Confined Space Safety

[Abid Khan]

What is a Confined Space?

Any enclosed space having limited excess and egress and is not designed for continuous human occupancy. It may have presence of toxic or flammable gases, Oxygen deficiency or Oxygen enrichment.

It is difficult to provide first aid, rescue and emergency response inside a confined space.

What are hazards of a confined space?

• Availability of toxic material/gases
• Availability of flammable material/gases,
• Poor lighting
• Poor ventilation
• Oxygen enrichment or deficiency
• Excessive heat
• Improper isolation

What are control measures of a confined space?

• Permit to work
• Gas test
• Hole watcher
• Rescue system (Safety Harness, Lifeline)
• Outside Lifting (Tripod)
• Rescue plan
• Air ventilation
• Lighting
• < 24v electrical / non-electrical tools
• Frequent breaks
• communication device