Despite meticulous planning and testing, there’s always a chance of getting off track as employees enter or work in confined spaces. This is where the services of a confined space rescue team are required to tackle the situation, prevent property loss, and save lives.
Confined space rescue can be a complex and elaborate process. Success largely depends on the capabilities of the rescue team. Therefore, it is important to choose a competent team equipped with the right skills and experience to act quickly and confidently in an unfortunate situation.
Choosing Confined Space Rescue Services
Follow the steps discussed below to choose a capable confined space rescue team.
Step 1 – Consider Team Experience
Look for a team with a proven track record of successful confined space rescues or similar projects. Don’t just rely on the project lead’s experience. Ensure all team members are highly skilled and qualified for the specific type of confined space rescue you may need, and ask for details about their experience:
- What types of confined spaces have they dealt with in the past (e.g., tanks, silos, trenches)?
- Have they handled rescues in similar environments to yours?
- Can they provide references or case studies of successful past rescues?
Step 2 – Check the Track Record
Dig a little deeper to ensure the confined space rescue services you are considering have a stellar track record. Go beyond what the company tells you and research its reputation. Look for online reviews, industry awards, or mentions in safety publications. Contact references provided by the company to get a firsthand perspective on their service and capabilities.
Step 3 – Inquire About Training
Does the team you are considering train regularly? Regular training is essential to keep the team in shape and polish their skills and performance. So, take the time to learn about the training regime of the team. You can also ask them to demonstrate a sample training exercise for you.
Here is a list of questions to ask during your confined space rescue services evaluation.
- Are all members of the rescue team trained as permit space entrants?
- Did the team receive training in using personal protective equipment (PPE)?
- Is the team trained in providing first aid medical services to treat victims in confined spaces?
- Does the team have the skills, knowledge, and gear required to perform atmospheric testing?
- Are team members trained in retrieving victims from confined spaces with small openings?
Answering these questions will give you an idea of the training and skills of the confined space rescue services team.
Step 4 – Check the Documentation
Competent specialized emergency services provide comprehensive documentation of their company profile, technicians, and other team members. The documentation also includes all rescuing services or associated activities and is readily available for clients on request.
Take the time to read through the available documentation, and make sure you look for the following information.
- Time required by the team to provide rescue services under different circumstances. According to NFPA 350, when a worker requires a technical rescue in the absence of a recognized hazard, the rescue should be available on-site within five minutes and set up entry within 15 minutes. On the other hand, if life-threatening hazards are present, rescue entry should be set up within 2 minutes of the incident, and so on.
- Number of people on the rescue team with respect to the hazards of the space and duties of the rescuers
Step 5 – Gauge Cross-Functional Capabilities
Cross-functional capabilities are defined as providing services beyond the standard scope of the rescue protocol. Consider companies where the rescue team has additional skills beyond confined space rescue. This can be beneficial in case of complex emergencies. It is advisable to choose a confined space rescue services firm where the technicians are also trained in fire safety inspection and firefighting experience, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification, and Technical rope rescue skills.
Step 6 – Check for Insurance
Finally, ensure that the confined space rescue services firm you choose has adequate insurance to reduce your risks. This protects you from any liability in case of an accident during a rescue operation. Ask for details about their insurance policy:
- Types of coverage included (e.g., general liability, professional liability)
- Adequate coverage limits
The Bottom Line: Relying On 911 Is Not Enough
The dangers and definition of a confined space may vary from one industry to another. Some confined spaces may be more dangerous than others. In any case, relying on 911 for rescue services is not good enough. With lives at stake, it is essential to prepare beforehand. Follow the above steps to choose a quick, effective, and proficient confined space rescue provider like DCSRescue.