Emergency Rescue
It is sad but true that more than 60% of confined space fatalities happen to the people trying to perform a rescue. These rescuers often lose their lives because they are not properly trained or equipped to handle the situation safely.
When a worker is in trouble inside a confined space, it is natural for co-workers to want to help right away. However, entering a confined space without the right training and equipment puts the rescuer at serious risk. Many confined spaces contain dangerous gases, low oxygen levels, or other hazards that can quickly overcome anyone who enters unprepared.
According to OSHA, all workers assigned to perform rescues in confined spaces must receive proper training. They must be trained to recognize the hazards, use the correct rescue equipment, and follow a safe rescue plan. The training must also include practice drills so rescuers know what to do in an emergency.
Employers must develop and implement a rescue plan before any work begins in a confined space. This plan must include information about how to safely remove a worker in trouble and how to protect the rescuers. All rescuers must be familiar with the specific confined spaces at their worksite and be ready to respond in a way that does not create more victims.
Emergency rescue is a serious responsibility that requires knowledge, skill, and preparation. With proper training and planning, lives can be saved and further tragedies can be prevented.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-1. Why do more than 60% of confined space fatalities occur among would-be rescuers?
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