For those running organizations in a number of industries and sectors, it’s essential to factor in provision for confined space rescue. This is because working in areas such as oil, gas, maritime, mining, power generation and wastewater management can involve operating in highly challenging working environments, and, therefore, employers must be diligent in providing an effective means of exit for their teams.
Why Working in Confined Spaces Can Be Dangerous
Confined spaces in the workplace are not always simply small, cramped areas where access in and out may be difficult. Instead, such spaces are typically categorized as mostly enclosed places where there is a notable risk of death or serious injury due to hazards present, or nearby.
For many industries, essential work must be carried out in tight spaces where there are likely to be hazards present. Such environments can include locations such as sewers, silos, tanks, and drains. When the need to wear cumbersome PPE in such areas is also factored in, entry and exit from these areas can be made even more challenging, particularly in an emergency situation.
Different Types of Hazards in Confined Spaces
The hazards faced by workers in a confined space can include atmospheric irritants such as dust, harmful gases, vapours and fumes. A lack of oxygen can be a major hazard in certain confined spaces, which can be the result of chemical reactions that create carbon dioxide (for example, the presence of rust, or a combination of oxygen with certain soils and minerals can all lead to oxygen levels becoming seriously depleted).
Flooding is another major danger, as small spaces can quickly fill with liquid, and trap or drown those working within them. The risk of fire or explosions is also a key hazard of working in a confined space, particularly where hot, potentially sparking tools are being utilized in an environment where flammable gases or materials are also present.
And, of course, working in hot conditions can prove dangerous for the human body, and those carrying out tasks in bulky PPE in a small, poorly ventilated space may soon find themselves overheating, leading to potentially serious conditions such as heatstroke, exhaustion, and collapses.
Making Working in A Confined Space In Toronto Safe
When you are working in a confined space in Toronto, you will want to feel confident that your safety has been fully considered. Before you or your teams enter any confined space, it’s important to have all the preparations in place to ensure that everyone involved knows the correct safety procedures for the work to be done. Carry out a thorough risk assessment before you begin, and give your team training specific to working in a confined space. Using devices such as atmosphere testing tools, breathing apparatus, and non-sparking equipment is also a wise decision.
Having an expert in confined space rescue will ensure that you can carry out tasks in a potentially hazardous environment whilst feeling reassured that, should difficulties arise, you will be evacuated quickly and efficiently. Choosing to partner with an expert in confined space rescue will ensure that your organization is well prepared for every eventuality.