important! you must read this letter! · important! you must read this letter! thank you for...

IMPORTANT! You must read this letter!

Thank you for booking into the Enter and work in confined spaces (RIIWHS202D)

course. It is important that you read and study the Learner Guide before you attend

the course. The Learner Guide you have been provided with contains everything you

need to know to successfully complete the assessments during the course. It is

particularly important that you study and remember the points in ‘bold’ type.

While reading and studying the Learner Guide is mandatory, the amount of time

required to study will differ from one person to another. It is important that you allow

adequate time to digest the content of the Learner Guide. When you attend the

course you will be formally enrolled and required to sign a declaration that you have

studied the Learner Guide.

Please Note: To pass the written assessments you need to allow adequate time to

read and digest the contents of the Learner Guide before you attend the course.

We recommend covering the information several times until you feel confident.

When you attend the course, there will be a Question and Answer Session to allow

you to ask the Trainer things that you are not sure about. To make the most of this

time, make notes on what you would like to know more about.

After the Question / Answer Session, you will be required to complete the written

assessment which is open book; this means you will be able to refer to Learner

Guide during the assessment. The written assessments will be followed by practical

(hands on) training.

If you feel the course date you are booked into does not allow you enough time to

study the Learner Guide before you attend, we are happy to work with you. Please

contact us as soon as possible to reschedule your course to a later date. If you don’t

attend without rescheduling, you will forfeit the course fee.

Thank you again for your booking, we look forward to seeing you on your scheduled

training day. Should you have any questions, please give us a call – we’re here to

help.

KG Training and Assessing

ABN: 421 334 328 63

National Provider Number (RTO ID): 52112

Location: Unit 1/8 Day Road, Rockingham WA 6168

Postal Address: PO Box 2111Rockingham DC WA 6967

Ph: 08 9592 2535 Fax: 08 9592 2757

Office Email: [email protected]

Accounts Email: [email protected]

Web: www.kgtraining.com.au

Enter and Work in

Confined Spaces RIIWHS202D

Learner Guide

v - 2.7 Learner Guide - RIIWHS202D - CSE 1 / 30

This Handbook has been compiled by KG Training & Assessing, to this end nothing in this book should be

used to replace current Regulations, Site Regulations, or for that matter, common sense applying

to the job at hand at the time.

IMPORTANT PLEASE READ CAREFULLY This handbook is intended to be a guide to safer work practices in the use of industrial equipment.

The intention of this handbook is that it forms part of a formal training course. There is infinitely

more to safe use of industrial equipment than is contained within this handbook, and all

manufacturers’ instructions shall be adhered to.

Information contained within is based on Australian Standards and is only part of these standards.

A full inventory of Australian Standards can be obtained from Standards Australia.

While every endeavour has been made to check that information contained within is true and

correct, KG Training & Assessing Pty Ltd as far as is permissible by law shall have no liability

whatsoever for any loss, claim or damage arising as a result of information contained in or omitted

from this book.

All use of industrial equipment should be carried out in a safe efficient manner having regards for

standards and law in place where you are operating at the time.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Define and identify a confined space;

• Have understanding of the Australian Standard and relevant requirements of confined space entry;

• List the hazards associated with confined space entry;

• Describe hazard identification and risk assessment processes relevant to confined space work;

• State the entry permit procedure for confined space work; and

• Describe PPE and rescue requirements for confined space work


MODULE ONE

DUTY OF CARE

Each state and territory has its own OHS Act and in these various Acts is what is known as “duty of care”. This clearly outlines the responsibilities of all people in the workplace, in relation to the employer’s responsibilities for safety and training of personnel. What is more important to you, is your responsibilities for your own safety and the safety of others once you are trained.

Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act 1984 (Western Australia)

Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 (Western Australia)

EMPLOYERS

OSH Act-section 19 Mines Act-section 9

Employers must, so far as practicable, provide and maintain a working environment where their employees are not exposed to hazards.

General duties include:

• Safe systems of work

• Information, instruction, training and supervision

• Consulting and cooperating

• Supplying PPE

• Safe plant and substances

• Reporting of fatalities, injuries and disease

EMPLOYEES

OSH Act-section 20 Mines Act-section 10

Employees must take reasonable care for their own safety and health at work and avoid harming the safety and health of other people through any act or omission at work.

General Duties Include:

• Follow the employer’s safety and health instructions

• Using PPE

• Taking good care of equipment

• Reporting hazards

• Reporting work related injuries or harm to health

• Cooperating with employers so that employers are able to carry out their duties under the Act.

NOTE: At all times when performing confined space work, you must comply with commonwealth and state or territory O.H.S. legislation, mines legislation, codes of practice, guidance notes, Australian Standard.


