HSE warning on dangers of confined spaces

THE Health and Safety Executive has issued a warning to the manufacturing industry, following a recent triple fatality, that entering confined spaces can be extremely dangerous.

Three employees working on a farm near Thetford were asphyxiated in a slurry tank after being overcome by carbon dioxide. This, compounded by a lack of oxygen, resulted in the workers drowning in less than 1m of liquid. A fourth worker, who also entered the tank, was fortunate to escape with his life.

The danger of asphyxiation from entering confined spaces is well known. A lack of oxygen, and in some instances the build up of hazardous gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide, can result in people being quickly overcome with little or no warning before they become unconscious.

Reflecting on the recent tragedy, James Barrett, head of the HSE's manufacturing sector, said: ‘In the last four months alone, three people from manufacturing industries have died as a result of entering confined spaces. This latest incident highlights the risks common to all industries and everyone –– employers, trade unions and workers themselves –– needs to be alert to the dangers.

‘Workers need to stop and think before they enter any confined space, even those with an open top. Toxic gases can build up or the space may contain little or no oxygen.’

Under the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997, employers must try to avoid the need for workers to enter a confined space. Where this is not possible they must:

Mr Barrett added: ‘It is no good managers implementing a safe system of work and assuming employees will follow it. Workers need to be carefully trained and supervised by a competent manager. Senior management must carry out regular checks to be sure the correct procedures are always followed. Anything less is just not good enough and people will continue to die.’

The HSE publishes various guidance on safe work in confined spaces. For more information contact: HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA; tel: (01787) 881165; fax: (01787) 313995.