Then, elevated locations must be considered. Does the internal configuration require the need for rigging directional pulleys inside the space? Are there any other training or equipment shortfalls? There are many other internal physical configuration considerations such as sharp edges, sensitive equipment, exposed leading edges, hot surfaces, limited patient packaging and more. The internal configuration of the space also has to be evaluated to determine if any obstacles would impede rescue or limit the types of patient packaging that may be required. Generally, a rigid Stokes type litter will not fit through a portal that is 24 inches or less, especially once the victim is loaded into the litter. Why is it important to consider these confined space types and portal sizes when evaluating the rescue team? Well, it has to do with the rescue team’s ability to get in and out of the portal with any required PPE - most likely affecting the need for airline respirators versus backpack SCBAs - and also the need to get a packaged victim out of the space. The even numbers (Types 2, 4 and 6) are portals greater than 24 inches. Then, for portal dimensions, the odd numbers (Types 1, 3 and 5) are more restricted portals that are less than 24-inches in diameter. These same tools can be used to determine appropriate “training levels” for the confined space rescue team as well.įor example, with “Confined Space Types 1-6,” you’ll notice that for each pairing of numbers, CS Types 1 & 2 are “side entry” portals Types 3 & 4 are “top entry” portals and Types 5 & 6 are “bottom entry” portals. Taking advantage of OSHA’s 1910.146 Appendix F guidance and the “Confined Space Types Chart” will arm the confined space program administrator with tools to adequately vet a prospective or selected rescue team. The performance demonstration must confirm that the team is indeed capable of providing safe and effective rescue for the site’s worst-case confined space rescue scenario.Īnother helpful tool is a “Confined Space Types Chart” that can be used in identifying potential worst-case situations for a responding rescue team. However, unless the confined space administrator knows the right questions to ask of the team or knows a great deal about proper rescue procedures, the evaluation may not reveal a true picture of the team’s capabilities. The need for sometimes complex rescue techniques and the use of specialized equipment required for safe entry rescue is indeed difficult to evaluate unless the evaluator has a strong background in the field.Ī great starting point for “evaluating” a prospective confined space rescue team can be found in OSHA 1910.146-Appendix F. One reason is that most confined space program administrators don’t have a background in confined space rescue procedures, especially if there is a need for “entry rescue” if non-entry rescue is infeasible. The preparation often misunderstood (or inadequately addressed) is PRCS rescue. These preparations are all logical and well comprehended by most PRCS program administrators. Another is preparing the permit space for safe entry by eliminating or controlling known or potential hazards. First is properly preparing your confined space entry team (Authorized Entrants, Attendants, and Entry Supervisors) by providing proper training and equipping them with appropriate PPE, communications and management’s support. Preparations for entering these spaces come in many forms.
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