Confined Space Entry: Alternatives Technologies and Avoiding Entry

Confined Space Entry Part 1 by Robert Brown

confined space entry I have never actually entered a confined space, and to be honest, I have never really wanted to. I have, however, been responsible for ensuring the safe and effective entry into literally hundreds (probably thousands, but that makes me old) of confined spaces. One thing is for certain- the safest confined space entry is no entry at all! The purpose of Part 1 of this article is to review the various reasons that one may have for entering confined spaces, and then, in Part 2 to offer a variety of alternative technologies and approaches for avoiding entry into confined spaces in the future. While it is unlikely that all organizations can eliminate the need for confined space entry, it is very likely that many organizations can at least reduce the frequency of entry into confined spaces.

Definitions

Let’s begin by reviewing the definition of a confined space. A confined space is “A space that is large enough and configured in such a way that an employee can enter and perform assigned work. It also has limited or restricted means of entry or exit (e.g., tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits are spaces), and is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.” The implication of the definition is that entrants into a confined space where hazards are present have greater risk due to the work conditions. With that as a basis for our discussion, let’s proceed. (Note: Although this definition of a confined space is based on United States regulations, the premise still applies).

Reasons for Entry

There are many reasons why confined space entry may be required (at least at first glance). Some of these might include:

Product removal: A site may have to remove a product from a tank, silo, vault, or similar confined space for reprocessing, or, there may be a need to change out production to a different product. Spills: Spills or releases may flow to vaults, sewers, catch basins, pits, or similar confined space locations.
Maintenance: Confined spaces of all types may require entry in order to perform repairs, complete inspections (regulatory, post incident, and or good engineering practices), provide for new installations, etc.
Cleaning: Cleaning may be required for decommissioning of equipment, as a follow-up to product removal or spills, or in preparation for maintenance activities.

Why NOT to Enter Confined Spaces

Despite the many reasons why confined space entry may be required, there are overriding reasons why NOT to enter. Consider, for example:

Chemical exposure: Many entries are into confined spaces containing, or formerly containing, hazardous chemicals. Obviously, work in an area with reduced natural ventilation increases the potential for exposure through inhalation, and due to the nature of the confined space, physical contact may be more likely as well.
Physical hazards: Entry into confined spaces can subject the entrants to entrapment, engulfment, mechanical hazards, heat, cold, and a host of other hazards.
Equipment requirements: Confined space entries require the use of specialized equipment, including extraction devices and other rescue equipment. Much of this specialized equipment is of no use for other workplace activities.
Personnel requirements: A safely performed confined space entry will require at least 3 persons, and possibly more. Other personnel, including those assigned to confined space rescue services, will necessarily be on standby. The overall commitment of employee resources for these activities can be quite significant.

Part 1 Summary

Specialized equipment, changes to procedures, non-entry by design, and customized/creative approaches, can all eliminate or reduce the frequency of the need to enter confined spaces. In Part 1 of this article we have looked at the definition of a confined space and discussed why NOT to enter and the various hazards associated with confined space entries. Part 2 will focus on alternative and creative approaches to avoid confined space entries. Keep in mind that just because it has always been done this way, does not mean it must be done this way in the future. I know that you cannot wait for Part 2; watch for it soon!

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