Confined Space and Working at Height FAQ
The HSE defines a confined space as a space that:
- Is Substantially Enclosed: not necessarily completely enclosed but has limited openings for entry and exit.
- Is Not Designed for Continuous Human Occupation: It is not a space where people are meant to work for extended periods.
- Presents a Risk: It has potential hazards that could pose a risk to health and safety, such as fire, explosion, loss of consciousness, asphyxiation or drowning.
Working in a confined space requires having a rescue plan but not every job needs a rescue team. The following should be considered when deciding if a rescue team is required:
High-Risk Work Environments: working in areas with hazardous materials or atmospheres.
Confined Spaces: When work is performed in confined spaces with limited access routes.
Permit-Required Work: When performing tasks that require a permit due to associated risks, such as hot works.
Emergency Situations: During operations where there is a high likelihood of accidents or emergencies, such as working with heavy machinery or in unstable environments.
Complex or Unusual Tasks: When engaging in complex tasks that involve multiple risks or unique hazards, necessitating specialised rescue skills and equipment.
Regulatory Compliance: When regulations or safety standards require the presence of a rescue team to ensure compliance and safety.
A rescue team should be well-trained, equipped with the necessary tools, and familiar with emergency procedures relevant to the specific risks involved.
The responsibilities of an entry controller for confined spaces typically include:
Pre-Entry Assessment: Conducting a risk assessment of the space before entry, identifying hazards, and ensuring that appropriate controls are in place.
Permit Issuance: Authorising entry by issuing and managing confined space entry permits, ensuring that all conditions and safety measures are met.
Equipment Checks: Ensuring that all required safety and rescue equipment is in good working condition and available for use, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and monitoring devices.
Monitoring: Continuously monitoring the conditions within the confined space and the health and safety of those inside, ensuring that atmospheric conditions remain safe.
Communication: Maintaining clear communication with personnel inside the confined space and with those outside, ensuring that any issues or emergencies are promptly addressed.
Emergency Preparedness: Ensuring that an effective rescue plan is in place and that rescue personnel are prepared and trained to respond in case of an emergency.
Training and Competence: Confirming that all personnel involved in the entry are properly trained and competent to perform their tasks safely.
Documentation: Keeping accurate records of permits, inspections, and any incidents or observations related to the confined space entry.
Coordination: Coordinating with other safety personnel, such as safety officers and rescue teams, to ensure comprehensive safety management.
Review and Feedback: Reviewing and evaluating the entry process and any incidents or near-misses to improve future practices and safety procedures.
Work at height refers to working in any location where a person could fall a distance that might cause injury if no precautions are taken. Examples include:
- Working on a ladder or flat roof
- Risk of falling through a fragile surface
- Risk of falling into an opening in a floor or hole in the ground
Before working at height, follow these steps:
- Avoid Working at Height: Assess whether the task can be completed from a lower level or by other means that do not involve working at height.
- Ensure Safety or Use Proper Equipment: If a safe work area isn’t an option, choose the appropriate equipment designed to prevent falls.
- Minimise Fall Risks: Use suitable fall protection equipment to reduce the distance and impact of any potential fall.
Safe Working Near Water FAQ
Working around water involves several hazards that can pose serious risks.
- Downing: Falling into the water or being unable to get out.
- Slips, trips and falls: Slippery surfaces, uneven terrain, or obstacles near the water.
- Equipment and machinery: Equipment used near water can become unstable or cause electrocution.
- Changing water levels: Fast-moving water can pull individuals or objects away.
- Contaminated water: Exposure to polluted or chemically contaminated water can cause health issues.
To prevent falls into water, implementing various safety measures is essential. Here are some effective strategies:
- Barriers and guard rails physical barriers or guardrails around working area
- Signage: visible warning signs and markers to alert workers to potential hazards and restricted areas around water.
- Personal Flotation Device: appropriate PFDs for workers who are at risk of falling into water. Ensure they are correctly fitted and easily accessible.
- Training regular training on water safety, emergency response, and the proper use of PFDs. Perform drills to ensure readiness in case of a fall.
- Safe System of Work: clear risk assessment and method statements for working near water, including guidelines for safe access and exit, and ensure they are followed.
- Lighting: areas near water are well-lit to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Equipment: safety harnesses and lanyards where appropriate, especially in high-risk areas or when working from elevated positions.
- Supervision: effective supervision and communication.
- Weather Monitoring: weather conditions and avoid working near water during adverse weather, such as storms or high winds, which can increase the risk of falling.
- Emergency Response Plan: a clear emergency response plan for incidents involving falls into water, including rescue procedures and first aid.
If someone falls into the water, having a well-prepared response plan and necessary equipment is crucial for ensuring their safety and swift recovery. Here’s what should be in place:
- Preventative measures
- Raise the alarm
- Keep afloat
- Grab and throw lines
- Rescue boat
Falling into water can lead to various consequences, depending on factors like the height of the fall, water temperature, and the individual’s physical condition. This can include some of the following:
- Cold water shock and difficulty breathing
- Incapacity caused by injury
- Fatigue
- Hypothermia
- Dragged under from weight of clothing
Choosing the right personal buoyancy aid depends on several factors including the type of activity, the environment, and personal needs.
- Type of activity? Consider frequency of use and mobility required to complete the task.
- Type of environment? weather conditions, type of water body
- Size and Fit: Ensure the buoyancy aid fits comfortably.
- Buoyancy Rating: Check the buoyancy rating is adequate for the task.
By taking these factors into account, you can select the most suitable personal buoyancy aid for your needs and ensure safety in various water-related activities.
