Risk Assessment for Confined Spaces

A Confined Space is any space where due to being enclosed there are specified risks, these can be Manholes, Pipelines, Tanks etc.

Carrying out a Risk Assessment for proposed works within a confined space is the only way to check all possible risks associated by the work and type of confined space

and to establish controls to reduce those risks. The example below covers the basic risks and the controls required. Once the Risk Assessment has been completed it’s a good idea

to write a safe work method statement and use this alongside the risk assessment to brief all persons involved.

This example can be purchased in its complete form HERE  

Activity-what is the Hazard?Harm: who or what?What are you already doing To reduce Risks?
Loss of consciousness due to gas/lack of oxygenAll persons entering a confined spaceFully trained confined space trained persons only.
  Use of Fully up to date calibrated gas detector
  Use of escape sets, winch and harness with fully trained “top” persons who are strong enough to winch unconscious persons up to air fresh air.
Previous Contents: – Information about previous contents required, has space been cleaned.Persons entering and near to work area.
Residues:- Chemicals, rustAll persons entering a confined spaceAssume disturbance of residues, ensure safe system of work.
Contamination:-Possible leakage from adjoining installations etc.All persons entering a confined spaceGas detection, Checking possible storm water ingress. Check work area by competent person.
Oxygen deficiency/enrichmentAll persons entering a confined spaceTest the work area air using calibrated detector.
Physical dimensions of confined spaceAll persons entering a confined space  Assess the size of work areas as ventilation methods may vary. Possible contamination of air from exterior operations considered (e.g. welding, cleaning chemicals.
IsolationAll persons entering a confined space  Safe system of work to check that substance’s From nearby processes are prevented from entering the confined space. This can include shutting and tagging valves etc.