How do you know if a work space is really a confined space?

This is a question we are commonly asked, usually when a new site owner or HSE manager assumes responsibility and wants to review risks and update them.

Here’s where to start

The Confined Space Regulations 1997 is the key document to review along with A.C.O.P L101 (Approved Codes of Practice).

Definition

The first thing you will want to read and understand is the definition of a “confined space”, it is described as:

“confined space” means any place, including any chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench, pipe, sewer, flue, well or other similar space in which, by virtue of its enclosed nature, there arises a reasonably foreseeable specified risk;"

On Page 9 of the ACOP you will find a simple flow chart that will guide you in determining if you are dealing with a confined space. This is useful but from time to time it can be difficult for some users of this to be absolutely sure. If you are in doubt, please seek advice from a professional.

The trap

Many people fall into the trap of  saying “ it has a confined space sign, but its not really a confined space”. Make no mistake, if there is an incident and the HSE definitions apply then it will be investigated (and prosecuted) in line with the regulations, regardless of if there is a sign or not. Not knowing is not accepted as an excuse.

Specified risks

Also, in section one it talks about specified risks (usually referred to as the  specified risks of a confined space) an easy acronym for remembering these is:

F – Fire/Explosion results in serious injury

A – Asphyxiation from gases causing a lack of oxygen causing loss of 

consciousness or death

T – Temperature (loss of consciousness from raised body temperature)

A – Asphyxiation/Entrapment (Engulfment, inability to breathe)

L – Liquid (Drowning)

Further information can be found in ACOP Paragraph 12 (a)(b) 

If the risk area you are looking at falls under the description of a confined space AND has one or more of the specified risks present or a likelihood of one developing or being introduced, then the risk area you are looking at, is by definition a confined space, and falls under the legislation and associated A.C.O.P.

If you are in any doubt, seek clarification from a reputable, qualified consultant or alternatively you could increase your knowledge and understanding by undertaking a Management of Confined Spaces training course.

You can enquire about our consultancy services by calling 0800 1125 999 or emailing us at: contact@resQsupport.co.uk

Further sources of information and support can be found by contacting the Confined Space Rescue Trade Association (https://www.csrta.org)