Q&A: Fall Protection and Confined Space with 3M
Fall protection and confined space safety are critical for protecting workers in hazardous environments. To clarify these important topics, we've gathered insights from 3M and SPI Health and Safety experts, addressing the most common questions on both subjects.
Discover practical advice on selecting the right equipment, understanding regulatory requirements, and keeping your teams safe during work at heights or in confined spaces.
Lanyard Classification: What is the Class Y?
Question: What is the new lanyard classification introduced in the 2017 standard, and how does it affect lanyard integration with harnesses?
Answer: The 2017 standard introduced a new lanyard classification, called Class Y, bringing the total number of classes to seven. Class Y lanyards, also known as 100% tie-off or two-legged lanyards, have three connectors—two Class 1 connectors to the anchorage and one connector or soft loop at the body—and include an energy absorber. Integrating a Class Y lanyard without an energy absorber into a harness that already has an energy absorber on the dorsal D-ring could cause compatibility issues. Therefore, it’s important to ensure the correct combination of lanyards and harnesses to maintain safety at heights.
Is a Watchman Required for Work at Heights?
Question: Is a watchman necessary to trigger a rescue plan in the event of a fall?
Answer: In confined spaces, having a dedicated watchman is mandatory. For work at heights, while provincial regulations strongly recommend it, it is now quite rare to see a worker alone. Federal regulations require a permanent watchman to quickly initiate emergency measures if an incident occurs.
Anti-Trauma Equipment: Relief or Extended Safety?
Question: Does anti-trauma equipment extend rescue time or only relieve the worker?
Answer: Properly adjusted anti-trauma straps maintain blood circulation longer, giving rescuers extra time. However, it is essential to perform the rescue as quickly as possible.
Read our article on suspension trauma
Should All Fall Risks Be Identified?
Question: Do all locations with fall hazards need to be identified in the work environment?
Answer: The RSST does not make this mandatory, but we recommend identifying all work-at-height locations to control risks as much as possible. Knowing the risks allows you to choose the right equipment. Federal regulations, however, require a fall protection plan that includes identifying risks and the equipment to be used.
What Training Is Required for Work at Heights?
Question: What training is required for workers at heights and those performing confined space rescues?
Answer: Workers at heights must receive appropriate training for their tasks. SPI Health and Safety offers:
Our confined space rescue training, which lasts three days, includes both theoretical and practical components. At SPI, we have facilities such as a simulator and a fixed ladder to safely practice rescues.
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Rescue Plan for Confined Spaces: Is It Mandatory?
Question: Is it mandatory to have a rescue plan for work in confined spaces?
Answer: Yes. Article 309 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (RSST) stipulates that a rescue procedure must be developed, tested, and implemented quickly when needed.
Question: What Is a Rescue Procedure?
Answer: A rescue procedure must include:
- Necessary equipment
- A rescue team
- Communication devices
- A description of each person's roles and responsibilities
- An evacuation plan and documentation measures
SPI Health and Safety can help you develop a rescue procedure tailored to your context. Contact us now at 1-877-640-9534 to learn more about our audit services.
Would you like to learn more about rescue plans? Download our free white paper to discover the importance of a well-structured rescue plan and how it can save lives.
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