PENALTIES

OSH Act Section 3A Mines Act Section 4A

Penalty levels defined (1) Where a person is liable to a level 1 penalty for an offence against this Act the person is liable — (a) if the offence was committed by the person as an employee —

(i) for a first offence, to a fine of $5 000; and (ii) for a subsequent offence, to a fine of $6 250;

(b) if paragraph (a) does not apply — (i) in the case of an individual —

(I) for a first offence, to a fine of $25 000; And (II) for a subsequent offence, to a fine of $31 250;

(2) Where a person is liable to a level 2 penalty for an offence against this Act the person is liable — (a) in the case of an individual —





(i) for a first offence, to a fine of $250 000 and imprisonment for 2 years; and (ii) for a subsequent offence, to a fine of $312 500 and imprisonment for 2 years;

REGULATIONS

MINES SAFETY AND INSPECTION REGULATION 1995

Reg 4.2 – Confined spaces, refers to AS 2865.

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH REGULATIONS

Reg 3.82 – Work in confined spaces, refers to AS 2865.


AUSTRALIAN STANDARD 2865

This is the major control document referred to when confined space work is conducted.

LEGAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS AS 2865-2.2:

Legal and other requirements governing the activities associated with confined spaces should be identified. This information should be kept current and communicated to all persons involved with confined spaces.

• AS 2865 – Confined Spaces

• Related Acts and Regulations

• Industry or organisational policies, procedures and standards

• Other criteria that may not always be legally binding but have evidentiary status such as approved Codes of Practice

• General Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws

• Authorisations, licences and permits

ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The accountabilities and responsibilities of persons whose tasks are associated with confined spaces should be identified and documented.

• Capacity to assign, control, delegate and review confined space procedures

• Identification and risk assessment of a confined space

• The issue and receipt of access authorities

• Stand by and emergency response

• Atmospheric testing and monitoring

• Training and competency assessment

• Assign key roles and responsibilities

• Outline the system for hazard/risk assessments and risk control

• Set out confined space entry requirements (eg: access authorities, entry permits and permits to work)

• Detail the safe systems of work

• List inspection, calibration and maintenance activities on confined space safety equipment

DEFINITION OF A CONFINED SPACE AS 2865-1.5.5

An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not intended or designed primarily for human occupancy, within which there is a risk of one or more of the following:

• An oxygen concentration outside the safe oxygen range.

• A concentration of a airborne contaminant that may cause impairment, loss of consciousness or asphyxiation.

• A concentration of flammable airborne contaminant that may cause injury from fire or explosion.

• Engulfment in a stored, free-flowing solid; or a rising level of liquid that may cause suffocation or drowning.


TRAINING AND COMPETENCY AS 2865-2.6

2.6.1 Training and Competency Assessment

The requirements for training and assessment of competency are as follows; a) All persons with tasks associated with a confined space shall be trained and assessed as

competent to conduct those tasks. b) Persons shall be reassessed at appropriate intervals to maintain their competency to

conduct tasks associated with confined spaces.

2.6.2 Records of training and competency

The training that is provided to persons and the achieved competencies shall be recorded.

NOTE: Additional guidance for the provision of training and competency assessment is given in appendix D.

CONFINED SPACE DOCUMENTATION AS 2865-2.9.1

Documentation should be established and maintained in a suitable medium, eg: in print or electronic form, and may include:

• The location of confined spaces in the workplace (eg: maps or registers)

• Isolation list

• Confined space risk assessment (CSRA)

• Tasks to be performed within the confined space (JSA)

• Safe Work Methods Statement (SWMS)

• Other Permits required for the tasks within the confined space

• Written Authority

OTHER PERMITS TO WORK

In addition to a confined space permit, you may also require the following:

• Permit to work

• Hot work

• High voltage vicinity

• Working at Heights

• Isolation

• Excavation

RECORD KEEPING AS 2865-2.9.3

The following documentation should be maintained, in accordance with organizational needs or with legislative requirements:

• The location of the Confined Spaces.

• Confined Space risk assessments.

• Procedures used for conducting tasks in or on the confined space.

• Training and competency.

• Confined spaces entry authorisations.

• Atmospheric testing and monitoring.

• Inspection, calibration & maintenance of confined space safety equipment.

• Reports related to any incident/accident associated with the confined space.


EXAMPLES OF CONFINED SPACES

CONFINED SPACE STATISTICS

• 80% of fatalities had entered the space many time before

• 64% of all fatalities were from unnecessary entry

• 60% of Confined Space fatalities were that of rescuers

• 27% had written procedures but were not followed

• 25% of the time the atmosphere was tested before entry

• 3% had Confined Space training

Pipe


MODULE TWO

PHILOSOPHY

• NO entry into Confined Spaces at any time, if the job can be done in another way which avoids confined space entry

• It is therefore essential that the risk assessment explores every opportunity to complete the task outside of the space

IF CONFINED SPACE ENTRY IS UNAVOIDABLE

• Entry requires special authorization as per AS2865 - 3.4.29

• A written authority is required. This is a document that gives permission for entry into a confined space and the conduct of tasks associated with the confined space. This is mandatory for every entry into a confined space as per AS 2865-1.5.23

NOTE: The written authority is sometimes known as an entry permit, access authority or permit to work

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PROCESS

• Risk assessment (including rescue plan)

• Isolation list

• Issue of Written Authority (Permit/Certificate)

• View the work area and confirm that all hazards have been identified and are controlled without creating any new hazards

• Only then can work begin in the Confined Space

RISK ASSESSMENTS

A risk assessment shall be undertaken by a competent person or persons before work associated with the confined space is carried out.

