Any time when there is a need to enter a confined space that has the potential to contain traces of fuel or gas, then stringent health & safety regulations should always be adhered to.
A confined space is defined as any space that is large enough for a person to bodily enter and by virtue of nature is enclosed.
Although all fuel and contents may have been removed from an enclosed space, residue gases may still reach harmful and dangerous levels for employees and workers.
It is highly possible that these fuel gases may be undetectable by smell and possess the capacity to disorientate and overwhelm a worker within minutes.
It is imperative that a series of comprehensive air quality test are carried out before entering any potentially contaminated confined space.
What to check for – Danger to health can exist in a number of hazardous atmospheric situations, including:
Oxygen enriched;
Oxygen depleted;
Flammable;
Toxic.
All personnel should have been inducted, briefed and have knowledge of confined space entry and procedures.
On entering a dangerous enclosed space, monitoring should be conducted prior to entry and also continuously during entry.
Monitoring point samples should be taken top, middle and bottom of the space due to some gases being lighter than air and some being heavier.
Handy Fuel WA are qualified to provide on-site testing for all confined and enclosed spaces, testing for gas and fuel deposits. Our specialist calibrated testing equipment can analyse and certify your enclosed spaces safe to enter. Be safe and test first.
Call Dan at Handy Fuel for help and advice on 08 6209 2621 or visit www.handyfuelwa.com.au.
Handy Fuel WA provides a comprehensive fuel storage & management service to the commercial, retail and industrial sectors throughout Western Australia.
Gas testing saves lives. Failure to test can kill.