Confined Spaces Safety is an essential aspect of workplace safety, particularly in industries that require workers to perform tasks in areas with limited space and restricted access. According to estimates, over 100 deaths occur in confined spaces in Canada annually. Implementing proper safety precautions could have prevented 85% of all confined space incidents, including these tragic deaths, says the Canadian Standards Association (Source: Workplace Safety & Prevention Services , URL: https://www.wsps.ca/resource-hub/articles/confined-space)
CONFINED SPACES DEFINITION
What is a confined space?
The amendments to Part XI of the COHSR define 2 distinct types of spaces in a workplace, namely “confined spaces” and “hazardous confined spaces”.
“Confined space” means a space that meets all 3 of the following conditions:
- is fully or partially enclosed
- is not designed or intended for continuous human occupancy, and
- has a limited or restricted means of entry or exit or an internal configuration that could complicate provision of first aid, evacuation, rescue or other emergency response (Source: CSA Group, Management of Work in Confined Spaces CSA Z1006:16, 2020)
(Source: Government of Canada, Confined Spaces, URL: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/health-safety/reports/confined-spaces.html).
| Enclosed or partially enclosed | Is not designed or intended for continuous human occupancy | Has a limited or restricted means of entry or exit or an internal configuration that could complicate provision of first aid, evacuation, rescue or other emergency response | Results |
| No | No | No | No |
| No | No | Yes | No |
| No | Yes | No | No |
| No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Yes | No | No | No |
| Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
What are the main hazards?
Working in confined spaces can be hazardous due to several potential risks. These risks include physical, chemical, and biological hazards. The following are some of the possible hazards of confined spaces safety:
Physical Hazards
- Entrapment and Suffocation – Entrapment and suffocation are significant risks when working in confined spaces. Workers can become trapped due to collapsed structures or equipment failures. They can also suffocate due to a lack of oxygen in the space.
- Explosions and Fires – Explosions and fires are potential hazards in confined spaces due to the presence of flammable gases, liquids, or dust. These hazards can be caused by sparks from electrical equipment or welding, among other sources.
- Falls and Trips – Falls and trips are common in confined spaces due to limited space, poor lighting, and uneven surfaces. Workers can fall from heights, trip over debris or equipment, or slip on wet surfaces.
- Heat Stress and Hypothermia – Heat stress and hypothermia are potential hazards when working in confined spaces that are exposed to extreme temperatures. Workers can suffer from heat exhaustion, dehydration, or frostbite.
Chemical Hazards
- Toxic Gases and Vapors – Toxic gases and vapors are hazardous when working in confined spaces. These hazards can be caused by chemicals used in manufacturing or other processes. Most corrosive substances (acid, base, corrosive gases) give an indication of their presence by irritating the mucous membranes (the results being coughing, watering of the eyes etc.). However, many poisonous substances give little or no warning e.g. carbon monoxide (no odour, minor headache initially, prevents the assimilation of oxygen by the red blood cells), hydrogen sulphide (rotten egg odour disappears quickly due to olfactory fatigue, immediate collapse & respiratory paralysis at ~ 1800 ppm) (Source: Government of Canada, Confined Space, URL: https://tc.canada.ca/en/dangerous-goods/canutec/confined-space).
- Flammable Liquids and Gases – Flammable liquids and gases are hazardous due to their potential to ignite or explode in confined spaces. These hazards can be caused by fuels, solvents, and other chemicals.
- Corrosive Substances – Corrosive substances can cause chemical burns and other injuries when workers are exposed to them in confined spaces. These substances can cause severe skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues.
- Biological Hazards – Biological hazards can be present in confined spaces due to the presence of mold, bacteria, or other microorganisms. These hazards can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues.
Biological Hazards
- Mould
- Bacteria, viruses
- Biological toxins
Electrical Hazards
- Live wires
- Electrical panels
Ergonomic Hazards
- Maintaining difficult postures
- Repetitive strain
- Lifting
- Awkward reaching
- Use of hand tools
Psychological hazards
- Working alone
- Claustrophobia
- Fatigue
(Source: Government of Canada, Confined Spaces, URL: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/health-safety/reports/confined-spaces.html).