Documentation that could assist when compiling a risk assessment may include;

• Australian Standards 2865, 1576 & 1891

• Occupational Health and Safety Legislation

• Company Policies & Procedures

• Work Instructions

• Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)

CONFINED SPACE RISK ASSESSMENT (CSRA)

This risk assessment must be compiled for all confined spaces onsite and must include the following;

• The nature and inherent hazards of the confined space;

• Ventilation requirements;

• Communication methods;

• Gas testings and frequency requirements;

• Isolations.

• Emergency response procedures (Rescue Plan); o Rescue plan must be defined in the CSRA o The emergency services officer (ESO) coordinates the emergency response team (ERT) o Rescue plan must be tried and tested


CONFINED SPACE TASK RISK ASSESSMENT (JSA/JHA) AS 2865-3.3.1

This risk assessment is conducted by all persons involved in the specific confined space task, and should include;

• The tasks required to be conducted, including the need to enter the confined space

• The hazards of the confined space

• The range of methods by which the tasks can be conducted

• The hazards involved and associated risks involved with the actual method selected and equipment proposed to be used

• Emergency response procedures

• The competence of the persons to conduct the tasks

REVIEW OF RISK ASSESSMENT AS 2865-3.3.5

The risk assessment shall be reviewed and revised whenever there is evidence to indicate that there is a change in the risk.

HIERARCHY OF CONTROLS AS 2865-3.4.2

1. Elimination – totally remove the hazard

2. Substitution – substitute the hazard with something less hazardous

3. Isolation – isolate the hazard / energy

4. Engineering controls – use engineering controls to physically separate the person(s) from the hazard

5. Administration controls – use administrative controls such as procedures, training, signage

6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – use PPE as the last line of defence


MODULE THREE

RISK FACTORS

Factors to consider when undertaking a risk assessment of a confined space include the following as per AS 2865 – 3.3.2:

• Oxygen deficient atmospheres

• Asphyxiates

• Toxic atmospheres (Contaminates)

• Oxygen enriched atmospheres

• Flammable/explosive atmospheres

• Engulfment

OXYGEN DEFICIENCY

• Cause of most deaths in Confined Spaces

• From reactions such as oxidation (rusting or fermentation)

• From absorption into porous surfaces such as charcoal,

• From welding and oxy cutting, can also produce Carbon Monoxide, Ozone and other gases,

• From ingress of asphyxiate gases

• Disturbing wastes can expose pockets of gas or vapour, which can be trapped in elbows of pipe work

• Solvent cleaning, degreasing and spray painting may produce chemical vapours

• Rapid oxidisation processes – combustion

• Dilution – inert gases

• Absorption – grains, chemicals

• Physical activity

ASPHYXIANTS

Simple Asphyxiates displace oxygen in the air, e.g. Nitrogen, Carbon Dioxide, Natural Gas, Hydrogen and Inert Gases

Chemical Asphyxiates interferes with the normal function of the body, e.g. Hydrogen Sulphide, Carbon Monoxide and Hydrogen Cyanide SIMPLE CHEMICAL

• Carbon Dioxide • Carbon Monoxide

• Nitrogen • Hydrogen Cyanide

• Methane • Hydrogen Sulphide

SEPTIC TANKS

Atmospheric hazards that could be present in an old septic tank may include, but are not limited to;

• Oxygen deficiency

• Hydrogen sulphide

• Methane

• Biological matter


TOXIC ATMOSPHERES (Contaminants) AS 2865: 1.5.6

Any dust, fume, mist, vapour, biological matter, gas or other substance in liquid or solid form, the presence of which may be harmful to health and safety.

TOXIC GASES AND VAPOUR DENSITIES

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)

Carbon Monoxide effects the body, by attaching itself to the haemoglobin which can cause: SYMPTOMS - Headaches, drowsiness, irritability, reduced judgment, affects the nervous systems and fine motor skills, damage to the blood vessels in the heart, vertigo, vomiting, convulsions, coma or death.

CARBON MONOXIDE PROPERTIES

• It is colourless, odourless and tasteless

• Density approximately the same as air, therefore it can be found both high and low in enclosed areas

• Can be found wherever combustion occurs

HYDROGEN SULPHIDE H2s

Properties:

• Colourless gas, may have odour of rotten eggs

• Low odour threshold, however exposure can quickly deactivate your sense of smell

• Severe irritant to the eyes, coughing, shortness of breath


OXYGEN ENRICHED ATMOSPHERES

Oxygen enriched atmospheres can create explosive atmospheres due to the increased levels of oxygen present.

