shim
Confined Spaces



What are Confined Spaces and what does the law say?
A confined space is any space that has limited or restricted means of entry or exit, is large enough for an employee to enter and perform assigned work, and is not designed for continuous occupancy by the employee.

Examples are underground vaults, tanks, storage bins, pits, vessels, and silos. Generally, they have limited entry (usually a hatch or a manhole), are large enough for an employee to get inside, but are not really meant to be occupied by people. They may be poorly lit and contain hazardous substances or materials, and due to the unique nature of confined spaces and the difficulty involved in rescue operations the regulatory authorities set out stringent regulations regarding access and operations.

If the work cannot be performed outside the confined space then there should be strict adherence to the regulations and well-rehearsed operational and rescue procedures. Training is critical.   

What should I do if I need confined space entry at my workplace?
Read the regulations, develop a permit to work system for confined space entry, have your relevant people and supervisors professionally trained, and then conduct practice drills.

Can I get help? 
Yes. With confined spaces it is best to get professional assistance. Firstly, by using an confined space specialist training company and secondly by getting the confined space part of the operation risk assessed. The one company may be able to do both, and you can  You may need protective equipment. Find an external consultant in our Business Directory

Is there any free guidance material I can read on Confined Spaces?

Click on the link below for useful information?


Australian Capital Territory
www.ors.act.gov.au

New South Wales
www.workcover.nsw.gov.au

Northern Territory
www.worksafe.nt.gov.au

Queensland
www.deir.qld.gov.au

South Australia
www.safework.sa.gov.au

Tasmania
www.wst.tas.gov.au

Victoria 
www.worksafe.vic.gov.au 

Western Australia
www.worksafe.wa.gov.au 

 

Can I get help?
With confined spaces it is best to get professional assistance. Firstly, by using an confined space specialist training company and secondly by getting the confined space part of the operation risk assessed. The one company may be able to do both, and you can  You may need protective equipment.  

Is there any free guidance material I can read on Confined Spaces?

Click on the link below for useful information?

Australian Capital Territory
Safe Working in a Confined Space
New South Wales
Working Environment Hazards

Northern Territory
Confined Spaces

Queensland
Safe Working in Confined Spaces
South Australia
Confined Spaces
Tasmania
Confined Spaces
Victoria 
Shafts, Tunnels & Trenches 

Western Australia
Click Here
And refer to division eight of the OHS Regulations 

 


 

Friends in Safety

Alliance Interactive