Fall Protection in Confined Space
Confined space, in relation to a place of work, means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not designed or intended primarily to be occupied by a person and is or is designed to be at normal atmospheric pressure while any person is in the space,is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety from:
- i) an atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level
- ii) contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts that may cause injury from fire or explosion, or
- iii) harmful concentrations of any airborne contaminants or
- iv) engulfment
Get in easily. Get out safely.
The know-how to navigate job sites with confined spaces.
Confined spaced. Unique challenges.
No two confined spaces are exactly alike. Type, size and hazards vary greatly, along with different standards, regulations and company policies that can apply to each working environment.
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Common types of confined spaces
Safely handling entries and exits starts with identifying your work spaces:
- Storage tanks
- Culverts
- Tunnels
- Elevator shafts
- Ductwork
- Trench box
- Utility vaults
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Where they are found
Working safely in confined spaces is universal, but different industries present their own challenges:
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Chemical manufacturing
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Oil and gas
- Waste water treatment
Developing a Confined Space Plan
Be ready before getting to work, so your team can safely handle all entries and exits.
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Infographic: Four steps of a plan
Before working in a confined space, always start with:
- A site evaluation
- Identification of proper safety equipment and other required tools
- A trained rescue team that has developed a pre-planning program
- Certified training that involves practice and hands-on experience for all parties who will work in and around a confined space
Plan, Access, Work Inside, and Rescue & Retrieval: Learn what they mean and how to address each step.
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Additional Planning Resources
View the video to learn more about the basic elements that make up confined space entry, retrieval and rescue.
Confined space videos
Many health and safety challenges are associated with confined spaces. We’re here to help with a comprehensive collection of videos
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You’ve selected the right equipment. See how to use it before stepping on the job. -
Training can help ensure confined space entrants, attendants, supervisors, and rescuers are aware of hazards they may face and know how to carry out their job safely. 3M can support you with our instructor-led Confined Space courses.
Other PPE considerations for confined space
Our Fall Protection team has years of experience and are here to help you.
Finding and using Fall Protection Products
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Choosing the right protection for the job
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