Enriched atmospheres can be created by:

• Leaking oxygen from stored oxygen supplies

• Gas cutting or heating equipment in proximity to or in the confined space

• Oxygen producing chemicals (Hydrogen peroxide)

Oxygen % Physiological Effect

> 23.5 Oxygen enriched atmosphere potential for violent reactions 20.95 Normal concentration in air

19.5-16 No visible affect

16-10 Increased breathing rate, accelerated heart-beat poor muscle coordination, faulty judgment and intermittent respiration, may realize life is at risk but do not care

10-6 Nausea, vomiting, unconsciousness, inability to move < 6 Difficulty breathing, convulsive movements, death in minutes

FLAMMABLE EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERES

COMMON FLAMMABLE GASES

• Methane • Ethane

• Propane • Butane

• Acetylene •

NOTE: All Gas cylinders other than those used for self contained breathing apparatus should be outside the confined space properly secured and upright or in a cage, bottles should be turned off and hoses removed when a confined space is not occupied. All hoses should be checked before use.

AS 2865 – 3.4.6 (a) Notes 2 Appendix F - F3 (g)(h)

ALLOWBALE FLAMMABLE AIRBORNE CONTAMINANTS IN THE ATMOSPHERE FOR ENTRY

LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMITS AS 2865-1.5.9.1

Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) – in relation to a flammable contaminant, the concentration of the contaminant in air below which the propagation of a flame does not occur on contact with an ignition source.

UPPER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT AS 2865-1.5.9.2

Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) – in relation to a flammable contaminant, the concentration of the contaminant in air above which the propagation of a flame does not occur on contact with an ignition source.


EXPLOSIVE RANGE

EXPLOSIVE LIMITS OF METHANE

• Flammable gas

• Asphyxiate

• Forms explosive mixtures with air

• Byproduct of gas processing, decomposing waste

ENGULFMENT

Is defined as the surrounding and effective capture of a person by a liquid or finely divided (flowable) solid substance that can be aspirated to cause death by filling or plugging the respiratory system or that can exert enough force on the body to cause death by strangulation, constriction or crushing.

The immersion or envelopment of a person by a solid or liquid (eg: grain, sugar, flour, sand, coal, fertilizer and any other substances in a powder or granular form) that is stored within the confined space.

Engulfment also includes a trench wall collapsing on workers within the trench.


South African Government News Agency

Date: 24 Feb 2009

The five workers were digging a tench five meters deep when excavated sand fell on top of one them. They were installing sewerage pipes at the site. His four colleages tried to assist him and get him out of the sand but the whole trench collapsed on them, killing them all instantly.

During preliminary investigations it was discovered that the employer had not registered the construction site with the Department of Labour.

A departmental spokesperson said that steps would be taken against the constructor should it be found that there was neglegence on his part, “peoples lives come first”.

The department has urged all employers and employees to ensure that their workplaces comply with the regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

ENVIRONMENTAL

The environmental impact of any work should be considered before, during and after any work is undertaken. Environmental impact may include but is not limited to:

• Hazard spills • Risk of fire • Noise control • Vibration of some plant • Dust emissions • Atmospheric emissions • Litter control • Recycling and reuse of waste


MODULE FOUR

ATMOSPHERIC CONTROLS

After opening the confined space the methods of ventilation that are required will be as per the CSRA. After the appropriate amount of ventilation an atmospheric test should be conducted to determine the condition of the atmosphere. The atmosphere needs to be within the following ranges;

• Safe oxygen levels (19.5% - 23.5%)

• Contaminants are below the relevant exposure standards

• Flammability level below 5% Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)

OTHER CONTROLS THAT MAY BE INITIATED TO ENSURE A SAFE ATMOSPHERE INCLUDE

• Initial and continuous gas testing requirements must be specified

• Ventilation from the Confined Space to a safe place

• Fume extraction requirements to a safe place must be defined in the CSRA

FLAMMABILITY

• Provision of fire protection from welding sparks or combustible materials

• Risks of chemical reactions must be considered

• Oils and greases may give off fumes as a result of hot work or in the case of fire

• Oils, grease and some materials may spontaneously ignite in oxygen enriched atmospheres

EQUIPMENT

AUTHORISED GAS TESTER

Authorised gas testers must ensure the confined space has a safe atmosphere for entry.

To do this they must ensure that the testing equipment is serviceable and calibrated to the manufactures specifications.

All persons who are required to operate this equipment are to be trained in all aspects of its use, which will include the following;

• Must have Confined Space Entry training

• The use, interpretation and calibration of the gas testing or monitoring equipment (Fresh air calibration, Bump test and 6 monthly NATA calibration)

• Have knowledge of the appropriate procedures to complete the task

NOTE: The authorised gas tester must ensure persons using the equipment are trained to monitor the equipment and report any changes


FRESH AIR CHECK (Sometimes Called Zeroing)

When the detector is first turned on it will give an audible and visual alarm display. The unit will then count down from a preset time (approximately 20-30 seconds). During this countdown, the unit is conducting a self-check of its operational status. It will display the target gas/gases range on the screen.

