The Deadly Dangers Inside

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! Yesterday, we defined what a confined space is. Today, we're diving into the specific hazards that make these spaces so deadly and require strict safety protocols.

The dangers of a confined space are often invisible and can overwhelm a worker in seconds. You can't rely on your senses alone.

The Three Main Dangers

1. Atmospheric Hazards: This is the most common cause of fatality in confined spaces. The air inside can be instantly toxic or flammable.

   • Oxygen Deficiency: Oxygen is consumed by rust, microbes, and chemical reactions, or displaced by other gases. A lack of oxygen can cause unconsciousness and death in minutes.

   • Flammable Gases: Gases like methane, propane, or gasoline vapors can be present, creating a risk of explosion if an ignition source (or even a static spark) is introduced.

   • Toxic Vapors: Dangerous gases like carbon monoxide (from engines), hydrogen sulfide (from decomposition), or other chemical vapors can build up, poisoning a worker.

2. Engulfment: This is the risk of being submerged or trapped by a substance.

   • Think of a grain silo, a tank of liquid, or a pipe filled with sand. A worker can be pulled under by shifting material, leading to suffocation or crushing injuries.

3. Physical Hazards: These are the dangers you can see, but they're often difficult to manage in a tight space.

   • Crushing/Trapping: A confined space can have sloped floors that funnel you into a smaller area, or moving parts inside machinery that can trap you.

   • Electrical Hazards: Energized equipment inside the space can pose an electrocution risk if not properly de-energized and locked out.

   • Slipping/Falling: Ladders or platforms can be wet or greasy, leading to a fall.

Because of these dangers, you must never assume the air is safe or the space is secure. You must always use a gas meter to test the atmosphere and follow a strict permit process.

Tomorrow, we'll discuss the critical roles and responsibilities of every person involved in a confined space entry.

Don't forget to sign your friends up for Full Brim Safety for your daily dose of construction safety tips!

-The Safety Man