Confined spaces pose dangers because as they often have poor ventilation which allows hazardous and potentially deadly atmospheres to develop especially if the space is small.
The University has a primary duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that workers (including contractors and sub-contractors) and other persons are not exposed to health and safety risks due to entry into confined spaces.
The risks of working in confined spaces include:
- loss of consciousness, impairment, injury or death due to immediate effects of airborne contaminants;
- fire or explosion from the ignition of flammable contaminants;
- difficulty in rescuing and treating and unconscious or injured person;
- physiological and psychological demands;
- asphyxiation resulting from oxygen deficiency or immersion in free-flowing material such as sand, water or other liquids.
- Note - The hazards may change from one entry into the confined space to the next and may include other hazards such as mechanical, electrical, noise, radiation, hazardous chemical, biological and environmental.
Please see the following procedures for details on requirements for managing high risk work and entry to confined spaces.
Additional information on managing Confined Spaces and associated hazards can also be found in the Code of Practice Confined Spaces which is a practical guide for achieving the standards of health and safety required under WHS legislation.