After the unit has done a self-check and before entering a hazardous area, a fresh air calibration should be conducted, some instruments do this automatically. As a Gas tester, it is important at this stage to ensure that the detector is in a clean air environment.

Conducting a fresh air check in a contaminated environment could lead to inaccurate readings and could be life threatening to the user.

BUMP/CHALLENGE TEST

A Bump or Challenge Test should be done at the start of each day of operation. Bump or Challenge Testing, tests for a response to a known gas concentration. It is done to ensure the instrument is operating within the specification, i.e. the gas detector has remained calibrated to its selected gas concentrations.

Ensure that each instrument is bump tested with the correct gas.

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) now known as Safety Data Sheet (SDS) are designed to give information on certain chemicals provided by the manufacturer;

These include:

• Manufacturer’s name and contact details

• Hazard identification

• Ingredient information

• First aid requirements

• Fire fighting measures

• Environmental response

• Handling and storage

• Exposure control

• The source for the allowable exposure standard for a contaminant e.g. TWA/STEL

EXPOSURE STANDARD AS 2865-1.5.10

Exposure can be defined as:

An airborne concentration of a particular substance in the person’s breathing zone

Exposure to this substance according to current knowledge, should not cause adverse health effects nor cause undue discomfort to nearly all persons.

The exposure standard can be of three forms and are measured in parts per million (ppm):

• Time-weighted average (TWA)

• Short-term exposure limit (STEL)

• Peak exposure limit


TIME WEIGHTED AVERAGE (TWA)

The airborne concentration of a particular substance when calculated over an eight (8) hour workday over a five (5) day week.

SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE LIMIT (STEL)

A maximum exposure to a substance of 15 minutes with a minimum of 1 hour between exposures. No more than 4 exposures to the substance in an eight (8) hour period (ie: 15 – 1 – 4 – 8).

PEAK EXPOSURE LIMIT

An exposure to a substance where the exposure should not exceed 15 minutes due to the peak airborne concentration levels

Additional Resource – MSDS Information Assessment

The following can be used at your workplace to assist with assessing relevant MSDS’s

Chemical Name:

Chemical Formula:

UN No:

Physical and Chemical Properties:

Appearance:

Odour Threshold:

Flammability Limits:

Auto Ignition Temperature:

Relative Density/Specific Gravity:

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Exposure Standards: TWA:

STEL:

Recommended PPE:

Reactivity:

Summary:


EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Persons shall be trained and assessed as competent to carry out their activities where they are involved in emergency response and first aid procedures.

EMERGENCY PRECAUTIONS INCLUDE

• Emergency procedures established

• Provision and location of rescue equipment including emergency services

• Wearing a harness for rescue

• Location of first aid equipment

• Provision of fire fighting equipment

EMERGENCY RESPONSE IF A PERSON IS EXPOSED TO A CONTAMINANT

• Raise the alarm via radio or emergency phone

• DO NOT enter Confined Space

• If the stand by person is able to reach the affected person, without entering the confined space, move casualty to fresh air if safe to do so

• If first aid trained DRSABCD until assistance arrives (Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, Compressions, Defibrillate)

• DO NOT walk the person around

FIRE PREVENTION AS 2865 APPENDIX F3

• Fire blankets wetted down

• Charged fire hose

• Portable fire extinguisher of appropriate type

• Fire watch


DESIGNS OF OPENINGS FOR RESCUE

Hazards involved in conducting tasks in a confined space should be minimised at the design stage and during initial installation of equipment.

REQUIRED ENTRY AND EXIT SIZE, AS2865-2.4.2

Openings for entry to and exit from a confined space shall be of adequate size to permit rescue of all persons who may enter the confined space.

• One entry having an aperture not less than 450mm long by 400mm wide, if rectangular, or not less than 450mm in diameter, if circular, or having major and minor axes not less than 450mm and 400mm, respectively, if elliptical [AS 2865 – Appendix (C) General Design Considerations, (C2) Means of Entry and Exit, (a)]

• Rescue plan developed with competent persons

• Rescue plan tried and tested

MODIFICATIONS TO A CONFINED SPACE, AS2865-2.4.3:

Any modification to a confined space shall not detrimentally affect the safe means of entry to, exit from, or the conduct of tasks in the confined space.


ISOLATIONS

ISOLATION REQUIREMENTS AS 2865 3.4.5

Prior to any person entering a confined space, all potentially hazards services (including all process services) normally connected to that space shall, where it is possible to do so, be isolated in order to prevent:

• The introduction of any materials, contaminants, agents or conditions harmful to persons occupying the confined space;

• The activation or energizing in any way of equipment or services that could pose a risk to the health or safety or persons within the confined space

• Stored energy

ISOLATION FACTORS AS 2865 3.4.6

Positive steps should be taken to achieve the following:

• Prevention of materials being introduced into the confined space through equipment such as piping, ducts, vents, drains, conveyors, services pipes or fire protection equipment.

