Specialist Support for Confined Spaces Regulations 1997
Working in confined spaces—such as trenches, silos, storage tanks, or pits—presents unique, life-threatening risks, including lack of oxygen, toxic gases, and sudden engulfment. At Safety Objectives, we provide the expert support required to meet the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and establish robust safe systems of work.
Our service ensures that every confined space operation you undertake is meticulously planned, legally compliant, and executed with maximum safety.
Key Service Areas: Mitigating High Risk
We help organizations across the South West manage their entire confined space lifecycle, from initial assessment through to emergency planning.
1. Detailed Risk Assessment (Regulation 4)
We conduct thorough Confined Space Risk Assessments to identify all potential hazards—including air quality, ingress/egress difficulties, heat stress, and residual materials. We determine if entry can be avoided (the first legal requirement) and, if not, what precise control measures are required.
2. Permit-to-Work (PTW) System Implementation
A Permit-to-Work system is mandatory for non-routine, high-risk tasks. We design and implement customised PTW systems that ensure:
Authorization: Only authorized persons can grant entry.
Checklists: All safety checks (ventilation, gas testing, isolation) are completed and documented before entry.
Monitoring: Clear procedures for continuous monitoring and communication during the work.
3. Emergency Arrangements (Regulation 5)
We help you establish effective procedures for the rescue of persons should an incident occur. This includes:
Developing site-specific rescue plans and procedures.
Specifying necessary rescue equipment (e.g., retrieval lines, harnesses, breathing apparatus).
Defining the roles and responsibilities of the Top Man, Supervisor, and designated Rescue Team.
4. Training and Competence Compliance
The regulations require adequate training for all involved personnel. We provide guidance on ensuring your team (including entrants, supervisors, and stand-by persons) possesses the necessary competence in:
Hazard recognition and control measures.
Use of gas detection equipment.
Understanding and completing the Permit-to-Work process.
Why Choose Safety Objectives for Confined Space Management?
As a Chartered IOSH Professional, I bring a wealth of practical experience from high-risk environments, including the offshore, marine, and construction sectors.
Practical Focus: We deliver systems that work on-site, not just on paper.
Regulatory Assurance: We ensure your compliance with the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997.
Efficiency: Our digital-first tools streamline documentation, making PTW and checklist processes quicker and more reliable.
Don't leave high-risk operations to chance. Contact us today to discuss your confined space entry needs and establish a truly safe system of work.
