Group:

Course: Introduction to Health, Safety and Environment

Course Code: HSEV1005

Confined Space

DO NOT ENTER
a confined space
without
professional
training!!

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Group:
Course: Introduction to Health, Safety and Environment
Course Code: HSEV1005

1.
Yes, the manhole described is indeed a confined space.
Reasons:
- Limited means of entry and exit: The manhole is a confined space as it has a restricted
entrance and exit, making it challenging for a person to enter and exit quickly in case of
an emergency.
- Inhabitable for living: Manholes were not designed for people to work in continuously,
which is why their classified as confined spaces.
- Potential hazards: The presence of hazardous conditions, as evidenced by the low oxygen
concentration, classifies this space as confined.

2.
Low oxygen concentration and highly flammable vapors confines this space is Hazardous.

3.
Gases in this Confined Space and Their Effects:
- Low oxygen concentration (2.1%): May lead to unconsciousness and, ultimately,
asphyxiation.

- Highly flammable vapors (>60% of lower explosive level): Increases the risk of fire or
explosion, posing a severe threat to anyone in the confined space.

4.
Engineer's Decision to Enter:
a. No, the engineer should not have entered the manhole after dropping the flow
meter, considering the apparent hazards and lack of proper precautions.
5.
Co-workers' Rescue Attempt:
a. No, the co-workers should not have attempted to rescue the victim without proper
training and equipment. Untrained rescuers risk becoming additional victims,
exacerbating the emergency.
6.
Non-Apparent Hazard Example:

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Group:
Course: Introduction to Health, Safety and Environment
Course Code: HSEV1005

a. Oxygen deficiency in confined spaces, as exemplified in the incident, is not easily

detectable by the senses but poses a life-threatening hazard.
7.
Precautions Prior to Entry:
a. Before entering a confined space with no apparent hazard to the senses, thorough
atmospheric testing, proper ventilation, and the use of appropriate personal
protective equipment are essential.
8.
Workplace Confined Space Example:
a. Example: Storage tanks. These may be considered confined spaces due to limited
entry points and potential hazardous atmospheres, emphasizing the need for safety
measures and adherence to confined space protocols.

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