• De-energisation and lock out

• Isolation of all other energy sources that may be external to, but still capable of, adversely effecting the confined space (eg: pumps, heating or refrigerating methods).

NOTE: Where it is not possible to isolate all potentially hazardous services, appropriate risk control measures should be in place.

EQUIPMENT ISOLATOR

• Must have a thorough knowledge of the isolation process and system.

• Conducts equipment isolations in accordance with the (hand written) Isolation Certificate or (document controls) Isolation Instruction.

• An Isolation Tag is locked to each point of isolation.

ISOLATION CHECKER

• Isolation Checker confirms the Certificate or Instruction is adequate for the scope of work on the Work Permit.

• Checks the isolated equipment against the Isolation Certificate or Instruction

PERMIT ISSUER

• Permit Issuer secures keys used in isolations inside a Permit Control Board, using a Permit issuer lock.


SIGNS AND BARRIERS AS 2865 - 3.2.2

Prior to any person entering a confined space, confined spaces should at all times be secured against unauthorised entry and, where practicable, permanently signposted. Signs should comply with AS 1319. When entry and exit to a confined space is required, signs and barriers shall comply with clause 3.4.29(f).

TYPICAL CONFINED SPACE SIGN

Signs should comply with AS 1319

TAGGING / LOCKING SYSTEMS

• Used to ensure the safety of all personnel working on, in or near plant and equipment and is a visual warning of danger to personnel

• Training in site tagging and lockout procedures

• Issued with company lock and personal danger tag

• Always adhere to the operating procedures for the placement and removal of tags and/or locks

• Personal danger tags can only be removed by the person who placed the tag


METHODS OF ISOLATION AS 2865-3.4.7

The acceptable methods for isolation of electrical, mechanical or fluid services are;

• Physical disconnection and blinding

• Line rated spades

• Locked double block valves with a bleed valve

• Locked single valve

LINE RATED SPADE OR BLANK SPECTACLE BLIND

DOUBLE BLOCK & BLEED

SINGLE VALVE ISOLATION & CAP

Gate valve open

locked and tagged


TEMPERATURE

• If and how weather will affect the Confined Space

• Forced ventilation and extraction may be required

• Radiation within the confined space from x-rays, radiation gauges, isotopes, lasers and welding equipment

• Time in the confined space as opposed to time out due to temperature

MANUAL HANDLING/TOOL USE

• Whether mechanical load shifting equipment is required

• Two person lifts

• Pneumatic tools

• Double insulated tools (intrinsically safe)

• Use of battery operated tools (where practicable)

OBSTRUCTIONS

• Access and egress, a safe system must be defined to include emergency situations (Is access big enough to allow rescue)

• Visual inspection from outside for loose roof material or hang-ups prior to entry

• Internal structures

• Agitators

• Introduced hazards, ie: hoses, leads and ventilation ducts

NOTE: Power leads, hoses and ventilation ducts to pass through an alternative entry or exit opening where available. These items entering through the same entry as personnel should be suspended to avoid obstructing the egress.

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT / LIGHTING

• Natural lighting should be used where ever possible

• Use of 32 volt lighting is preferable but not always practical

• Residual Current Device (RCD), Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) to be located outside the Confined Space (near the stand by person)

• Electrical equipment needs to be intrinsically safe (includes battery operated)

• Gas monitor must also be intrinsically safe

COMMUNICATIONS

Communication must be defined in the CSRA.

Continuous communication and, where possible, observation should be provided between those in the confined space and the stand-by person(s).

Minimum of two types of communication recommended:

• Voice

• Hand Signals

• Sight

• Radio

• Hard Wired Communications

• Life Lines

• Whistles


METHODS OF REDUCING HAZARDS

Procedures used to reduce hazards to confined space entrants include:

ESTABLISHING ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE PRIOR TO ENTRY – AS 2865 - 3.4.10

Many confined spaces are designed for a particular function and that may, or may not be at atmospheric pressure, eg: a pressure vessel.

Before entry is permitted to a confined space, control measures should be taken to establish and maintain atmospheric pressure within the space.

DRAINING - AS 2865

Initial cleaning should be conducted from the outside the confined space. This initial cleaning, including drainage and scale removal, should continue until the risk from the atmospheric hazards has been eliminated or reduced as far as possible. – Appendix G.

Provision of drain valves or other means of positive isolation in pipe work to reduce risk of possible pressurization and incursion or contaminants into the confined space. – Appendix C.

PURGING A CONFINED SPACE – AS 2865 - 3.4.11 & 12

Where necessary, the confined space shall be cleaned of contaminants by use of a suitable purging agent ie: gas (nitrogen), fluid (water).

The purging agent or any gas used for ventilation purposes shall not be pure oxygen, or gas mixtures with oxygen concentration greater than 21%.

Where required by risk assessment, barriers and signs should be erected to indicate exclusion / prohibition areas surrounding purging vents and openings.

Inert gases are often used to purge vessels of air contaminants and toxic gases.

