Confined Space Training

Confined Space Training

Workplaces that require workers to enter confined spaces, or areas that restrict movement because of their narrow dimensions, can pose risk to employees who are not properly trained to work in confined spaces. Working in a confined space can pose hazards and risks such as entrapment, engulfment, and hazardous atmospheric conditions. Employees may also face more exposure to dangerous machinery in close proximity. Confinement itself can lead to limited airflow.

To avoid risks and maintain the safety of the workplace, confined spaces training is necessary for all employees working in such environments.

Definition of Confined Space

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, defines a confined space as follows: 

• Is large enough for an employee to enter fully and perform

assigned work;

• Is not designed for continuous occupancy by the employee; and
• Has a limited or restricted means of entry or exit.

These spaces may include underground vaults, tanks, storage bins, pits and diked areas, vessels, silos and other similar areas.

Confined Space Training Course Content

Confined space training courses usually cover the control of and entry into confined spaces. Participants will learn how to safely use equipment and personal protection devices, work in accordance with confined space requirements, and exit the confined space in accordance to procedures.

Participants will also learn how to assess a confined space for safety level and about the various safety hazards that accompany working in small spaces. Often, confined space training courses are completed on-site to give participants a realistic and practical training experience. 

A confined space training course can result in a certification of completion or related credits.