subject: Choosing Confined Space Rescue Equipment [print this page] When it comes to rescue, as in all emergencies, you only have a few moments to do what you need to do. This is especially true when you are helping a worker get out of a confined space. Confined spaces are everywhere: tunnels, subcellars, silos, vaults, ship holds, bins, tanks, pits, wells, manholes.
Confined spaces can be very large or just large enough for a person to work; they have limited access for entry/exit, little natural ventilation, and not enough air to support long-term use. When a confined space rescue team goes to remove someone from a confined space, having the right kind of equipment is absolutely essential. Below, find four tips for choosing the right kind of confined space rescue equipment.
Quality Construction:
Any time you are working with rescue, you will want to use equipment that is made well. In confined spaces especially, it is important to have equipment that can withstand extreme pressure and rough use. Because it will be used by the confined space rescue team in a variety of environments, including very harsh ones, the equipment must be strong enough to stand up to the elements as well as to exceptional wear-and-tear. Systems will be rated for fail arrest, rescue, man-riding, or material handling; safety supervisors should choose what will offer more strength and less weight for the needs of their team.
Mechanical Systems:
When you are hoisting a worker out of a confined space and into safety, the most vital part of your equipment will be the mechanical system. The mechanical system is what actually gives you power to bring the worker up.
Convenience:
The key in confined space rescue is timing. You only have a few moments to pull a worker to safety, and the equipment you use needs to make the most of it. For this reason, the best rescue equipment is the kind that is convenient: easy to lift, easy to move, not hard to put together, and ready to store, quickly and without complications. Also, the equipment needs to be easy to transport since emergency situations are so time-sensitive.
Versatility:
Again, because confined spaces can differ so greatly, you want confined space rescue equipment that can serve in multiple situations and for different rescues. Look for tools that are adjustable for extreme situations and/or feature a modular design that allows for add-ons. This way, the equipment will be helpful in many rescue situations.