CLEANING OF A CONFINED SPACE - AS 2865 – 3.4.13

• Where it is practicable, a confined space should be cleaned from the outside, therefore eliminating the need for entry.

• Where entry to a confined space is necessary for the purposes of cleaning, a written authority is required.

NOTE: Additional recommendations for the cleaning of confined spaces given in Appendix G. These include:

• Hydrojetting

• High Pressure Cleaning Equipment

• Steam Cleaning

• Abrasive Blasting

• Chemical Cleaning

NOTE: After draining / purging / cleaning the atmosphere must always be retested

MANAGING WASTE GENERATED BY THE CLEANING PROCESS

Workers must be aware of site environmental protection management plan for disposal of any wastes produced. These procedures may include:

• Spill cleanup kit

• Recycling

• Re-use

• Disposal


PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

CONFINED SPACE HARNESS

Confined Space harnesses have been designed to assist in maintaining the airway and reduce the profile of the casualty while performing a rescue at depth through a restricted opening.

A confined space harness can be differentiated from a fall arrest type harness by the following features:

• Double D rings – attached to the shoulders of the harness so that the wearer remains in an upright position when being rescued

• Wrist straps that can be used in conjunction with the spreader bar to reduce the profile of the casualty when they are being rescued

OTHER PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT (PPE) May include but not limited to;

• Respirator

• Dust mask

• Hearing protection

• Chemical overalls

• Elbow length impervious gloves

• Gloves (general)

• Eye protection

• As per site requirements

SOME LIMITATIONS COMMONLY EXPERIENCED BY THE USE OF PPE:

• Training required

• Increased temperature

• Obscured vision

• Restrictive movement

• Incorrect fittings (1 size does not fit all)

BREATHING APPARATUS

Advantages Limitation

Self Contained Breathing Apparatus

• Independent oxygen supply

• Positive pressure

• Provides limited cooling

• Limited oxygen supply

• Obscured vision

• Restricted movement


Long Line Breathing Apparatus

• Independent oxygen supply

• Positive pressure

• Provides limited cooling

• Hose caught on obstructions

• Obscured vision

• Hose a potential trip hazard


• Reliant on another person to maintain air supply


MODULE 5

ENTRY TO CONFINED SPACES

DEFINING ENTRY AS 2865:2009

• When a person’s head i.e. the breathing zone or upper body is within the boundary of the Confined Space

• Note: Inserting an arm for the purpose of the atmosphere testing is not considered an entry to a Confined Space

TYPES OF ENTRY

There are two types of entry for work in confined spaces, free entry and restricted entry.

FREE ENTRY

Conditions favourable to enter and work in a Confined Space without a breathing apparatus

RESTRICTED ENTRY

• Conditions require the use of an approved breathing apparatus and monitoring equipment

• Personnel must be trained in the use of the approved Breathing apparatus. BA can pose restrictions such as;

• Visual

• Physical restrictions because of hoses

• Increased breathing rate

NOTE: Free entry after ventilation is the preferred option

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY WRITTEN AUTHORITY

Written authority is required for all confined space entries and is sometimes known as:

• Entry permit

• Access authority

• Permit to work (Certificate for task)

NO PERSON SHALL ENTER A CONFINED SPACE UNLESS

• A review of the risk assessment has been completed in accordance with clauses 3.3.1 and 3.3.5;

• If a period of time greater than 30 minutes has lapsed since conducting the gas testing, a new gas test must be performed before entry.

• A written authority is provided to, or completed by, the person responsible for direct control of the task in the confined space;

• The written authority includes any risk control measures or precautions necessary, including the number of stand-by persons required, for the safe entry and execution of the work;

• They are advised of, understand and comply with the requirement of the written authority;

• A record of their presence in the confined space is maintained;

• Signs and protective barriers are erected to prevent entry of persons not involved in the task; and

• Appropriate and sufficient arrangements have been made for the initiation of emergency response and, where necessary, rescue of persons from the confined space.


• A copy of the written authority must be at the entrance of the confined space with the stand by person.

• Re-entry after absence: o Atmosphere has been re-tested o No new hazards are identified o Current controls are still in place o Written authority is current o Emergency personnel are available o Re-view written authority and risk assessment o Sign on to entry log

AS 2865-3.4.29

Note: Stand by persons and workers shall monitor and adhere to allocated entry and exit times stated on the written authority.

PERMIT HOLDERS RESPONSIBILITIES 3.4.29

The permit holder is in control of the confined space, all persons entering the confined space, all tasks carried out in the confined space.

PERMIT HOLDERS MUST ALSO ENSURE

• Ensures all persons entering the confined space must understand and comply with the written authority

• Ensures all persons entering the confined space must sign onto the written authority before entering the confined space, and on completion of the shift must sign off the written authority. The permit holder is the last person to sign on and sign off, to ensure all persons covered have signed on and signed off.

