Confined Spaces
Confined spaces are enclosed areas where space and accessibility are limited
Poor air quality, complex rescue provision and hazardous substances are potential hazards that can be encountered while operating within confined spaces. Vertex’s confined space teams hold both the experience and qualifications required to succesfully work in this type of enviroment. All of Vertex’s confined spaces projects are meticulously planned and risk assessed by competent SMSTS project managers; and all of our operatives are suitably trained to operate within these challenging situations and tight spaces, completing the required work to the highest standards.
Confined Space Silo Survey
Confined Space Rope Access Tank Lining Repairs
Confined Spaces
Difficulty in accessing confined space areas carries additional health and safety risks to usual working environments. These risks, which extend much further than limited space, can include:
Generally confined spaces have a decreased air quality due to lack of free-flowing air. Toxic gases from the use of machinery and equipment can accumulate. Presence of these gases and lack of oxygen can be fatal, increasing the risk of unconsciousness and fire/explosion.
Confined Space CCTV Survey
Due to the nature of confined spaces they often lack adequate lighting. Work activities and equipment may also produce smoke/particles which can further decrease visibility.
Water levels within confined spaces such as culverts, wells and manholes can quickly alter, posing a risk of drowning and entrapment to any operatives working within.
Ambient Temperature inside confined spaces often vary in comparison to those in open air. Coupled with the use of breathing apparatus this can provide physical limitation on the human body so work times are restricted.
A combination of the above difficulties can provide an unfavourable working environment, but at Vertex Access our team can help you combat this. Along with being IRATA qualified our operatives have specific confined spaces and rescue training, giving them the knowledge and skills needed to work safely and undertake rescue in confined spaces.
Before entering the confined space, thorough risk assessments take place, evaluating the precautions and measures needed for safe working. We always work with a ‘top man’ who can manage, monitor and communicate the working methods, along with keeping track of both entry and exit to the confined spaces.
Confined Space Access
Rope Access in a confined space
We provide specialist breathing equipment which minimises any risk of inhaling hazardous gases, whilst gas monitors constantly analyse the atmospheric air for any change which could prove dangerous. Rescue provisions and equipment such as rescue kits, emergency breathing apparatus, 2 way radios and personal alarms are included in every job maintaining ultimate safety and peace of mind should any emergencies arise.
Working in confined spaces such as culverts, silos, shafts, pits, industrial vessels, air vents and pipework, we can undertake many types of works such as cleaning, maintenance, inspections and repairs.
To discuss your confined space access needs and requirements please call 01709 379 453 or email info@vertexaccess.co.uk
