Working in confined spaces is a requirement for many industries across Western Australia, but to do this safely, you need specialised training.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about confined space training, including a definition of what confined spaces are, the risks involved, and how proper training can keep you safe. You’ll also learn about the industries requiring confined space certification and what you can expect from a confined space course.
Whether you’re in mining, construction, or utilities, this guide will help you understand the importance of safety and how to navigate confined spaces with confidence. Keep reading to learn how this training can benefit you and your career!
What are Confined Spaces?
The Confined Spaces Code of Practice issued by Safe Work Australia has the following definition of confined spaces:
“A confined space means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that: is not designed or intended primarily to be occupied by a person; and is, or is designed or intended to be, at normal atmospheric pressure while any person is in the space; and is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety from: an atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level, or contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts, that may cause injury from fire or explosion, or harmful concentrations of any airborne contaminants, or engulfment.”
Some examples include:
- Tanks
With limited airflow and the potential for harmful substances, tanks can be dangerous to enter without proper precautions. - Silos
Silos can have a buildup of dust, affecting the air quality. The risk of material shifting and possibly trapping anybody inside also adds to the danger. - Open Ditches
Ditches can fill with water, mud, or other materials, causing the risk of slips, falls, and possibly asphyxiation if someone gets trapped. - Vaults
With poor ventilation and the risk of harmful gases, vaults are dangerous spaces for workers. - Tunnels
Tunnels can be difficult to exit quickly in an emergency. There is also the risk of air quality issues or structural collapse. - Manholes
Manholes provide access to sewers or underground systems with the risk of falling or exposure to toxic gases.
Why Are These Spaces Hazardous?
Here’s why confined spaces should only be accessed by trained, risk-aware workers:
- Limited Access
Confined spaces often have tight entry and exit places. Getting out or conducting rescue operations in these areas can be complicated if something goes wrong. - Poor Air Quality
There may be restricted airflow in confined spaces, potentially leading to a buildup of harmful gases or a lack of oxygen. - Physical Hazards
In confined spaces, there is always the danger of slips, falls, or the risk of getting trapped. Workers inside are at risk of injury if materials shift or walls collapse. - Unpredictable Conditions
Each confined space is different. A trained worker will assess each situation, considering risk factors such as the materials stored inside, the environment, and even the weather before entering.
What are the Confined space risks
Proper training and preparation help keep you safe. Some of the dangers you may face include:
Fire and Chemical Exposure
In confined spaces, there’s a risk of fire or contact with harmful chemicals if the space has flammable materials or dangerous gases.
- Flammable materials
Flammable Equipment or materials pose a threat. - Toxic chemicals
Your workspace may contain chemicals capable of irritating your skin, eyes, or lungs; some can be even more harmful with prolonged exposure. - Explosions
A poorly ventilated space can increase the risk of explosive gases building up, which could lead to a fire or explosion.
Air Quality
Poor air quality and spaces with limited airflow can lead to a lack of oxygen or even dangerous gases.
- Oxygen deficiency
Some confined spaces don’t have safe, breathable air, with the risk of asphyxiation if you’re in there too long. - Poisonous gases
Gases like carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulphide can build up. Proper assessment and monitoring of risks may help you identify a problem before it’s too late.
Biohazards, Slips, Falls, and Getting Trapped
Confined spaces present physical hazards, too. They can be slippery, uneven, and challenging to navigate.
- Slips and falls
Floors may be wet or uneven, making slips a possibility. Falling in a tight, confined area can lead to injuries and the risk of being trapped, so getting help can be difficult. - Shifting materialsMaterials can shift unexpectedly, with the risk of being crushed or trapped.
- Biohazards
Confined spaces may contain biological hazards, like bacteria or fungi, which could affect your health, especially if you are not well-prepared with protective gear.
How to Identify Confined Space Hazards
When preparing to work in a confined space, always be aware of and ready for the risks involved.
Risk Assessment
Before entering a confined space, a risk assessment is essential for keeping yourself and your team safe.
- The environment:
Check whether the space is structurally sound, and look for signs of instability or damage, such as cracks in walls, loose equipment or water pooling in certain areas. - Chemical risks:
This includes gases, chemicals, or other materials with the potential to be harmful. - Air quality:
Especially if there is poor ventilation, test the air for oxygen levels and the presence of harmful gases before entering. - Access points:
Always check how easy it is to enter and exit the space in an emergency.
Tools and Techniques
You can use tools and techniques to make hazard assessment easier.
