Confined spaces like tanks, sewers, pipes and access shafts aren't designed for human inhabitation. The risks are high, and the hazards are many. Workers may be in danger of toxic atmospheres, oxygen imbalance, flammable conditions and physical hazards like engulfment and entanglement, depending on your site and task-specific applications.
Essential safety elements made easy with the expert
There are stringent rules and regulations around working in confined spaces. Companies are required by law to consider things such as:
- The safety of the atmosphere
- The safety of the entry and exit point
- The provision of an easily implemented rescue plan
- The safety of both the entrant and standby person
Are your company's confined spaces being managed safely?
While there is plenty of direction given in formal documents such as the Australian Standard - Confined Spaces (AS 2865-2009) and Codes of Practice, it can still be daunting and time-consuming. That's why our Blackwoods Safety Specialist Team has partnered with MSA to use their combined expertise across all industries to provide you with bespoke solutions.
Gas Detection
Gas detection plays a crucial role in your safety strategy. MSA's wide variety of portable gas monitoring solutions detect toxic gasses, combustible gasses, and oxygen deficiency/enrichment both before entry and during occupation of the confined space by workers.
Gas detection often involves time-consuming administrative work and reporting. The MSA Grid offers a solution by
streamlining and centralising your gas detection management. With the MSA Grid Fleet Manager, you can reduce disruptions, manage your portable gas detectors more proactively and efficiently, and maintain a unified record system for all your detection activities with all data instantly streamed to the cloud.
Safe Entry and Exit
Given the nature of confined spaces, the entry and exit are not always simple and require specialised equipment and fall protection measures. MSA's range of tripods, harnesses, winches and safe retrieval kits are durable, versatile and easy to use. They will ensure your workers can access the space safely and get our fast in case of emergencies.
A Plan to the Rescue
With MSA's vast experience in rescue planning, rescue teams need to be ready to react swiftly and effectively. A solid and well-rehearsed rescue plan is a WH&S requirement and can be the difference between life and death.
Keeping the Whole Team Safe
The safety of both the entrant and the standby person relies heavily on thorough planning and a risk assessment. MSA are there to assist with identifying potential hazards, deciding on necessary safety measures and ensuring both the entrant and the standby person are fully trained on the procedures and risks.
Hugh Martel at MSA Safety Explains, “The MSA Connected Work Platform builds connections between workers and worksites, providing actionable data that helps safety managers create safer and more efficient work environments.”
