subject: Confined Space Training [print this page] Confined Space Training Confined Space Training
Would you want to put your workers at risk if you didn't have to? Of course you wouldn't but each year, a set number of workers die in the UK because they have to enter a confined space as part of their duties. With appropriate Confined Space Training they'd be ok, especially if a Confined Space Risk Assessment had been completed beforehand. How do you classify a confined space? The Confined Space Regulations 1997 provides a detailed description of what might be construed as an enclosed area. Of course, highlighting a confined area and establishing what type of Confined Space Training might be required are two completely different things. What do you do if you recognise a need for Confined Space Training?
Have a Confined Space Risk Assessment completed at your premises
This methodical assessment will establish where potential hazards are in your building or on your site. Once you identify confined areas, and if you know work has to be completed within them from time to time, a suitable course of Confined Space Training could be given to team members that have to work in these areas. As part of the Confined Space Training, the pitfalls of working within certain areas will be addressed. Things to take into consideration include the dangers that working in a confined area could present, for example, if fumes or dangerous vapours might be present in the enclosed setting, or whether fire or smoke might be a factor. During Confined Space Training delegates learn about space awareness and the safe entry and exit from problematic areas. The use of breathing apparatus might also be required and this is another part of the Confined Space Training.
What happens if I'm trapped?
It's the worse case scenario. You enter a silo, a chimney or other type of confined space to carry out essential repairs or routine maintenance work and experience problems. Would you know what to do in this scenario? The answer would be a resolute yes if you'd taken part in Confined Space Training. Moreover, if your colleague had been on rescue courses as part of Confined Space Training, they'd be able to react to the situation, ensuring their safety and your safety wasn't hindered. If you or any of your co-workers have to enter a confined space to carry out work duties, it's essential you take part in Confined Space Training. Courses are offered by training providers who carry out a Confined Space Risk Assessment on behalf of their clients.
