Confined spaces awareness Toolbox Talk
A confined space can have fatal atmospheres, engulfment or restricted rescue even when it looks harmless. Do not enter unless a competent assessment, safe system and rescue plan authorise it.
Key points
- Avoid entry by doing the work from outside where reasonably practicable.
- Identify spaces with restricted access and foreseeable specified risks.
- Use a permit and competent supervision where the safe system requires it.
- Isolate pipes, plant, electricity and material ingress.
- Test and monitor the atmosphere with suitable calibrated equipment.
- Provide ventilation, communication and controlled access.
- Prepare trained rescue with suitable equipment; do not rely only on 999.
Do
- Obey barriers and permits.
- Keep an attendant where specified.
- Stop on alarm or changing conditions.
Don't
- Do not enter to rescue without the plan and equipment.
- Do not use oxygen to ventilate.
- Do not assume yesterday’s test remains valid.
Questions to ask the group
- Can entry be avoided?
- What are the specified risks?
- How will rescue be achieved?
References: Confined Spaces Regulations 1997; HSE INDG258 Safe work in confined spaces