Confined Space

Confined spaces present unique hazards to workers due to the potential for limited ventilation and the accumulation of dangerous gases. Understanding oxygen levels and other gas concentrations is critical to ensure safe entry and for working within these environments.

Working in confined spaces presents unique challenges and risks, significantly distinct from those found in more open work environments. Due to their limited access and the potential for hazardous conditions, confined spaces require stringent safety measures to protect workers

Several regulatory changes have been introduced in Quebec in recent years. The aim of these changes is, of course, to improve worker safety, in particular by making workplaces safer. Confined space work is the next target of these regulatory changes. Replacement definitions, new provisions and modified atmospheric thresholds will come into force on July 25, 2023.

External service providers are often at risk in confined spaces. They are hired to do work that you can't or won't do yourself. Even if they are used to doing specialized work, that doesn't mean they are protected from danger.

Many work incidents or accidents happen in confined spaces each year. In many instances, victims are not aware of the risks and that the control measures were inadequate. Despite what the name implies, a confined space is not necessarily small and can be found in most workplaces. A confined space is essentially a place not intended for human occupancy, where it is difficult to enter or exit, and involves risks such as elevators, vats, hoppers, service galleries, tanks, sewers, pipelines, access shafts, tankers and tank cars, airplane wings, boilers, manholes, manure pits and storage tanks.

Did you know that most serious accidents and fatalities occurring in confined spaces are related to oxygen deficiency or due to the presence of toxic or flammable gases? However, it is estimated that 60% of fatal accident victims are persons who attempted a rescue without the proper knowledge or necessary equipment for this type of intervention. In any case, regardless of the situation, not everyone can become a rescuer!

Come and learn how to better determine your gas detection needs with the advice of our experts: discover the differences between detectors, differences in applications and usage.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), a highly toxic gas, is a component found in the emission of diesel engines or as a result of blasting.

How to select the gas detector that will ensure the safety of workers and help your company save time and money? Several models with constantly evolving technologies are available on the market. It is therefore very important to understand the available features and options to make an informed decision.

The majority of fatal accidents occurring in confined spaces are related to air problems due to a deficiency or surplus of oxygen, gas behaviour and toxic vapours, explosive levels of products, etc.

Confined spaces are considered favourable environments for the rapid increase of contaminants or the reduction of oxygen. Most of the workers are aware of this risk. However, too often, people responsible for the installation of the ventilation are only following the guidelines to ensure compliance without asking the right questions.

We are fortunate to rely on the best performing gas detectors ever made. However, the user often makes certain mistakes. Fabien Demers, SPI Senior Advisor and Trainer, would like to draw your attention to two important mistakes still occurring too often in the workplace.