Why Working in Confined Space is Hazardous ?

Working in confined space is more hazardous than working in other workplaces because:

• The entrances/exits of confined spaces might not allow the entrant to evacuate effectively if there is a flood or collapse of free-flowing material;

• Self-rescue by entrant is more difficult;
  

• Rescue of the victim is more difficult. The interior configuration of a confined space often restricts the movement of people or equipment within it;

• Natural ventilation alone is often not sufficient to maintain breathable quality air because the interior configuration of some confined spaces does not allow air movement to circulate;

• Conditions can change very quickly;

• The space outside the confined spaces can impact on the conditions inside the confined spaces and vice versa; or

• Work activities may introduce hazards not present initially.

Why Entry into a Confined Spaces is Needed ?

People enter a confined spaces for:

• Cleaning;
• Inspection;
• Maintenance and repair;
• Construction; or
• Rescue, etc.

Requirements for Working Safely in Confined Space

When any person enters or carries out any work in a confined spaces, the Employer and/or Principal shall comply with the regulations strictly.

Under the legislation, the responsible person has to ensure safe entry/working in confined spaces. These include:

• Identification/Record/Warning Signs/Information of all confined spaces at the workplace;
• Evaluation of the need for entry into the confined spaces;
• Safe means of access to and egress from the confined spaces;
• Safe practices for opening the entrance of a confined spaces;
• Sufficient and suitable lighting for entry into or work in a confined spaces;
• Adequate ventilation of the space to sustain life before entry and during work in a confined spaces;
• Procedures and control of entry into a confined spaces including gas testing;
• Safety and health training on working in confined spaces for workers and supervisors;
• Emergency rescue operations in confined spaces which include the establishment of a rescue plan and provision of rescue equipment for confined spaces;
• Appointment of a confined spaces attendant; and
• The worker is fit to work in confined spaces.

Types of Injury

The types of injuries relevant to confined spaces accidents include:

• Injuries arising from fire and explosion;
• Loss of consciousness or asphyxiation arising from harmful gases, vapours or fumes, free
• flowing solids or lack of oxygen;
• Drowning arising from an increase in level of liquid;
• Heat-related disorders;
• Electrocution;
• Physical contact with moving or rotating parts; and
• Falls from height.