Confined Spaces: What They Are, & Why You Need Confined Space Training
What is a confined space?
Confined spaces are enclosed or partially enclosed structures that pose a danger because they are not designed or intended to be areas occupied by people. Confined spaces are commonly found in storage tanks, silos and dry and wet wells.
What 3 things make a confined space?
A ‘confined space’ means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that:
- Is not designed or intended to be occupied by a person
- 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
- Is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety
Is a confined space considered high risk work?
In short, yes. Working inside a confined space presents a whole heap of risks, which makes it a high-risk activity. As such, you must be qualified to work in a confined space, and have the appropriate safety equipment and training.
Hazards to be aware of in confined spaces
There are many hazards to be aware of when working in a confined space including airborne contaminants, the potential for fire or explosions from flammable vapour, lack of oxygen, temperature extremes, extreme noise, and restricted movement and access.
Note, this is not an exhaustive list – as every confined space is different and will present its own potential hazards and challenges.
What do I need to do before working in confined spaces?
Contractors must provide training for those who may be involved in the permit-required confined-space process. Training must be conducted before employees are first assigned duties relating to confined spaces or if there is a change in their assignments.
Equip-Safe’s Confined Space and Gas Test Atmosphere training will provide you with the knowledge and skills you will need to work in confined spaces and use gas testers before entering and when in a confined space, in accordance with industry requirements.
How much does confined space training cost?
The cost of confined space training varies based on the type of training required. See below for the prices of our confined space and confined space and gas test atmosphere training courses:
- One day confined space training and assessment: $225.00
- Refresher confined space training and assessment: $150.00
- One day confined space and gas test atmospheres training and assessment: $295.00
- Refresher confined space and gas test atmosphere training and assessment $220.00
Note: An existing Statement of Attainment, that is not older than two years, must be presented to Equip-Safe as proof of previous training for the above refresher courses).
How long is a confined space ticket valid for in australia?
Technically, a confined space ticket doesn’t expire. However, most employers will require you to renew your training every two years. We recommend that you renew your training every two years as well, to stay up to date with any relevant legislation, and changes within the industry.
Book your confined space training today
Confined space training – whilst not mandatory – will set you up with skills that will prepare you for jobs which may require you to enter a confined space. This may be as simple as a roof space, or something as elaborate as an underground mine shaft.
Our confined space and gas test atmospheres course will prepare you for any confined space you may find yourself faced with, and also make sure you can take related work when it comes your way. It is a worthwhile investment for the future of your business.
Get in touch with the friendly team at Equip-Safe to learn more about our confined space training or book a course today.
