Navigating the dangers within confined spaces demands a meticulous approach to safety. While the core principles of safety are universal, what’s deemed acceptable in one industry might not pass muster in another. This article examines the complex world of confined space rescue methods, with a particular focus on the distinctions between entry and non-entry retrieval, and emphasizes the importance of comprehensive training.
Confined Space Rescue Methods: Entry vs. Non-Entry Retrieval
When an emergency strikes in a confined space, the method of rescue is critical. Generally, rescue operations fall into two main categories: entry rescue and non-entry rescue. Understanding the scope and limitations of each is vital, regardless of whether your rescue capabilities come from fire departments, in-house teams, or contract personnel.
While the primary concern is always the entrant’s safety, it’s also worth considering the financial implications. Non-entry rescue typically involves significantly less expenditure for the employer and is an acceptable option if the structure and hazards of a specific space allow for it.
Understanding Confined Space Non-Entry Rescue
In its most basic form, confined space non-entry rescue utilizes equipment like a tripod (or another secure anchor) and a human-rated winch. Any employee entering the area would need to wear a harness. They also require training not just for entry, but for initiating a rescue or serving as a confined space attendant.
The key advantage of non-entry retrieval is that no additional workers are required to enter the hazardous area to recover or rescue the entrant. This significantly reduces the risk to rescue personnel. If there are no internal obstructions, retrieving an entrant via non-entry means can be a swift and efficient method.
The Realities of Entry Rescue
Conversely, a confined space rescue team responsible for making an emergency entry requires extensive training hours. This ensures they can maintain proficiency in patient care, the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), atmospheric monitoring, and advanced rescue techniques.
Furthermore, training should address the inherent stress of confined space rescue, especially when rescuers know the coworker in need of help, as well as how to manage any new risks introduced into the environment during a rescue. OSHA mandates that entry rescue teams execute at least one practice rescue per year.
The Best Approach to Confined Space Rescue
Consider this: would you want a rescuer saving your life if they’ve only conducted one rescue drill? An effective rescue crew must be capable of operating under demanding conditions, utilizing diverse equipment in various locations, and employing a multitude of methods to safely remove an entrant experiencing an emergency.
While conducting one rescue annually keeps an OSHA-compliant rescue team active, it may not be the optimal approach. Teams that train only once a year might be able to save or retrieve an entrant, but they often lack the rapid decision-making ability and confidence compared to rescuers who train more frequently. This lack of regular practice can hinder their ability to properly analyze a situation, execute entries, and successfully recover an entrant.
Given these considerations, your budgetary choice between entry and non-entry rescue may become quite clear. Ultimately, the best approach often involves opting for a fully-trained and experienced team of EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) professionals and rescuers.
Does Non-Entry Rescue Always Apply?
Even with a robust non-entry rescue plan, you must understand that an entry rescue can become the necessary next step if a non-entry attempt fails. Every confined space non-entry rescue can quickly escalate into an entry rescue for several reasons:
- A collapsed body posture prevents you from safely using a winch without causing further harm.
- An injured entrant positions themselves behind obstacles, such as walls, pumps, or other equipment, within the space.
- The specific location (e.g., a sludge pit, metering pit) does not permit the safe use of an industrial tripod.
- Your non-entry rescue equipment, such as the tripod and winch, experiences a mechanical failure.
- The non-entry rescue employees did not receive proper training to operate the tripod and winch effectively.
While having a confined space non-entry rescue team is beneficial, never rely on it exclusively. If it doesn’t work, you will require an entry rescue team or the fire department.
What About the Fire Department?
Do you know your local fire department’s average response time? Depending on your location, it could be less than five minutes, ten minutes, fifteen minutes, or even longer. Once you’ve determined their typical response time, add at least an additional 10 minutes.
Let’s assume the crew is available and their response time to your location is six minutes. Upon arrival, they’ll need to assess the situation, formulate a strategy, gather equipment, and assemble at the rescue site before they can begin the rescue. In a worst-case scenario, your employee might have to hold their breath for 5-25 minutes. This critical time window can, unfortunately, transform a highly survivable situation into one that may not be reversible.
In short, having an on-site team of experienced EHS and confined space rescue experts can significantly minimize response time and ultimately help save lives.
Gaining Essential Knowledge and Practical Skills for Confined Space Rescue
Training is crucial. It prepares your team to understand hazards, risks, and best practices. The course trains thoroughly. It offers a combination of theory and hands-on skills, including confined space non-entry rescue skills that apply to real-life rescues.
Here’s what participants master:
- Hazard Recognition and Assessment: Learn to find dangers and control multiple risks in confined areas, such as toxic air and mechanical risks. Use real cases and past incidents.
- Pre-Incident Planning and Preparedness: Develop Your Planning Skills for Confined Space Entries. Map out hazards and set emergency steps. Ensure all gear is ready and thoroughly assess the sites before entry or rescue.
- Atmospheric Monitoring and Health Considerations: Hands-on training with monitors to detect harmful gases and check for lack of oxygen. Understand health dangers related to the risk of flammable air and Asphyxiating conditions.
- Selection and Use of Specialized Equipment: Familiarize yourself with specialized equipment, including harnesses, ventilation systems, and retrieval devices. Focus on the safe use of PPE gear from top safety brands, especially for non-entry retrieval.
- Advanced Rescue Techniques: Practice live rescues. Engage in drills and build skills in advanced entry and non-entry retrieval. Enhance communication and victim management while adhering to industry standards for technical rescue.
- Decontamination and Isolation Procedures: Learn isolation protocols and how to execute safe decontamination of personnel and equipment as part of an emergency response.
This training is thorough. Participants are prepared. Not just for hazards. But for immediate action. When every second matters.
The Bottom Line
The nature of the confined space and the expertise of your crew fundamentally determine the choice of rescue method. Does your space have minimal internal configurations or obstacles? Is it feasible to remove an unconscious individual through the opening? If so, a confined space non-entry rescue could be a viable primary option.
However, if your space has any internal obstacles or a tiny entry that would make removing an unconscious patient difficult, you must have a clear strategy for entry rescue. Regardless of your specific choice, technique, or the risks involved, no one wants a rescuer with insufficient or minimally required training.
Investing in robust confined space training empowers your rescuers, ensuring they know how to prepare for and respond to confined space emergencies. Alternatively, consider contacting professionals who bring specialized expertise and equipment to the table.