Confined Space Training -- Do You Need It?
If you're newly self-employed or about to start a job in a new field, you may be wondering what courses you should take so you can carry out your work duties safely. In a search for work safety courses, you may have encountered confined space training courses. You may be questioning whether such a course is necessary for you. If this is you, read on for more information.
What Is a Confined Space?
A confined space is not determined just by its size. It's also determined by the hazards associated with working within a particular situation. A confined space can be partially or fully enclosed. If you are likely to be doing work in any of the following areas, then a confined space training course is necessary.
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An area that's not intended to be occupied by a person.
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An area that is a risk to health and safety because it has an atmosphere that doesn't have a safe oxygen level.
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An area where there are contaminants such as airborne dust, gases and vapours that have the potential to cause a fire or explosion and thus an injury.
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An area that has dangerous concentrations of airborne contaminants.
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An area where work carried out can generate dangerous levels of airborne contaminants.
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An area that is at risk of engulfment.
What Will a Confined Space Training Course Teach You?
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Confined space training will help you to identify what constitutes a confined space and make you aware of the hazards you can expect to find in such environments. Increased awareness of potential and actual dangers encourages you to be more alert and to exercise due caution.
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Confined space training will make you aware of the importance of atmosphere testing and help you best identify the equipment you'll need to have with you to work safely in the space. You'll be better equipped to get in, complete the work needed, and get back out safely.
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Confined space training will make you aware of emergency procedures you should have in place should an accident occur.
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Confined space training will make you aware of the legal obligations, qualifications and training you should have before undertaking work in a variety of situations. You'll know what jobs you can accept and what jobs you might need to turn down based on your level of education and skill set. It will also help you identify people who are qualified to work with you should you require assistance.
