What is a confined space?

The definition of a confined space is often debated. Some define it as a space that is difficult to access, not designed for human occupancy, and potentially contains hazardous substances. Others consider a space confined if it is simply difficult to access. Additionally, the term “Special area” is sometimes used as a less strict variation of a confined space.

For organizations, it is essential to clearly define what qualifies as a confined space. Regardless of the definition used, such spaces always carry risks and require appropriate control measures before entry—including proper safety signage.

Working in a confined space

Although confined spaces are not designed for human occupancy, certain tasks such as cleaning, inspection, maintenance, or repairs may still need to be carried out. However, entering and working in these spaces comes with several risks. The most common hazards include:

• Oxygen deficiency – Confined spaces often have limited airflow, which can lead to a lack of oxygen and the risk of suffocation.
• Drowning – Some confined spaces, such as sewers or crawl spaces, may pose a flooding risk due to rainwater, groundwater, or leaks.
• Hazardous substances – Confined spaces may contain dangerous gases, vapors, or dust particles that can cause poisoning, such as chemicals or hydrogen sulfide.
• Extreme temperatures
• Fire/explosions
• Entrapment
• Slipping/tripping/falling
• Mechanical hazards – Machinery or equipment inside confined spaces may have moving parts, increasing the risk of entrapment or other mechanical injuries.

The Importance of Safety Signage in Confined Spaces

In potentially hazardous environments such as confined spaces, safety signage plays a crucial role. These spaces pose various risks that workers need to be aware of. Safety signage serves as a visual warning, alerting workers that they are about to enter a potentially dangerous area. Additionally, it helps identify specific hazards within the confined space, such as the presence of toxic gases, low oxygen levels, or other health risks.

In the event of an emergency, it is vital that a worker can evacuate safely. Proper safety signage ensures that individuals can quickly and efficiently find their way to the exit in case of an emergency.

What Safety Signage do you need in a Confined Space?

• Warning Signs
  Warning signs alert individuals to potential hazards such as oxygen deficiency, drowning risks, or the presence of dangerous substances.
• Prohibition Signs
  These signs indicate actions that are strictly prohibited in a specific area. They help prevent accidents by clearly communicating what is not allowed.
• Mandatory Signs
  Mandatory signs provide essential instructions for confined spaces, such as the requirement to wear a mask or protective clothing.
• Fire Safety and Emergency Equipment Signs
  Fire safety signs are placed near firefighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers and alarms, ensuring they can be easily located in case of an emergency.
• Escape Route Signage
  Clearly marked escape route signs are crucial for ensuring a fast and safe evacuation in emergency situations.

Informing Individuals About Confined Spaces

Confined spaces are not always easily recognizable from the outside. To prevent people from unknowingly entering such areas, it is essential to place clear signage at the entrances. This can be done using Composite Signs, which display the specific risks associated with the confined space. These signs provide a clear and immediate warning, ensuring that individuals are aware of the potential hazards before entering.

Legislation and Regulations

In the United Kingdom, strict legislation and regulations apply to working in confined spaces. The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997, under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, set out specific legal requirements for employers to ensure the safety of workers in confined spaces. These regulations mandate that employers must assess risks, implement necessary control measures, and ensure that workers receive appropriate training.

Additionally, industry-specific guidelines and best practices, such as those outlined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), provide further guidance on how to manage confined space hazards. The specific rules and requirements depend on the type of confined space and the associated risks. However, one key legal obligation remains consistent: employers are responsible for providing a safe working environment, which includes clear and effective safety signage to warn and inform workers of potential dangers.

A safety Signage plan for your Confined Spaces

Designing a comprehensive signage system is essential for safety. At Blomsma Signs & Safety, we can conduct an on-site audit at any desired location. Based on your specific industry and needs, we provide a customized safety signage system in compliance with ISO TS20559.

Our signage is strategically placed in highly visible locations, optimized for readability in terms of size, and designed to enhance visibility through features such as luminescence (afterglow properties) and retro-reflection.

With extensive experience in implementing safety signage for confined spaces, Blomsma Signs & Safety serves a wide range of industries, including:

• Industry and Chemical Sector
  In this sector, tanks, boilers, vessels, and pits are used for storing and processing liquids, solids (powders), and chemicals. Confined spaces are inherently part of various industrial processes.
• Maritime Sector
  Ships contain multiple confined spaces, such as ballast tanks, pipe tunnels, and (fuel) storage tanks. These spaces are essential for the operation and maintenance of the vessel.
• Terminals
  Tank terminals house large storage tanks for solids and liquids, including chemicals, fuels, and food products. These tanks are classified as confined spaces and require entry for maintenance and inspection.
• Water Treatment Plants
  Water treatment facilities have various confined spaces, including tanks, pits, tunnels, and basements used in the treatment of wastewater and drinking water.
• Offshore
  The offshore industry relies on platforms and installations for oil, gas, and wind energy exploration and extraction. These platforms contain multiple confined spaces, such as tanks and vessels, which are integral to the production process.
• Buildings
  Confined spaces can also be found in buildings, such as crawl spaces, basements, and ventilation systems. These areas play a crucial role in heating, ventilation, and sewage systems.

Contact us

Would you like to ensure that the current safety signage in your confined space complies with all applicable laws and regulations? Or are you looking to implement a completely new signage system? Contact our team today!