Confined spaces training

Whatever their role and working circumstances, safety is of utmost importance. In order to maintain your safety, it is important to recognise and understand the potential hazards of working in confined spaces and follow the key list of dos and don’ts to stay safe.

The main hazards are the risks relating to noxious fumes, reduced oxygen levels and the possibility of fire. Other dangers may include flooding/drowning or asphyxiation from some other source such as dust, grain or other contaminants.

Dos and don’ts of working in confined spaces 

Do…

• Be fully aware of the possible dangers of working a confined space at all times

• Ensure that you are confident and capable within your role and trained in both the work itself, as well as in the use of any emergency equipment that may be needed
  
  

Don't…

• Work in confined spaces unless it's essential to do so

• Become complacent – just because a confined space is safe one day doesn't mean it will be on any day

• Let others enter a confined space until you’re sure it's safe to do so

The importance of confined spaces training

In line with the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, training for individuals working in confined spaces is mandatory in order to ensure safety. The nature of the training will depend on the individual’s previous experience and the exact work they’ll be undertaking. Qualifications are available in both confined spaces working as well as safe entry and escape.

Confined space training will cover

• the Confined Spaces Regulations, particularly the need to avoid entry to a confined space, unless it is not reasonably practicable to do so [regulation 4(1)]

• an understanding of the work to be undertaken, the hazards, and the necessary precautions

• safe systems of work, with particular reference to ‘permits-to-work’ where appropriate

• how emergencies arise, the need to follow emergency procedures and the dangers of not doing so

Training should also cover the practical use of safety equipment (such as atmospheric testing equipment, breathing apparatus and PPE) and the identification of defects, with demonstrations and practical exercises included to give hands-on experience and really embed the knowledge. It is also important to undertake refresher training so that all confined space workers keep their knowledge current and are aware of any developments and updates. 

What confined spaces training do we offer?

Working in a Medium Risk Confined Space - NC3 (Safe Entry & Escape BA)
This course is designed for those who need to enter spaces that are substantially enclosed and where the work environment is potentially hazardous. It could also be useful for managers and engineers who may need to control work in these locations. The course will cover many topics including:

• Legal requirements

• Risk assessments and safe systems of work

• Equipment required to enter a confined spaces

• The purpose and use of escape breathing apparatus

• PPE and hygiene

• Ventilation and the avoidance of unsafe atmospheres

• Communication and entry procedures
  
  

Working in a High Risk Confined Space - NC4 (Safe Entry, Escape BA & Full BA)

This course is intended for those who need to enter spaces that are substantially enclosed and where the work environment is potentially hazardous. If the facilities are suitable an entry or simulated entry exercise may be conducted. The course will cover many topics including:

• Legal requirements

• Risk assessments and safe systems of work

• Equipment required to enter a confined spaces

• The purpose and use of gas detection equipment and escape breathing apparatus

• The use of ropes and safety harnesses

• Communication and entry procedures

• Use of self-contained working breathing apparatus
  
  

Confined Spaces - Awareness & Risk Assessment
This course is aimed at those with responsibility for controlling work in confined spaces and/or carrying out risk assessments prior to permitting entry into confined spaces - delegates should already be capable of carrying out general risk assessments. The course will cover many topics including:

• Confined spaces regulations 1997

• Risk assessments

• Who is affected? What is the risk condition of the confined space

• Safe systems of work including permits to work

• Arrangements for emergencies

• Equipment required to enter a confined space

• Maintenance of equipment

• Manpower including training requirements
  
  

Check out our confined spaces brochure and get in touch if you’d like to know more…

Source
hse.gov.uk