Working Safely in Confined Spaces

About this course.

What this course covers. This course builds a working understanding of confined space risk for people who plan, supervise or perform construction and maintenance work where confined spaces may be encountered. It explains the WHS concept of a confined space and why the definition turns on hazard and design intent rather than simply on size. It examines why confined spaces cause multiple-fatality incidents so disproportionately, and why would-be rescuers are so often the additional victims. It then walks through the duty to manage the risk — starting with the duty to eliminate the need to enter at all — and the general suite of controls used when entry genuinely cannot be avoided: risk assessment, a confined space entry permit, atmospheric testing and continuous monitoring, ventilation and purging, isolation of energy and of the introduction of hazards, signage, a trained standby person, reliable communication, and above all an emergency and rescue plan. It closes with training, competency and consultation.

Who it is for. Site supervisors, leading hands, trades and general construction workers, maintenance crews, plumbers, electricians, and health and safety representatives who may direct, oversee or carry out work in or near confined spaces, and who record CPD against their own obligations. It is an awareness and refresher resource. It is not a substitute for the hands-on, assessed confined space entry training that anyone actually entering, supervising entry to, or standing by a confined space must hold.