Working in a confined space, which has limited means of entry and exit, poses higher risk scenarios as workers often have to rely on the support of their other work colleagues to help save them from dangerous situations. Equally, risks when working in confined spaced entry sites, specifically sewage treatment plants, aren’t always visible to the human eye.
The presence of hazardous substances such as chemicals, bacteria and pathogens in sewage treatment plants can cause a range of difficulties for workers such as skin irritation, infections and even respiratory problems. Additionally, these environments may have poor ventilation and toxic gases like, hydrogen sulphide or methane, which could potentially cause asphyxiation or explosions.
The array of dangerous risks mean that it is ever more important that site managers and their workers are not only equipped with the most appropriate PPE and gas detectors for their working environment, but also that the equipment is used correctly to help ensure the safety of those working in the sewage treatment plant.
What are the challenges faced when working in confined spaces?
As well as atmospheric hazards, working in confined spaces brings other physical and verbal challenges which can hinder worker safety on-site.
- Limited Communication – Communication can be difficult due to the confined space, which may affect all types of communication between workers. Another way this can be impacted is due to noise levels from equipment in operation, creating additional background sound which can be louder than a voice may be able to carry.
- Restricted Movement – Confined spaces most often have limited space for movement, making it challenging for workers to manoeuvre and perform tasks safely. This restriction can increase the risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations.
- Delayed Emergency Response – In the event of an emergency, such as a gas leak, accessing and evacuating workers from confined spaces can be time-consuming due to limited entry and exit points. And in addition to the limited point of entry, emergency responders may face difficulties reaching and extracting individuals from confined spaces leading to delays in rescue operations.
- Reduced Visibility – Poor lighting conditions and confined space dimensions may limit visibility, making it challenging for workers to identify hazards or perform tasks accurately. It can also increase the risk of accidents and injuries, especially when working with machinery or hazardous materials.
It’s because of these various challenges that confined space working, like on sewage treatment plants, requires comprehensive safety protocols, proper training, effective communication systems and emergency response procedures that are tailored to the specific hazards and constraints of these spaces. Regular risk assessments and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of workers in confined environments.
Steps to take when a gas detector warns of a leak
The elimination of potential gas hazards in confined space working environments is practically impossible, which is why workers must rely on dependable gas monitors and gas analysers to help protect themselves, and others, on the job site.
- Alert Others: The moment a gas leak is suspected or detected, it’s imperative to alert all personnel within the vicinity. Use whatever means of communication available—be it audible alarms, radio communications, or verbal notifications—to ensure the message is conveyed quickly and clearly. Establishing a clear signal for evacuation can prevent panic and ensure an orderly exit.
- Evacuate the Area: Everyone in the affected area should evacuate immediately, following pre-established safety protocols and evacuation routes. It’s essential that these routes are clearly marked, well known to all personnel, and free from obstructions at all times. During evacuation, maintain a calm demeanor to prevent panic, and assist others who may be disoriented or require help.
- Ventilate the Area: If it is safe to do so, attempt to ventilate the area to disperse any toxic gas detected. This can involve opening doors, windows, or activating ventilation systems specifically designed for emergency use. However, this step must only be taken if it can be done without risk of ignition of flammable gases or exposure to toxic substances. The aim is to reduce the concentration of the gas, thereby lowering the risk of health complications and explosion.
- Do Not Return: Under no circumstances should anyone re-enter the area until it has been declared safe by professionals with the appropriate expertise. Gas concentrations can remain dangerously high even after they are no longer detectable by smell or other basic senses, and the area might also be structurally unsafe.
- Seek Medical Attention: Individuals who were in the vicinity of the gas leak should seek medical attention if they exhibit any symptoms of gas exposure, which can include, but are not limited to, dizziness, nausea, difficulty breathing, or headaches. Early symptoms can worsen rapidly, so immediate medical evaluation is crucial, even for those who feel only slightly affected.
- Investigate the Source: After the area has been declared safe by competent authorities, a thorough investigation into the source of the gas leak should be conducted. Understanding the cause of the leak is essential for implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence. This step often involves reviewing the event on the gas monitor, checking equipment maintenance records, examining the integrity of gas storage and delivery systems and assessing adherence to safety protocols.
Gas leaks in confined spaces pose a significant risk, but the danger can be effectively managed through prompt and decisive action. Familiarity with these steps and regular safety drills can ensure that all personnel are prepared to respond appropriately in the event of a gas leak, minimising health risks and potential damage.
In such environments, where hazards are not always visible, the capacity to detect danger and communicate effectively is paramount. This is where advanced technologies come into play, providing an added link between workers and safety managers.
The ALTAIR io4, through its integration with MSA’s GRID platform, elevates worker safety by providing a level of connectivity that surpasses traditional gas detectors. This system transforms each device into a crucial communication node, ensuring instant awareness of any safety concerns—be it hazardous gas exposure, low battery alerts, or distress signals. Such seamless communication can help shorten response times to emergencies and enhance decision-making with comprehensive environmental analytics. Workers in confined spaces gain an added layer of security, backed by the continuous support and monitoring of real-time data, setting a new standard for workplace safety in challenging environments.
For organisations looking to enhance their safety measures in confined spaces, adopting the ALTAIR io4 and GRID platform can be a step towards more connected, informed, and responsive safety management.
