Confined spaces are defined by characteristics such as containment, enclosure, potential hazards, and the fact that they are not meant for continuous occupancy. Although a confined space may be small, it may or may not actually be “small”.
Examples of confined spaces include, but are not limited to, tanks, silos, tunnels, and vaults underground. What makes these areas dangerous is primarily due to the risk of having a poorly managed atmosphere, limited or difficult access, and lack of ability to move freely.
It is critical that all employers provide their employees in Ontario with the appropriate confined space training; it ensures workers can identify, evaluate, and control the risks associated with entering a confined space before proceeding inside.
Top Hazards Found in Tanks, Silos, and Tunnels
These confined spaces, when inadequately controlled, have significant dangers that can quickly escalate.
- Lack of Oxygen
When the oxygen concentration falls below the acceptable levels (less than 19.5%), the possibility of a worker losing consciousness (or dying) is highly likely.
This is typically due to the displacing action of other gases or as a result of a chemical reaction.
- Toxic Gases & Vapours
Exposure to certain gases or vapours, such as carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulphide, could cause poisoning, respiratory failure, or long-term health problems.
- Fire & Explosion Risks
If flammable gases/combustible materials exist, any small source of ignition (spark) may result in catastrophic consequences.
- Physical Entrapment
Inadequate entry points and shifting material (example: grain in silos).
- Poor Visibility & Limited Movement
Navigation, communication, and rescue-related problems due to a lack of visibility and restrictions to movement.
It is therefore indisputable that performing hazard identification is a required step in the entry into all confined spaces.
What to Expect in a Professional Confined Space Course
A professional confined space course provides both theory-based knowledge and hands-on safety skills to prepare workers for confined spaces.
Key Training Components:
Entry & Exit Permits
- Understanding of Entry Permit Requirements Needed to Enter a Confined Space
- Documented Hazards / Controls / Authorized Personnel on Site
Roles & Responsibilities
- Entrants, supervisors, and attendants
- Effective Communication Between All Workers
Attendant Duties
- Monitoring workers from outside the confined space
- Communicate 100% of the time with attendees.
- Enforce emergency procedures if needed.
Emergency & Rescue Drills
- To Simulate Rescue Situations
- Demonstrate Proper Usage of Rescue Equipment
- Coordination with Rescuers / Emergency Services.
Comprehensive training makes sure each worker is capable of performing their job efficiently under stressful work conditions.
Importance of Proper Atmospheric Testing
The testing of the atmosphere is very important to the safety of those entering and working in a confined space.
Employers have responsibilities to:
- The air must be tested prior to entry and remain continuously monitored throughout the duration of work.
- Detection of oxygen levels, hazardous gases, and combustible vapors
- Use calibrated gas detection devices.
The legislation in Ontario requires that confined spaces be tested and controlled to maintain safe atmospheric conditions prior to and during entry.
Without proper testing, an area that appears to be a “safe” area can become deadly very quickly!
Serving Ontario: Specialized Training for Your Industry
Every industry handles their own set of challenges when it comes to confined spaces. Construction, manufacturing, utilities, and maintenance all require specialised Confined Space Training.
Companies such as Trainability provide the following:
- Hazard-specific scenarios based on the industry
- Indoor or outdoor training across the province of Ontario
- Training that meets the Provincial Safety Regulations
- Hand-on practical sessions that prepare the participants for working in a confined space
For Mississauga and Greater Toronto Area businesses, localised training gives your staff the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to operate safely within Ontario.
Working in confined spaces can be one of the most hazardous conditions, but with proper training, it can be controlled as well.
By obtaining the Confined Space Training, you can:
- Safeguard your employees.
- Be compliant with OHSA in Ontario.
- Minimise liability and operational exposure
Do not leave safety up to chance.
Call Trainability now for onsite or in-class Confined Space Training to ensure your employees are prepared.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
An enclosed or partially enclosed area where there are hazards but not designed for people working inside continually.
Employees need appropriate training before entering or working with confined spaces.
Testing the atmosphere for adequate levels of oxygen, hazardous gases, and flammable material to ensure the air is safe for entry.
Employers must provide training, safety plans, and proper equipment, while workers must follow procedures.
Training should be renewed periodically, in particular, after significant changes in the workplace or changes to legislation.
