It is important to test the air inside confined spaces for oxygen as well as toxic and flammable gases prior to entry. Confined space gas detector kits use a remote sampling pump to pull a gas sample into the monitor for assessment. This is standard practice before entering any confined space.
Confined spaces are deadly spaces
Worksafe New Zealand defines a confined space as “any area that is not intended for human occupancy and that also has the potential for containing a dangerous atmosphere”.
Examples of places where a confined space gas detector should be used
Confined spaces are large enough for a worker to enter and perform assigned work but have limited or restricted entry and exit and, amongst other things, may contain a hazardous atmosphere arising from chemicals, sludge or sewage.
- Hazardous gases that displace breathable air, e.g. carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide, oxygen deficiency, etc.
- Toxic gases that are flammable and/or explosive, e.g. oxygen concentration, benzene, solvents, etc.
To comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) and, most importantly, to protect workers against man-down incidents, you must evaluate confined spaces before entry. All confined spaces where flammable gases, toxic vapours and abnormal oxygen content are possible should be tested before entry.
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