Enclosed Space

Question 1

Talk through the steps regarding entry into an enclosed space

Answer 1

• Revise check list for entering an enclosed space
• Empty tank and isolate
• Carryout a risk assessment
• Request a permit to work
• Open tank lid carefully and check it is empty
• Post warning signs up at the entry and secure the area
• Ventilate for 24hrs
• Inspect he flammable limit is below 1% and oxygen is above 20%
• Have rescue gear ready with a standby guy with communications at the entrance
• Test the air regularly and keep contact with the standby guy

Question 2

What if you lose communication with the guy in the tank?

Answer 2

Radio call for assistance, do not enter the tank and be the hero. Once assistance has arrived then don a breathing apparatus and test the tank. Then enter and start rescue operations. Have crew start preparing medical gear for worst case scenario

Question 3

If the crew member is found in an enclosed space unconscious and not breathing?

Answer 3

As you would have followed company procedure you will have the medical gear on site, ours has a step by step checklist on what to do in several scenarios

Question 4

What is COSWP Chapter 15?

Answer 4

This chapter is Entering Dangerous (Enclosed) Spaces. It covers information such as:
- Duties and Responsibilities
- Precautions
- Identifying hazards
- Preparing a space
- Testing
- Procedure
- Breathing apparatus
- Emergencies

Question 5

What is the COSWP Flow chart?

Answer 5

A step by step guide on how to carryout a enclosed space entry

Question 6

What are the atmospheric limits?

Answer 6

• Oxygen shall be 20%
• Toxic gases shall be below the harmful level
• Any flammable gases shall not be within the flammable range

Question 7

What gases are we testing for and their limits?

Answer 7

Hydrocarbons shall not be greater than 1% when with 20% oxygen as that is flammable

Oxygen to be greater that 20%

Question 8

What levels is the gas detector looking for and what levels are allowed for o2, H2, Co, Hydrocarbons?

Answer 8

02 - 20%
H2 - Less than 1% of the LFL
CO -100ppm 15mins // 20ppm 8hrs
Hydrocarbons - Less than 1% of the LFL

Question 9

What are the risks when entering a sewage, ballast or fuel tank?

Answer 9

The possibility of deep sludge that when disturb will release further gases.