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605 Confined Space Safety
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Reasons for Entering Confined Spaces

Accessing a confined space is often carried out for different purposes. Typically, it is done to complete essential tasks like inspections, repairs, maintenance (including cleaning or painting), or other similar activities. These tasks are not regularly performed as part of the overall industrial process, but rather on an occasional or irregular basis.

Rescuers must practice to be successful.

Entry may also be made during new construction. One of the most difficult confined space entries to control is unauthorized entry, especially when large numbers of workers and trades are involved, such as welders, painters, electricians, and safety monitors.

A final and most important reason for entry would be an emergency rescue. Before the initial entry is made, all rentry reasons must be well planned, and workers must review the hazards thoroughly.

Since deaths in confined spaces often occur because the atmosphere is oxygen-deficient or toxic, confined spaces should be tested before entry and continually monitored. More than 60% percent of confined space fatalities occur among would-be rescuers; therefore, a well-designed and properly executed rescue plan is necessary.

Fatalities can occur when the rescuers:

  • Are overcome by their emotions
  • Take unnecessary chances
  • Do not know the hazards involved
  • Do not have a plan of action
  • Lack confined space rescue training

It is essential to know that the period of time for successful rescue is very limited. Otherwise, a rescue attempt will become body retrieval. After only four minutes without oxygen, a worker will likely experience asphyxiation, which may result in brain damage or death.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-3. Who is most likely to suffer a fatality in a confined space emergency?