CONFINED SPACES LEGISLATION
What is federal legislation?
In Canada, the federal government has established legislation related to confined spaces safety to protect workers and ensure their health and safety while working in confined spaces. The Canada Labour Code Part II (CLC Part II) sets out the requirements for occupational health and safety in federally regulated workplaces. The CLC Part II includes provisions related to confined spaces, which are covered under Part X of the code.
Under Part X of the CLC Part II, employers are required to identify confined spaces in their workplace and assess the hazards associated with them. Employers must also develop and implement a confined spaces program that includes procedures for safe entry, work, and exit from confined spaces. The program must also include provisions for worker training and education, emergency response planning, and equipment and personal protective measures (Source: Government of Canada, Canada Labour Code, URL: https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/L-2/page-1.html).
In addition to the CLC Part II, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) has developed a number of standards related to confined spaces safety. These standards provide guidance on the safe design, construction, and operation of confined spaces, as well as the procedures and equipment required for safe entry and work in confined spaces.
Some of the CSA standards related to confined spaces safety include CSA Z1006-16 – Management of Work in Confined Spaces(Source: CSA Group, Management of Work in Confined Spaces CSA Z1006-16, URL: https://www.csagroup.org/store/product/Z1006-16/) and CSA Z94.4-18 – Selection, use, and care of respirators (Source: CSA Group, CSA Z94.4-18 – Selection, use, and care of respirators, URL: https://www.csagroup.org/store/product/CAN-CSA-Z94.4-18/).These standards provide guidance on a range of topics related to confined spaces safety, including hazard assessment, ventilation, communication, rescue procedures, and personal protective equipment.
What is provincial and territorial legislation?
Each province and territory in Canada has its own occupational health and safety legislation related to confined spaces safety. For example, Ontario has the Occupational Health and Safety Act, which outlines the requirements for identifying and assessing confined spaces and developing confined space entry procedures (Source: Government of Ontario, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, URL: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90o01).Quebec has the Act Respecting Occupational Health and Safety, which requires employers to identify and assess confined spaces and provide appropriate training and equipment to workers (Government of Quebec, Act Respecting Occupational Health and Safety, URL: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/document/cs/s-2.1).
Newfoundland and Labrador employees must undergo a WorkplaceNL-approved “hands-on” training course. Our course has not been submitted to WorkplaceNL for such endorsement.
Other provinces and territories have similar legislation, and employers must comply with the specific requirements in their jurisdiction. It is essential for employers to consult the relevant legislation and regulations and ensure they are providing a safe working environment for their employees.
CONFINED SPACES SAFETY
What is Confined Spaces Safety?
Confined Spaces Safety is a type of occupational Safety that focuses on educating workers about the potential hazards of working in confined spaces. This training aims to equip workers with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely and minimize the risks associated with confined space work.
Who is responsible for Confined Spaces Safety training?
Employers are responsible for providing Confined Spaces Safety to their workers. They must ensure that their workers receive proper training and are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely in confined spaces. Employers are also responsible for providing the necessary equipment and resources to protect their workers.(Source: Justice Laws, Government of Canada, “Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)”. Available at: https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/sor-86-304/index.html)
Who needs Confined Spaces Safety?
Confined Spaces Safety is necessary for workers who work in confined spaces, such as tanks, silos, sewers, or other confined spaces. This training is necessary for workers who are at risk of being exposed to hazardous materials, such as gases, fumes, or vapors.
The following industries require Confined Spaces Safety:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Oil and gas
- Mining
- Agriculture
- Utilities
- Transportation
Can you do Confined Spaces Safety online?
Confined Spaces Safety is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety of workers in potentially hazardous environments. While online training can provide valuable theoretical knowledge and understanding of confined space safety, it is important to recognize its limitations, particularly when it comes to hands-on practical training.
