HOW DO YOU DEFINE A CONFINED SPACE?

Silos, cisterns, tunnels, manholes, and ventilation systems.
We often speak of confined spaces, rightly imagining enclosed, tight places difficult to enter.

But not all places that correspond to the definition of “confined space” are enclosed. For example, it also refers to a water system with open-air tanks that require work.

So what defines a confined space?

The two regulations that currently speak and give indications on working in confined spaces in Italy are Legislative Decree 81/08 and Presidential Decree no. 177/11 (specific decree for the qualification of workers).
Unfortunately, despite the fact that almost eleven years have passed since this measure, there are some unresolved critical issues such as the unambiguous definition of these confined environments and the lack of certified indications for the professional training of the personnel involved. Three fact sheets published by INAIL in 2020, prepared by the Machinery and Work Equipment Laboratory of the Institute’s Department of Technological Innovations (DIT), seek to shed some light on this issue.

Although, as we said, the lack of an unambiguous definition is one of the critical issues of the measures in force, somewhat due to the experience gained in this area over the years and the interpretation of the aforementioned regulations, we could define the peculiarities that, if present, characterise confined spaces:

1. fully or partially enclosed environments,
2. not designed for permanent or prolonged occupation,
3. which have restricted, small and/or difficult access/exit,t
4. hat could pose a danger to anyone involved for one of the following reasons:
   1. Atmospheric hazard or insufficient natural ventilation;
   2. Materials or substances it contains;
   3. Other risks closely related to the first two.

Why work in confined spaces?

Although these confined environments are dangerous and are not intended to accommodate humans permanently or for a long time, they still need maintenance, cleaning and repairs. All operations that require workers to physically be there.

These are therefore confined environments where it is precisely the operators who, while working, expose themselves to the danger of death and/or injury and it is precisely for this reason that the management of confined spaces must be well organised, clear and defined.

It is essential that in companies every confined space is well identified and identifiable with a special distinctive sign.
For each of them it is very important to draw up a management and safety plan in which the procedures to be implemented before the operator enters, during entry, work and exit from the confined space are given. An even more fundamental aspect to be addressed in the plan is that related to the procedures and manoeuvres through which, in case of need, helping and possible rescue of a worker is expected.

Who can work in confined spaces?

According to the provisions of Presidential Decree no. 177/11, article 2:

any work activity in the field of suspected pollution or confined environments can only be carried out by companies or qualified self-employed workers in the possession of appropriate requirements.The article then goes on to specify the list of these requirements, also talking about appropriate information, instructions and training of all personnel specifically aimed at understanding the risk factors of these activities.
It continues with the fundamental requirement related to the possession of PPE, instruments and work equipment suitable for the prevention of the risks inherent in the work activities carried out in confined spaces.

Once in possession of these requirements and therefore able to work in these confined environments, as further protection (but at the discretion of the safety managers), it would also be appropriate to issue specific permits for each individual activity in each confined space. These permits would prove the worker is has been trained and informed and contain a wide range of information about the work: from the worker’s personal data, to the specifications of the work that will be done, to the results inherent in checking air quality, to the description of the potential risks and a check-list of the steps to be followed for each circumstance that may arise (including a rescue operation).

What should I do in the event of an accident?

Entering and working in a confined space always requires the participation of 2 or more operators and never of a single operator.
In principle, the first thing to do in case of an accident is that the operator outside the confined space calls the rescue, the National Health Service (118) or the Fire Department. Contrary to what you think and to the first instinct that would come on the moment, the entrance into the confined space to help the injured is the last option to have to implement and only in rare cases.
The second operator, after having warned the rescuers, must then make sure that the operator is conscious and understand if he is able to leave the space independently. Only if not will have to implement (always staying outside the confined space), the rescue operations under its responsibility, which is listed in the security program. This is why it is essential to read it carefully and compulsorily before each intervention.

What devices do you need to work in a confined space?

Starting from the essential PPE for safe work (suitable harness, safety helmet, suitable shoes, retractable lifeline and winch), a key aspect to evaluate concerns the choice of a safety system to use throughout the operation.

Depending on how the workplace is arranged, the appropriate safety system, its fixing if necessary or the configuration with self-supporting systems must be decided.
Working in confined spaces in itself represents a very high risk for a worker for which, in addition to suitable training, information and instructions, the choice of the systems to which to entrust one’s life also becomes extremely important.

Innova is a company specialised in this category of devices and has many years of experience in this field. The XTIRPA catalogue offers multiple high-quality and robust solutions, with products that are very simple to assemble, install and use: floor fixed bases, fixed and adjustable wall mounted bases, H-shaped bases, systems for horizontal access and self-supporting bases that do not require fixing. For each base, it is possible to choose davit arms of different lengths in order to be able to cover every possible distance or situation.

Are you unsure whether your specific situation falls within the confined space legislation? Ask us for a free consultation, we will be happy to evaluate the best solution with you!