• Ensures all isolations are tagged and locked by the equipment isolator e.g. electrical, mechanical, fluid

• Ensures the standby person (s) understands the written authority and their role as the stand by person

• Ensures the gas tester understands the written authority and the conditions required in monitoring the confined space.

• Ensures all hazards have been identified • Ensures all controls are in place • Ensures all PPE required is available • Ensures all communications have been tested and is appropriate for the task

• Ensures a copy of the written authority is at the entrance of the confined space in a lock box and includes a copy of the isolation list, permits/certificates to work, hot work permits certificates.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY MONITORING AS 2865 3.4.30

Risk control measures shall require: a) Provision of a stand by person or persons; or b) Systems of work methods and controls that provide an equal or better safety outcome to that

provided by a standby person (see Clause 1.5.20)


SAFE ATMOSPHERE AS 2865 3.4.31

Before a person enters a confined space, and where it is technically feasible to do so, the atmosphere of the confined space shall have:

a) An oxygen safe range (19.5%-23.5%); b) Airborne contaminants that may cause impairment, loss of consciousness or asphyxiation

reduced to below the relevant exposure standards; and c) A concentration of flammable airborne contaminant below 5% LEL.

FLAMMABLE AIRBORNE CONTAMINANTS IN THE ATMOSPHERE; AS 2865 – 3.4.32

Where flammable airborne contaminants are present in the atmosphere of a confined space, the following requirements shall apply;

a) Except in case of emergency response, entry shall not be permitted where the concentration of flammable airborne contaminants in the atmosphere is 5% LEL or greater, or where the oxygen concentration of the atmosphere exceeds 23.5%.

b) Where persons have entered or are conducting tasks in a confined space and the concentration of flammable airborne contaminant in the atmosphere of the confined space has been found to be greater than 5% LEL and less than 10% LEL the person shall be removed unless continuous monitoring with a suitable calibrated explosive (flammable) atmospheric substance detector is used in a confined space at all times while persons are present.

c) Where the concentration of flammable airborne contaminate in the atmosphere of a confined space has been found to be 10% LEL or greater, no persons shall remain in the confined space.

ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS

Three contamination routes: 1. Inhalation 2. Ingestion 3. Absorption

Of these, the greatest danger for those in CSE work is that of inhalation.


THE ATMOSPHERE CONTAINS A NUMBER OF GASES AT VARIOUS CONCENTRATIONS:

The air we breathe in is made up of:

• 78.62% Nitrogen

• 20.84% Oxygen

• 0.04% Carbon Dioxide

• 0.5% Water

The air we breathe out is made up of:

• 74.5% Nitrogen

• 15.7% Oxygen

• 3.6% Carbon Dioxide

• 6.2% Water

Source: Guyton and Hall – Human Physiology

STANDBY PERSON

The standby person works under the direct authority of the permit holder and must periodically communicate with the permit holder on the status of the confined space.

The minimum number of stand-by persons should be recorded on the written authority.

Continuous communication and, where possible, observation should be provided between those in the confined space and the stand-by person(s).

The stand-by person shall:

• Periodically communicate with the emergency services officer (ESO)

• Ensure compliance with permit conditions

• Record all persons entering and leaving the Confined Space

• Remain at the entrance at all times

• Fully understand their role in the rescue plan

• Must NEVER enter the Confined Space whilst they are the designated stand-by person

• Ensure no person/s enters the confined space unless authorised and has signed on to the entry log


FIREWATCH

Consideration should be given to the assignment of a fire watch while the hot work is being conducted and for a period of not less than 30 minutes after completion of the hot work. In many cases, the fire watch may be conducted by the Stand-by person(s).

The Fire Watch shall:

• Have extensive training in fire prevention and control methods

• Understand all permit conditions

EXIT PROCEDURE

On exiting the confined space the entrants should comply with the following procedure: • Recover tools, equipment and materials from the confined space

• Conduct an inspection of the confined space

• Stand-by to ensure that all entrants to the confined space have exited and logged off

• Secure access according to site procedures

• Remove tagging and lock out according to site procedures

• Complete confined space entry permit / documentation

CLEAN UP

• Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials in accordance with project environmental management plan

• Clean, check, maintain and store tools and equipment in accordance with manufacturers recommendations and standard work practices

• Remove, clean and store barriers and signs


PRACTICAL EXERCISE

Practical exercise includes:

• Plan and prepare for entering and working in confined spaces

• Complete the risk assessment

• Obtain the permit

• View the work area and confirm that all hazards have been identified and are controlled

• Attach personal danger tags and locks

• Sign on

• Enter and work in the confined space

• Complete the task

• Exit the confined space

• Remove personal danger tags and locks

• Sign off

• Clean up

• Return permit and documentation to the permit issuer

RESOURCES AVAILABLE

• Australian Standard 2865: 2009

• Rescue Equipment

• PPE

• Personal danger tag and lock

• Gas monitoring equipment

• Fire suppression equipment

www.kgtraining.wa.edu.au

(08) 9592 2535

Unit 1 / 8 Day Road, Rockingham

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