- Gas detectors:
These portable devices test the air quality. They can detect dangerous gases and alert you before you enter. - Personal protective equipment (PPE):
PPE can include breathing apparatus, harnesses, and specialised suits suitable for the environment you’re entering. - Visual inspections:
Look for and take note of anything unusual, such as loose materials, clutter, sharp edges, or even wildlife. - Communication tools:
Make sure you have reliable communication with someone outside the confined space in case you need to call for help.
Reducing Risks
Once hazards are identified, the risks are reduced, resulting in safer working conditions.
- Ventilation:
If the air quality may be poor, ventilate the workspace. You could use fans or ventilation systems to clear any harmful gases. - Training and procedures:
Make sure everyone on your team has been trained and knows the proper procedures for working in confined spaces. - Rescue equipment:
Have rescue equipment, such as harnesses and winches, nearby in case someone needs to be pulled out quickly. - Air quality:
Keep monitoring the air once you’re inside. Regularly check gas levels so conditions remain safe throughout the job.
What to Expect from a Confined Space Course
This section looks at what you can expect from the training to help you prepare for confined space work.
Practical Skills
Confined space training includes skills essential for safely navigating and working in confined spaces.
- Safe Entry and ExitCorrect methods for entering and leaving confined spaces include following safety protocols and checking for secure entry points.
- Risk AssessmentYou’ll learn how to assess potential risks before starting work.
- Using Protective EquipmentThe use of relevant personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, breathing apparatus, and harnesses to keep yourself and your team safe.
- Communication and MonitoringYou’ll learn how to use radios, alarms, and other monitoring tools to maintain contact with others outside during the job.
- Safety PlansA safety plan specific to confined spaces is part of the course, ensuring you are prepared for potential risks.
Prepare for Emergencies
Being prepared for emergencies is also a focus of the course:
- Emergency EvacuationYou’ll practice safely evacuating yourself and your team from a confined space in case of an emergency, such as fire or equipment failure.
- Rescue TechniquesLearn how to rescue somebody injured or trapped inside a confined space. This may involve using specialised equipment and working under pressure.
- Managing Air Quality Issues
Confined spaces can have poor ventilation, leading to a lack of oxygen or toxic gases. You will learn how to detect and respond to air quality issues.
Why Getting Your Confined Space Ticket in Perth Offers a Career Boost for You
The need for this type of specialised training has grown due to the various industries operating in Western Australia, particularly in sectors like mining, construction, and energy. Let’s examine why Perth is such an essential place for the working in confined spaces ticket and which industries rely on it.
Why Perth is a Hub for Confined Space Training
Perth’s booming industries, especially mining and construction, have a huge demand for well-trained, skilled, certified workers capable of working in confined spaces.
- Mining OperationsWestern Australia is known for its massive mining industry, which involves many jobs entering underground mines, ventilation shafts, or storage tanks in confined spaces.
- Construction ProjectsPerth’s construction workers are frequently required to access confined spaces such as maintenance holes, ditches, and vaults.
- Oil and Gas IndustryAnother major player in Perth. Offshore rigs and onshore plants have confined spaces like pipelines, tanks, and silos. These may have specific risks like gas leaks and fires, making confined space training essential.
Industries Requiring Confined Space Certification
Some of the industries where certification is vital include:
- ManufacturingWorkers in manufacturing often have to work in confined spaces, including areas like large vats, silos, and hoppers during equipment maintenance or cleaning.
- Utilities and Water TreatmentUtility company workers may be required to work in confined spaces, like vaults, wells, and pipes.
- Agriculture and FarmingIn the agricultural sector, there are confined spaces such as silos and storage bins, which workers may need to enter for cleaning or repairs.
- TelecommunicationsTechnicians often have to work in manholes or underground vaults to maintain or install cables. These tight, enclosed spaces have risks like slips, falls, or equipment malfunction.
Why You Should Choose KI Training and Assessing for Your Confined Space Course in Perth
At KI Training and Assessing, we’re proud of our reputation for providing top-quality training to help you stay safe and confident in high-risk environments. With years of experience in the industry, we understand the specific needs of workers in Perth, especially in sectors like mining, construction, and utilities.
Our confined spaces course is designed to give you the practical skills and knowledge to assess risks, handle emergencies, and work safely in confined spaces.
If you’re looking for a trusted, professional training provider in Perth, we’re here to help you stay safe, confident, and well-prepared for the job.
Contact us today to book your confined space training course!