Preventing Fires And Explosions In Confined Spaces

By Author: Belinda Rahme Barakat
Total Articles: 52
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Do you know working in a confined space is hazardous? Yes, many workers are injured and killed every year while working in confined spaces as they are one of the most dangerous places to work with. To effectively control the risk associated with confined space hazardous such as fire and explosion, a confined space hazard assessment control program and preventive measures like using flame and gas detectors should be installed in your workplace. All jurisdictions within Australia have regulations dealing with confined space entry. However, the regulations can vary from one place to another within the across. But, failing to follow the regulations can result in hefty fines and cancellation of license.

How Are Hazardous Controlled In The Confined Spaces?

Air Quality Testing and Proper Training

This is one of the first steps to preventing fire and other hazardous in confined spaces. The air within the confined spaces must be tested for the presence of hazardous, poisonous and flammable gases in the atmosphere before entering. Care must be taken to make sure the air is tested throughout the space to work in ...
... using flame detection and gas detectors. Using the detectors, the oxygen levels in the confined space could be monitored and ensure whether it’s in safe limit or not, detect the presence of poisonous gas, and ventilation equipment is operating efficiently.

However, the air testing must be ongoing from time to time depending on the work nature and the hazardous present in the atmosphere. This is because certain conditions can change while workers are inside the confined spaces and a hazardous space might be created based on the work activities. That’s it is crucial to monitor the air from time to time and make sure it’s safe to work.

It’s important to understand that some gases present in the atmosphere are heavier than air and can settle at the bottom of the closed spaces. So, it is necessary to test all the areas in the closed working spaces with properly calibrated gas and Flame Detector to determine the gases present in the confined spaces. If the testing reveals the presence of hazards, space must be well ventilated and re-tested to ensure the place is safe to work.

Apart from using the gas detectors and flame monitors, it is imperative to devise safety procedures for workers and provide induction and training. Emergency and rescue procedures should be rehearsed regularly and train the workers who work inside the confined space in your industry.