A confined space is an enclosed location that is not intended for human occupancy that may include a restricted means of entry or exit.
Confined Space Rescue Equipment
Each confined space must be evaluated to determine what type of equipment is required to perform a rescue should it become necessary. Some of the equipment that can be used in confined space rescues:
Ropes: Primary tool in technical rescue
Fall arrest harness: With rescue attachment points and a spreader bar.
Tripod or davit system: Used to have access to vertical entry, anchorage point outside the confined space.
Winches: for entry and rescue and work positioning and suspension.
Oxygen and gas analysis equipment
Ventilation Systems: Ventilate, eliminate, or control the space’s atmospheric hazards
SCBA Units: Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
Communication equipment
Three types of rescue
Types of rescue that may be employed in the confined space setting:
An entrant is capable of recognizing a hazard and is able to exit from the space with no assistance.
Rescue performed from outside the space. Prior to entry retrieval systems and body harnesses should be in place in the event that conditions change. Pully systems, tripods and space entryways should be arranged so that there is minimal change for line entanglement.
Entry rescue should be avoided whenever possible. If entry rescue cannot be avoided then SCBA, lifelines, harnesses, retrieval systems and appropriate levels of protective clothing are required.
