Safety Topic: Confined Spaces in the Workplace
Confined spaces present significant safety risks within the workplace. These risks arise because such spaces are generally not intended for regular human occupancy and often lack adequate ventilation, leading to the rapid development of hazardous atmospheres. Hazards in confined spaces may not be immediately apparent and can vary with each entry, underscoring the importance of rigorous safety protocols.
Definition of a Confined Space
Under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulations in Western Australia, a confined space is defined as any enclosed or partially enclosed area that:
- Is not designed or intended primarily for human occupancy.
- Is, or is designed to be, at normal atmospheric pressure while a person is in the space.
- Presents, or is likely to present, a risk to health and safety due to the presence of hazardous atmospheres, contaminants, or the potential for engulfment.
Key Risks Associated with Confined Spaces
Working in confined spaces can result in serious health and safety consequences, including loss of consciousness, injury, or fatality. Principal risks include:
- Exposure to airborne contaminants, which may cause immediate health effects.
- Fire or explosion resulting from the ignition of flammable substances.
- Challenges in rescuing or treating an injured or unconscious person within the space.
- Oxygen deficiency or the risk of engulfment in free-flowing materials such as grain, sand, fertiliser, water, or other liquids.
- Falls from heights within the confined space.
- Environmental factors, such as extreme temperatures.
- Inadequate lighting.
- Manual handling hazards.
Determining Confined Space Status
The classification of a confined space is based on both its physical characteristics and the hazards associated with the work performed within it. For example, a space may become a confined space if the work to be conducted generates hazardous concentrations of airborne contaminants. For a space to be reclassified as a non-confined space, it must undergo permanent changes that eliminate all hazards originally defining it as a confined space. Temporary control measures—such as providing ventilation or achieving a satisfactory pre-entry gas test—are not sufficient for reclassification.
Compliance and Best Practice
Employers and workers must comply with the Safe Work Australia Code of Practice and the WHS Act and Regulations (WA) when working in or around confined spaces. This includes:
- Conducting thorough risk assessments before entry.
- Implementing appropriate control measures, such as atmospheric testing, ventilation, and emergency response planning.
- Ensuring all personnel involved are adequately trained and competent in confined space procedures.
- Maintaining clear records of confined space entry and associated risk controls.
By adhering to these guidelines and legislative requirements, organisations can significantly reduce the risks associated with confined space work and promote a safer working environment.