Once the equipment has been hired, the employer must ensure that
all checks are carried before each entry, that all personnel required to use it have been
trained in its use, and in carrying out necessary checks.
Q. Can I use my mobile phone in a confined space?
A. There are a
number of specific hazards associated with confined spaces, two being flammable and
explosive atmospheres. In addition there may be stored or used within a confined space
chemicals which or flammable or explosive. The risk assessment will determine whether any
of these are present or likely to be present during the course of work within the confined
space.
If there is the likelihood of either a flammable or explosive
atmosphere arising, the requirements are that all tools are non-sparking and that all
electrical equipment is intrinsically safe, and that no work processes take place which
will add to the flammable/explosive hazard or cause such an atmosphere to ignite.
Communications within the confined space and to the outside are a
core requirement for a safe working procedure. All communication methods and equipment
must be suitable and appropriate with regard to the hazards and risk control measures.
Electrical and battery operated communication equipment for use in the confined space must
therefore be intrinsically safe where a flammable or explosive atmosphere may arise. Check
with the manufacturer as to the suitability of any particular piece of equipment for use
in confined spaces.
Q. What happens if the battery on my atmosphere monitor fails
whilst I am in the confined space?
A. Monitors are
generally designed to alarm if they fail for any reason, including batteries going flat.
When the alarm sounds, even for a flat battery, it is the signal for everyone to evacuate
the confined space until the atmosphere has been tested and the space deemed safe to
re-enter.
The atmosphere must be tested, even if the reason for the alarm
has been a monitor failure.
Modern battery operated monitors generally display how much time
is left before a battery loses energy and requires recharging. This should be read before
entry takes place to ensure that there is enough life in the battery for the duration of
work in the combined space. It should be read again after the confined space has been
exited and if it is low, set aside for recharging (which normally takes several hours). A
regular routine of checking of your monitor's battery life will mean that you will
normally be able to recharge it the day before you require it, thus avoiding battery
failure during entry.
Should you detect that the battery will fail during work in a
confined space, i.e. when there is enough life in the battery for normal use, you may be
able to change the battery in the confined space, if you are carrying a spare, check the
manufacturers recommendations in this regard. However, batteries must never be recharged
within the confined space.
Like all equipment, regular testing and maintenance will ensure
that it remains safe for use in confined spaces. If testing shows a failure or likelihood
for failure, it should be withdrawn from use until repaired or replaced.
