Introduction to Canada Confined Space Competent Person/Supervisor Training

Confined spaces can be below or above ground. Confined spaces can be found in almost any workplace. A confined space, despite its name, is not necessarily small. There are several types of confined spaces, as follows:

• Silos
• Vats
• Hoppers
• Utility vaults
• Tanks
• Water supply towers
• Sewers
• Pipes
• Access shafts
• Truck or rail tank cars
• Aircraft wings
• Boilers
• Manholes
• Pump stations
• Digesters
• Manure pits
• Storage bins

Ditches and trenches may also be considered confined spaces when access or egress is limited. Barges, shipping containers, and fish holds are also considered to be confined spaces.

Workers in confined spaces are at increased risk for injury for many reasons, including the following:

• The entrance and exit of the confined space can make it difficult for workers to get out quickly.
• Self-rescue by the worker is more difficult.
• Rescue of the victim is more difficult. The interior configuration of the confined space often does not allow easy movement of people or equipment within it.
• Natural ventilation alone will often not be sufficient to maintain respirable air. The interior configuration of the confined space does not allow easy movement of air within it.
• Conditions can change very quickly.
• The space outside the confined space can impact the conditions inside the confined space and vice versa.
• Work activities may introduce hazards that were not initially present.
• Lack of communication between the workers in the space, the attendant, and the emergency response team can create confusion.

While some confined space accidents may cause minor injuries, such as abrasions and broken bones, others can be very dangerous and potentially fatal. OHS's guidelines seek to minimize injuries and deaths in confined spaces.

The OHS standard provides information about how competent persons and supervisors can take protective action through the following measures:

• Complying with OHS standards
• Adhering to requirements for maintenance, safeguards, and operational features for equipment
• Implementing effective training plans
• Creating emergency action plans

By adhering to the OHS regulations, competent persons and supervisors contribute to a safer work environment.

To learn more about Confined Space Competent Person/Supervisor visit our Confined Space Competent Person/Supervisor Online Training web page.