Are you aware of how dangerous it can be to work in a confined space?
When we don’t have a fear of something, it’s often easy to dismiss the danger and risks of the environment we work in. Plus, it can be easier to trust other people too much and not be aware of things we should be doing ourselves to keep everyone safe.
The truth is, there’s a number of people every year that are killed or seriously injured when they haven’t paid attention to the dangers of working in confined and enclosed spaces.
That’s why it’s important now more than ever to know the facts and how you can stay safe in your job. Your life’s on the line.
That’s where a confined space course can help. This is going to provide your employees with everything they need to know before they enter an enclosed space to carry out their job. After all, the health and safety of your employees is paramount.
Risks you face
This section reminds employees how many people are injured and killed every year from working in confined spaces, over a range of industries.
It raises awareness that 60 per cent of the deaths are those that are sent on rescue missions to save people that’ve become trapped. This opens your eyes to the real dangers of confined spaces.
Of course, this section also defines a confined space – being a place enclosed or where there’s hazardous substances or conditions nearby. The cartoon visuals show easy ways to identify confined spaces, as well as pointing out the less obvious danger lurking.
The voice-over reiterates that atmospheric hazards are the ones to watch out for the most. This includes toxic gases and flammable materials being lift threatening. It raises awareness of dangerous conditions already being present, but some are caused by working.
Real people real consequences
This section gives real-life examples of accident stories that have occurred in confined spaces.
This includes a story about two Scottish sea farm workers and one of them collapsed due to low oxygen levels. Two colleagues trying to help tragically died. This demonstrates the real dangers of working in hazardous conditions and how this include could’ve been avoided.
How to stay safe
This is the important part of the course. It points out that entering confined spaces should be avoided if possible. Otherwise, training should be provided so employees know what they are doing before entering a dangerous place, as well as having the right equipment.
There must be plans in place beforehand and emergency arrangements in case something goes wrong. You should consider, how you’ll communicate with a person in a confined space to confirm they are okay and how they can be rescued if they are in danger.
Dos & don’ts
You’ve got to be aware of the risks you are exposed to when you’re in a confined space. In addition, the person doing the work should be trained and competent enough to do the job, as well as have all the equipment they need.
This section also outlines what you shouldn’t do – this includes avoiding confined spaces where you can and don’t ignore the risks or the potential for hazards to occur for you and your colleagues.
Takeaway
This section summarizes how confined spaces can be dangerous places for employees and that you shouldn’t take risks for any reason.
Commitment to work safely
The last section leaves employees with the thought-provoking question of what they can do differently to stay safe at work.
Why is a confined space course important?
Providing e-learning courses on confined spaces shouldn’t be underestimated. Health and safety is a top priority for employers and a simple course can go a long way to saving lives.
If your employees know how to tackle the risks and dangers, as well as being prepared for working in confined spaces, this will minimize the risk of injury or death.
Dangers are always worse when you’re in a space you can’t easily get out off. The quicker you provide access to courses on confined spaces, the safer everyone’s going to be.
