in a confined space dangerous. The lack of natural ventilation robs anyone of oxygen and this could be compounded by the nature of work done inside or the presence of chemicals. Enclosed spaces at industrial and construction sites have three major hazards and these are lack of breathable air, presence of toxic chemicals, and existence of fire hazards. Such hazards don't only put the health of workers in danger but also poses immediate life risks. Hence, people working in these areas should always conduct themselves appropriately.
Confined space training involves identification of hazards present in a confined space. Such hazards shall be assessed in terms their magnitude and the health risks they impose. Working inside enclosed places will then have to conform to safety standards to avert accidents, injuries, and loss of lives. Assessment of a confined area is extremely vital in keeping the hazards checked.
One thing in particular that needs to be monitored is the condition of the air. Enclosed spaces only have limited amount of air, oxygen in particular. The amount of oxygen is even jeopardized by activities done inside the confined area. We know that the optimal level of oxygen is 19.5%. Anything above and below that percentage can be hazardous. Storage tanks or deep mining sites can be dangerous because of oxygen deficiency. Activities like welding or painting may reduce the levels of oxygen in a small space.
Workers assigned in hazardous conditions must be trained in identifying and controlling the risks because any incident resulting from exposure to hazardous elements in enclosed spaces can lead to work disruption and reduced productivity. The training should include assessment and monitoring of confined spaces, especially during the duration of occupation. For instance, detection of oxygen inadequacy should prompt wearing of appropriate breathing apparatus.
The toxicity of air inside confined spaces poses another risk for workers. Toxic fumes, dust, and gases pose risk on workers occupying an enclosed unit for a period of time. Toxic gases may be generated during the course of manual work such as welding, painting, sanding, or degreasing. Materials already present inside the enclosed space may also pose risks. Volatile and fuming chemicals in storage sites can generate toxic fumes and vapors within the confined area. Appropriate breathing apparatus should also be worn by workers present in the area.
Enclosed spaces with flammable gases pose even greater risk because of their toxicity aside from flammability. Flammable gas or vapor poses fire hazard when it reaches a certain concentration. Appropriate fire resistant gear should be worn and fire safety equipment should be at hand.
Missing out on key points in upholding confined space safety can lead to serious tragedies. You cannot wait for that to happen. The best way to prevent fatalities is to educate workers on how to properly perform tasks in hazardous environments. Since managers cannot handle the instruction and training for workers, they would have to hire certified professionals with experience in confined space training.
Workers who do tasks inside precarious environments are not the only ones who need confined space safety training. Those who conduct rescue missions to the confined site should also go through training. Rescue missions can be dangerous and many rescuers have perished while doing rescue missions in dangerously enclosed environments. This is why experts suggest that an emergency team must also be trained.
About the Author
Jo is a writer for 'Phoenix Safety Services Ltd' (http://www.phoenixsafety.co.uk), an established specialist in personalized Health and Safety Training that are given to a wide range of clients throughout UK and Europe. If your firm is searching for experts who can give confined space training courses to their delegates or has a Confined Space equipment rent, purchase and maintenance requirement then have a look at Phoenix Safety Services Ltd.
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