For workers who work around confined spaces (pre-entry), the online training is enough. For workers who require confined space entry, hands-on practice is essential to develop the necessary skills and proficiency in using specialized equipment, performing rescue procedures, and effectively managing the hazards associated with confined spaces. Online courses typically do not provide the opportunity for direct hands-on training in these specific tasks.
To address this limitation, a blended training approach is recommended. Blended training combines online theoretical modules with on-site practical training. The online component can cover the theoretical aspects of confined space safety, including regulations, hazard identification, and proper procedures. The on-site portion would then focus on hands-on practice, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Blended training is beneficial for individuals who have access to the required equipment and can complete workplace-specific checklists under the guidance of a competent person. It ensures that participants receive both the necessary theoretical foundation and practical experience to effectively address confined space hazards.
In-classroom training, on the other hand, may also include hands-on practice but can present challenges. The equipment used in the training may not always match the specific equipment used in the workplace, which can create inconveniences and limit the applicability of the training. Additionally, in-classroom training can be more expensive and may not necessarily provide a more practical learning experience compared to blended training.
It is crucial to be cautious of any company or organization claiming to provide full certification solely through online training without a hands-on component. Such claims are likely fraudulent and can compromise the safety of workers. Blended training, with its combination of online and practical elements, is a more comprehensive and reliable approach to Confined Spaces Safety.
Keep in mind that Newfoundland and Labrador employees must undergo a WorkplaceNL-approved “hands-on” training course.
Where can you purchase Confined Spaces Safety online training?
In today’s fast-paced society, online courses have become the cheapest and most convenient solution to get your Safety done. There are many methods and providers of Confined Spaces Safety. With any training, it is essential to select a high-quality education provider and one that will provide the most value (best information retention in employees) for the time and money.
Ensuring your program materials are always up to date is also extremely important as the amount of health and safety regulations and enforcement is steadily increasing and constantly updating.
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CONFINED SPACES SAFETY CERTIFICATE
What do you need to learn?
To obtain a Confined Spaces Safety certificate, you must attend a training course that teaches you the essential knowledge and skills required to work safely in confined spaces. The following are some of the topics covered in a typical Confined Spaces Safety course:
- Confined space definition and hazards identification
- Legislation and standards related to confined spaces
- Hazard control and risk management
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) and respiratory protection
- Emergency response planning and rescue procedures
- Roles and responsibilities of workers and employers in confined spaces
How long is the certificate valid?
The validity of a Confined Spaces Safety certificate varies depending on the province or territory. For example, in Ontario, the certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue (Ontario Ministry of Labour, 2022). In British Columbia, the certificate is valid for two years from the date of completion of the course. However, refresher training should be carried out on an annual basis or as required by the training needs (Source: CSA Group, Management of work in confined spaces, CSA Z1006:16, 2020).
How will I receive my training certificate with eSafetyFirst?
The certificate will be automatically available for printing once you complete the course and pass the quiz with a score of 80% or higher.
All our courses will come with a PDF certificate at the end of the program.
This PDF file will have two pages: a standard certificate and a wallet-size training record.
The employer should store certificates, while the employee should carry their wallet cards at all times during work.
Students who prefer to receive wallet cards in a physical format can request and purchase a physical wallet card from eSafetyFirst. This optional item is not included in the course price and will cost an additional $10 for printing and shipping.
If you do not have the time to make your laminated wallet card, you may find it rather convenient to order this card directly from us.
How can I find my certificate if I lost it?
In most cases, this question is addressed to us by individuals who took their training with a different company. As a private company, we can only store and access our customers’ data. Therefore, if you did your training with another company, you need to contact them to receive a copy of your certificate.
If you are a customer of eSafetyFirst.com, then all you have to do is to Login to your account, and you can, at any time, download a copy of the certificate you received from us.
CONCLUSION
Confined Spaces Safety is a critical aspect of workplace safety that is mandated by federal and provincial legislation in Canada. Workers who need to enter confined spaces to perform their job duties must receive proper training to ensure they are aware of the potential hazards and know how to stay safe while working in these environments.