


| Working In Confined Spaces Safety NotesBefore Entering Confined Spaces Consider - Are there any unusual or specific hazards associated with the confined space work, such as other workers or working with heat (welding)?
- Are there any site occupancy restrictions and conditions, including access and egress, work schedules and emergency management arrangements, including emergency communication and evacuation plans?
- Prior to any work-taking place in the confined space, the space must be naturally ventilated for a minimum period of ten minutes. If satisfactory atmospheric levels are not obtained then forced ventilation must be used until satisfactory gas test results are achieved.
- Prior to any entry taking place, the atmosphere of the confined space must be tested to comply with the following.
• Oxygen >19.5% by volume and <23.5% by volume • Flammable gas <5% by volume • Hydrogen Sulphide <10 ppm • Carbon Monoxide <30 ppm
- Confined space signage and barricading is applied at the entry site prior to entering
While Working In Confined Spaces- Maintain communication with other fellow workers and the stand-by person
- Alert the stand-by person of any hazards
- Understand the rescue and work procedures prior to entrance
- Exit the confined space quickly when required
When Developing a Confined Spaces Safety Program Consider:- Advice on how to identify confined spaces.
- The identification and assessment of all potential hazards that may exist at the beginning of the work as well as those that may develop because of the work activities.
- A plan to eliminate or control all identified hazards.
- Training program for all the workers that will enter into the confined spaces.
- The establishment of an entry permit system for each entry into a confined space.
- Development of an emergency plan complete with training and equipment in case an unforeseen situation occurs.
- An emergency response system.
- Program review whenever there is a change in circumstances or at least annually, to identify program weaknesses and make any necessary changes to the program.
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