Other Physical Hazards

There is a wide range of other hazards that can be encountered in a confined space:

• Mechanical and electrical equipment can be activated and cause injury or electrocution. Make sure to de-energize and lock out all electrical circuits and physically disconnect mechanical equipment prior to working in confined spaces.
• Slips, trips, or falls from unstable or wet surfaces or heights are a danger in confined spaces. Wet surfaces can also increase the risk of electric shock. Fall protection equipment is needed if the height of work is 3 meters (10 feet) or more or if falling in the space can result in severe injury.
• Air temperature extremes in a confined space, or extremely hot or cold materials inside a confined space, can also be dangerous.
• Noise levels inside a confined space can be amplified and cause hearing loss as well as reduce the ability to communicate with other workers. Wear appropriate hearing protection, and check that communication is not impaired.
• Falling objects, particularly in a top-side opening confined space, can create a hazardous environment. Make sure the opening is guarded or barricaded and that equipment is secured.
• Biological hazards from insects, rodents, bacteria, or molds.
• Poor visibility can create a hazard, as most confined spaces do not have their own light source. Make sure that the space is safely lit with a nonflammable light source if there might be flammable materials in the space.

Safety measures must be planned before entering the confined space. Always check the conditions before entering, and expect the unexpected!

To learn more about Firefighter Confined Space visit our Firefighter Confined Space Entry & Rescue Online Training web page.