Confined spaces: Risks and how to ensure safety

Many employees today work in confined spaces where health and safety risks are abundant, such as:

• Fainting or loss of consciousness due to lack of oxygen,
• Falls,
• Poisoning caused by toxic substances.

 

The Multisectorial Occupational Health Service (STM) in Luxembourg defines a confined space as:

"A confined space is a hollow volume that is completely or partially enclosed, such as tanks, reservoirs, or wells. Typically, this space is only used for maintenance, upkeep, or cleaning tasks."

 

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What should be done to minimize the risks in confined spaces?

 

• Carry out diagnostics of the location:
  Identify potential dangers like lack of oxygen, reduced accessibility, or contamination.

 

• Define protection measures:
  • Appoint a person responsible for safety,
  • Provide personal protective equipment (PPE).

 

• Establish clear instructions and train employees:
  • Write task-specific instructions,
  • Train and inform workers on potential risks.

 

• Ensure reliable communications:
  Use reliable communication devices like walkie-talkies to stay in contact.

 

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The role of SSTL Sàrl

 

As an external prevention service, SSTL Sàrl can assist in:

• Risk evaluation in advance,
• Preparing and implementing an action plan.

 

Feel free to contact us for further information.
Our consultants are here to help.