1.3 Confined spaces

Question 1

A confined space is defined in the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 as:

Answer 1

… any place, including any chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench, pipe,
sewer, flue, well or other similar space in which, by virtue of its enclosed
nature, there arises a reasonably foreseeable specified risk.

Question 2

Specified risks are risks of:

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Answer 2

 serious injury from a fire or explosion
 loss of consciousness as a result of an increase in body temperature
 loss of consciousness or asphyxiation arising from gas, fume, vapour or the lack
of oxygen
 drowning from an increase in the level of liquid
 asphyxiation from a free flowing solid, or entrapment by a free flowing solid
preventing access to a breathable atmosphere.

Question 3

Examples of doing work without entering a confined space include:

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Answer 3

 sampling contents using long handled tools
 inspection of vessel interiors by remote controlled cameras and CCTV monitors
 cleaning by designed-in self-cleaning systems.

Question 4

The main elements to consider when designing a safe system of work are:

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Answer 4

  supervision 
  competence 
  communication 
  testing / monitoring the atmosphere 
  gas purging 
  ventilation 
  removal of residues 
  isolation from gases, liquids and other 
flowing materials 
  isolation  from  mechanical  and 
electrical equipment 
  selection  and  use  of  suitable 
equipment 
  PPE and RPE 
  portable  gas  cylinders  and  internal 
combustion engines 
  access and egress 
  fire prevention 
  lighting 
  static electricity 
  limiting work time 
  use of permit-to-work procedure

Question 5

Emergency arrangements factors to consider

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Answer 5

Rescue equipment 
Raising the alarm and rescue 
Safeguarding the rescuers 
Control of plant
First aid 
Public emergency services
Training