Configuring a Confined Space Rescue Team

Ensuring you have the right level of rescue provision is paramount when working in Confined Space. Here, Richard Davis, Director at Triton Risk, presents a six-step activation plan to form an expert confined space rescue team:

Step 1: Recognise the Need for a Confined Space Rescue Team

Comprehensive Assessment: Start by identifying all confined spaces within your workplace. Perform a thorough evaluation of these spaces, noting any atmospheric, physical, or task related hazards that may compromise safety

Risk Evaluation: Assess the risks associated with each confined space. Note factors such as the nature of the tasks to be performed, the experience of the work party, and the complexity of potential rescue scenarios.

Compliance with Regulations: Confirm adherence to relevant safety regulations and standards that may necessitate the formation of a confined space rescue team.

Step 2: Define Roles and Responsibilities for the Team

Team Structure: Determine the size and structure of the confined space rescue team. Assign roles and responsibilities to team members, including team leader, rescuers, attendants, and equipment operators.

Training and Certification: Ensure all team members receive the requisite training and certifications in confined space rescue. This should encompass first aid, CPR, proficiency in rescue techniques, and safe entry protocols.

Step 3: Allocate Essential Equipment and Resources

Provision of Rescue Equipment: Ensure the correct rescue equipment is available to the team to deliver against the identified rescue scenarios. Ensure the equipment is maintained and inspected to ensure functionality.

Step 4: Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS)

Creation of SOPs and RAMS: Establish comprehensive SOPs and RAMS governing confined space entry and rescue operations. These documents should provide clear directives for evaluating confined spaces, preparing for entry, executing the potential rescues , and post-rescue protocols.

Safety Protocol Inclusion: Encompass safety protocols for atmospheric monitoring, ventilation, communication, entry permits, and emergency response. Stress the importance of continuous monitoring during confined space work.

Step 5: Conduct Training and Drills

Training: Offer comprehensive training to all personnel involved in confined space entry and rescue, ensuring they are well-versed in the established SOPs and safety procedures. Implement periodic refresher training sessions to maintain skill level.

Simulated Drills: Regularly conduct simulated confined space rescue drills and exercises to assess the team’s ability to execute safe and efficient rescue operations. Evaluate and meticulously document the outcomes of these drills for ongoing improvement.

Step 6: Establish Communication and Reporting Protocols

Effective Communication: Clearly define communication protocols for team members engaged in confined space entry and rescue activities. Ensure seamless communication among team members and with workers inside the confined space.

Reporting and Documentation: Set up procedures for incident reporting, near-miss documentation, and lessons learned. Maintain detailed records detailing confined space entries, rescues, and equipment inspections.

By diligently following this six-step configuration plan, organisations will identify the necessity for a confined space rescue team, assemble a competent team with the right resources and training, and establish robust safety procedures to safeguard personnel working in confined spaces. Ongoing training, drills, and continuous evaluation are pivotal in maintaining the team’s readiness and proficiency.

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