Workplace safety has always posed a serious consideration for various industries including construction, manufacturing, and industrial processing. Most underrated yet one of the most dangerous kinds of risks in such workplaces could be the confined space risks. Confined spaces include storage tanks, tunnels, silos, and underground vaults. Most get the need for the Attendant, but many believe that an incident will not happen because of the “safety systems” in place. The issue is these do have an influence on Non Fatal Injuries, however these systems are not showing the same impact on Serious Injury and Fatalities. The seriousness of the situation, we believe, deserves having a competent Confined Space Rescuer with equipment is more important than the Attendant.
Regulatory Compliance and Legal Requirements
Ontario has enacted strict safety regulations for the workplace, Ontario Regulation 632/05 Confined Spaces requires the employer to plan for their rescue from confined spaces. Other key requirements include:
- Proper identification and assessment of confined spaces
- Availability of a trained rescue team on-site
- certified confined space rescue equipment
Noncompliance with such kinds of regulation would subject the organization to penalties, legal actions, and, most importantly, the possibility of loss of lives.
Understanding Confined Space Risks
Employees working in this environment are liable to face several life threatening hazards including:
- Oxygen-deficient atmosphere
- Gaseous hazards or chemical hazards
- Gravity or mechanical energy
- Engulfment
Having such risks therefore makes it imperative, not optional, to have a competent person involved with the task to prevent serious injury or fatality. A “competent person” in the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act means a person who,
- is qualified because of knowledge, training and experience to organize the work and its performance,
- is familiar with this Act and the regulations that apply to the work, and
- has knowledge of any potential or actual danger to health or safety in the workplace;
In many situations, the Attendant cannot meet this definition. They have very little training on hazard awareness, atmospheric monitoring let alone any knowledge of O. Reg 632. This means they cannot complete Section 6(5) of O Reg 632/05 (the employer shall appoint a person with adequate knowledge, training and experience to carry out the (hazard) assessment). Nor could they complete O Reg 632/05 Section 10(3) – (b)efore each shift, a competent person shall verify that the entry permit complies with the relevant plan. So you need another person, we suggest that it be a competent Rescuer.
The Role of a Confined Space Rescuer with Equipment
Often it is the Rescuer who develops the Emergency Response Plan for the space. This plan is based on the hazards that can cause the injuries. The injuries along with the space configuration drive the selection of the injury stabilization tools and retrieval gear that will be necessary. A well trained Rescuer will also know the control systems necessary to protect them during a rescue. These systems, if put in place prior to entry, will also protect the worker in the space which lessens the types of injuries the Rescuer may have to deal with.
A competent Confined Space Rescuer would not only respond to emergency situations in confined spaces, but could also perform the following major roles:
1. Prevention and Safety Assurance
- Conducting pre-entry hazard assessments
- Ensuring proper ventilation, gas monitoring and other hazard controls are deployed and working properly
- Ensure compliance with the regulations and safety standards
- Ensures operations continue smoothly without accidents
2. Emergency Response
- Developing and implementing rescue plans
- Reduces the response time during an accident
- Provide immediate medical attention if necessary
- Reduces downtime caused by workplace incidents
A properly trained and equipped Confined Space Rescuer is an indispensable safety and regulatory requirement for any confined space. In addition this role can allay fears among the workers which will enhance worker productivity.
Essential Equipment for Confined Space Rescue
A Confined Space Rescuer in addition to being physically fit and well trained they require specific equipment to be on the job. The equipment includes:
1. Gas Detection Monitors
- These detect toxic gases that maybe present in the confined space such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and volatile organic hydrocarbons.
- Monitors oxygen levels to ensure enough breathing space for workers who are at risk.
2. Respiratory Protection Gear
- Air-purifying or powered air purifying respirators to protect from dust
- Supplied air respirators for operations that have toxic gas levels over the Time Weighted Average Exposure Levels or oxygen deficient atmospheres. In many cases it will have to be an airline respirator with escape cylinder rather than a SCBA
3. Frame (Davit Arm or Tripod) and Winch Systems
- Helps lift workers vertically out of confined spaces
4. Harnesses
- Ensures secure extraction of workers
- Provides a “handle” for body manipulation during rescue operations
5. Packaging (Injury stabilization) Device
- Secures the injury to prevent further injury during the extraction process
- Provides casualty protection during rescue operations
6. Other Devices
- Two-way systems (radios, intercoms, etc.) for real-time coordination between the Rescuer and those outside the space
- Hands-free lighting to increase visibility in the space
- Portable lifting aids (inch worm systems and anchors) for short lifts during transport that the main lifting system cannot reach
- Wheel system that can attach to your packaging device to assist in any horizontal travel that can take place during the extraction
- Specialize PPE (e.g. chest waiters, knee pads, etc.) to enhance Rescuer protection
6. First Aid and Medical Supplies
- Oxygen tanks and defibrillators for emergency response
- First aid supplies to handle traumatic injuries
Confined Space Rescue is a complicated event. With the proper equipment, the possibility of a serious injury or fatality is reduce as the hazards are better controlled.
Benefits of Hiring a Confined Space Rescuer with Equipment
- Enhanced Workplace Safety
- Reduces the risk of fatal incidents
- Creates a culture of safety and awareness
2. Compliance with Safety Standards
- Avoids legal complications and penalties
- Demonstrates a commitment to worker well-being
3. Quick Emergency Response
- Reduces the response time during an accident
- Increases chances of survival for trapped workers
4. Minimized Business Disruptions
- Ensures operations continue smoothly without accidents
- Reduces downtime caused by workplace incidents
The Role of Trademark Safety and Rescue in Confined Space Safety
Trademark Safety and Rescue is a leading provider of confined space rescue services to ensure elite safety solutions for establishments. They specialize in confined space entry, rescue, and safety training, in addition to being equipped with state of the art equipment as well as 280 hours, our professionals not only ensure a high level of compliance but also safety for the employees.
Services Offered by Trademark Safety and Rescue:
- Confined space hazard assessment
- On-site rescue team deployment
- Customized safety training programs
It offers all companies a chance to enhance their workplace safety and minimize risks associated with confined space work by contacting Trademark Safety and Rescue for a partnership.
Final Thoughts
Confined spaces can be fatal for workers; hence, every organization should have a Confined Space Rescuer with Equipment available on-site. The right training and safety procedures along with rescue equipment can prevent accidents and save lives. Moreover, safety regulations compliance and partnering with experts such as Trademark Safety and Rescue will significantly enhance workplace health and safety.
To focus on the needs of confined space rescue planning today will ensure businesses remain legally compliant, their employees safe, and operations go on without unexpected disruption. Don’t wait for a disaster- invest in a Confined Space Rescuer with equipment today to save your workplace!