Confined Space Rescue
Highly trained rescue teams with various accreditations and certifications
LRES-UK Confined Space Rescue’s team of highly qualified personnel are experienced in many environments.
Confined space rescue involves the rescue and recovery of victims trapped in a range of confined spaces including boilers, underground vaults, silos, storage tanks, or sewers.
Confined space risk categories
Examples
A low risk confined space exists where there are easy access/egress and natural ventilation. A low-risk shallow entry with adequate natural or mechanical ventilation, where access is simple and unobstructed and there is no likely risk of flooding, e.g. meter chambers, valve chambers, booster pumping stations, PRV chambers.
Measures
If the workplace is not deeper than 3 metres and has an unobstructed clear vertical lift e.g. straight ladder into a dark chamber then using a two-man team and remaining connected to a winch line with tripod etc then the entry may be made without the use of Escape Breathing Apparatus.
Risk Assessment
A Risk Assessment must be conducted in the planning stage and immediately prior to entry, the findings of the Risk Assessment will determine what precisely is required for entry and define the relevant control measures to be implemented.
Examples
A medium risk confined space exists when there are access issues, a realistic expectation of encountering a specified risk, possible introduction of specified risks during the work activity, e.g. Flammable, toxic or an oxygen deficient environment, etc. if relevant to the environment, employees will remain connected to the rope access system or a lifeline where it does not cause a further hazard(s), monitored by top man, and the use of escape breathing apparatus is also required in these circumstances.
Measures
When it is not possible to have persons permanently attached to a lifeline or rope access system e.g. when a team has to move away from the entry point in man entry. This type of work will involve a robust system of continuous monitoring, through the use of either a confined space rescue team, CCTV, or continuous communications/monitoring equipment and the use of escape or full breathing apparatus dependant on distance from the entry point with.
Risk Assessment
A Risk Assessment must be conducted in the planning stage and immediately prior to entry, the findings of the Risk Assessment will determine what precisely is required for entry and define the relevant control measures to be implemented.
Examples
A high risk confined space exists where non-standard entries involving complex operations which introduce additional risks and require specific controls or there is a specified hazard that cannot be controlled or eliminated, e.g. High gas levels exceeding those prescribed in EH40, mechanical and electrical hazards, enhanced intrinsic hazards.
Measures
Specific rescue procedures are also required for this type of work activity and should be confirmed as in place prior to any high-risk entry. There may or may not be access issues and the employee is expected to carry out their function in the presence of this specified risk, e.g. high Ammonia or Hydrogen Sulphide gas levels. Entrants must wear self-contained breathing apparatus or long duration airline breathing apparatus (a working set, NOT an escape set).
Risk Assessment
A Risk Assessment must be conducted in the planning stage and immediately prior to entry, the findings of the Risk Assessment will determine what precisely is required for entry and define the relevant control measures to be implemented including a confined space rescue team.
Common confined space hazards
Lack of oxygen
Low oxygen levels in enclosed spaces can lead to risks and slow down operators, requiring prompt action for recovery.
Toxic gas build-up
Toxic gases pose a risk in sewers, vessels, and trenches, similar to a lack of oxygen, requiring quick action.
Liquids and solids
Risk of hazardous residue in confined spaces storing bulk materials such as grain, flour and fermented feed like silage.
Fire and explosions
Preventing ignition in environments with flammable substances and oxygen to avoid explosive atmospheres.
Residue
Released hazardous vapours from residual material or chemical reactions caused by introducing another compound.
Dust
High concentrations of dust, particularly in silos for holding grain or flour, can be hazardous and difficult to detect.
Heat
Recognising the symptoms and intervening before high temperature or dehydration become critical issues.
Machinery
Large and small machinery can be dangerous and require extra precautions such as enhanced electrical protection.
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