OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY IN HAZARDOUS CONFINED SPACE

Abstract

The paper presents the concept of hazardous confined space by identifying hazards in closed areas, with special emphasis on dangerous gases commonly found there, and occupational safetymeasures that involve: testing the air, cleaning and ventilation, separating enclosed spaces, personal protections, entry control, blocking mobile device and rescuing casualties. For only 8 years in America, there has been an average of 89 work-related deaths in confined spaces per year, and approximately 23 (25.5%) of those who died were persons attempting rescue. Asphyxiation by gases was the primary cause of death. The persons who were participating in rescue were in most cases co-workers, not or emergency medical service personnel. Since rescue operations in confined spaces are unique hazards, proper training of personnel and the availability of specialized equipment are required to protect persons attempting rescue from injury and death. Emergency medical service personnel should be familiar with all potential threats and rescue techniques in confined space. Analogously, the paper describes all the potential dangers and hazards of indoor space. Key words: hazardous confined spaces, occupational safety.