What is a confined space?
Confined space Also known as Confined Space It is a place with limited space, poor ventilation, where toxic gases may accumulate, lack of oxygen, or flammable gases may easily occur, which can be dangerous to life and health, such as water tanks, pipe pits, treatment pits, cabinets, or dead spaces with limited entrances and exits. Working in these areas requires strict safety measures to prevent possible accidents.
The importance of working in confined spaces
Working in confined spaces is important in many industries, such as wastewater treatment, cleaning chemical tanks, repairing pits or drains. Working in these spaces requires a good safety plan and strict adherence to measures, as there is a high risk without proper control. Most accidents in confined spaces are caused by lack of oxygen, inhalation of toxic gases, explosive gases, falling from heights, or lack of timely assistance.
Hazards of working in confined spaces
- Lack of oxygen Confined spaces often have lower than normal oxygen levels because they are not well ventilated. Lack of oxygen can cause dizziness, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, and even death if not helped in a timely manner. Oxygen levels in confined spaces should be between 19.5% – 23.5% for safety.
- Accumulation of toxic gases Toxic gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) can easily accumulate in confined spaces. Inhalation of large quantities can cause nausea, dizziness, and immediate unconsciousness. These gases can cause worker unconsciousness and death if inhaled in large quantities without protection.
- Explosion from flammable gas Flammable gases such as methane or organic gases that accumulate in confined spaces, if there is a spark or a high enough temperature, can cause an immediate explosion, which will result in danger to the life of the worker. Important prevention is the measurement of flammable gases and good ventilation in confined spaces.
- Danger from falling or accidents from equipment Working in confined spaces that are narrow or low in elevation poses a risk of falling if the floor is unstable, or accidents caused by the use of unsafe equipment such as ladders, which can cause injury and even death.
- Loss of perception Working in confined, confined spaces can cause confusion or loss of awareness, especially if you have to stay in that space for too long. This condition can be caused by lack of oxygen and the pressure of a cramped environment.
- Infection or exposure to hazardous chemicals In some cases, confined spaces may contain chemical residues, such as chemicals from wastewater treatment or chemicals in storage tanks, which can cause irritation or toxicity through contact or inhalation. It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Hazardous gases that may be found in confined spaces
- Carbon monoxide (CO) It is a colorless, odorless gas. If inhaled in large quantities, it can cause unconsciousness and death.
- Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) It is a gas that smells like rotten eggs. It is highly toxic if inhaled in large quantities and can accumulate in poorly ventilated areas.
- Flammable gas For example, methane gas, which is produced by the decomposition of organic matter, can ignite if it is in high concentrations and there is a spark.
Safety measures for working in confined spaces
To ensure safe confined space work, it is essential to have complete safety measures in place, including risk assessment procedures, use of personal protective equipment, gas monitoring, and emergency preparedness.
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Risk Assessment
- Check the oxygen level in the confined space. The oxygen level should be between 19.5% – 23.5%.
- Check for toxic or flammable gases that may be in the area, such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, to ensure safety before entering the area.
- Assess additional environmental conditions, such as the risk of falls, slips, or working in dark areas.
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Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Most equipment used in confined spaces must include the following:
- Air filter mask used to filter toxic or flammable gases or SCBA breathing apparatus
- Chemical protective clothing, such as gloves and shoes, to prevent contact with chemicals.
- Safety belts and lifelines are used to enable workers to be pulled out of the area in an emergency.
- Flashlights and communication devices to be able to contact those outside the confined space.
- Use of the Confined Space Work Permit System
A confined space work permit is a document stating that the worker is authorized to enter a confined space and has all safety measures in place.
- Approval by a supervisor or safety officer trained in confined space operations.
- Identification of required operating procedures and safety measures
- Check the implementation of measures in the work permit to prevent unauthorized persons from entering the area.
What are the 4 systems for workers in confined spaces?
In Thailand, working in confined spaces must comply with laws that require a “4-person system” for worker safety, including:
1. Licensing Officer
Responsible for approving work in confined spaces by checking and confirming that appropriate safety measures are in place before work begins.
2. Project supervisor
Responsible for planning operations and hazard prevention. Explain and rehearse duties, responsibilities, work methods, and hazard prevention methods to be in accordance with the specified plan.
3. Helper
Monitor and observe the behavior of workers in confined spaces and take action according to the procedures in case of emergency.
4. Workers in confined spaces
Must be aware of potential hazards during work, strictly follow the work procedures specified in the confined space work permit, and wear the specified personal safety equipment throughout the work.
Compliance with the roles and responsibilities of this “4-person system” is in accordance with the law to ensure safety when working in confined spaces.
summarize
Working in confined spaces is highly risky but can be prevented if strict safety measures are followed. Gas and oxygen levels are monitored, personal protective equipment is used, emergency plans are developed and a system of permits to work in confined spaces is in place. Training and preparation of workers is essential for everyone's safety.
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