Category Archives: Confined Space Equipment

Horizontal Side-Entry Confined Space Options

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When dealing with confined space entry rescue applications, few offer as many difficulties as side-entry or horizontal entry confined spaces. The question we commonly get is, “What can we use for rescue in side-entry confined space applications?”

None of the traditional rescue equipment works: tripod rescue systems, quadpod systems, etc. They are made for vertical rescue applications. This means they can’t accommodate the side loads a horizontal rescue would require.

SIDE-ENTRY RESCUE OPTIONS

Side Entry Confined SpaceThere are specialized side-entry systems. They attach to certain kinds of entry points, and use davit arm technology. These systems are very expensive and require a very specific flange configuration. The space needs to be circular; have a 22″-56″ diameter entry point; and the entry point needs a flange ranging from 1″ to 6″ in thickness. We’d be glad to help you find such a system.

There are also pole hoist systems. These also require a flange at the entry point to the space. Again, these systems are fantastic, but very expensive.

AFFORDABLE OPTIONS

HZKit-1 Horizontal Side-Entry RescueSo what if you don’t have the budget or an appropriate side-entry flange configuration? This is where our HZKit-1 may help. It’s affordable, portable, and easy to use. Because it requires the presence of certain structural elements, it will not be the solution for every side-entry or horizontal confined space application.

Here’s how the system works:

  1. There needs to be a suitable anchorage point nearby the entry point–a beam or other structural steel. The anchorage point needs to meet OSHA’s 5,000 pound anchorage point requirement. It needs to be at or near ground level so it is easily accessible to the confined space attendant.
  2. The included 3′ anchor sling is attached to this suitable beam or anchorage point.
  3. The R50G rescue winch is then attached to the anchor sling with the included carabiner. The handle needs to be free of obstructions so it can turn freely when engaged.
  4. The 50′ rescue cable is then attached to the entrant’s harness, preferably the back d-ring.
  5. The cable will move in and out with the entrant automatically. If rescue is needed the handle is engaged and rescue can begin.

Warning: the rescue unit must be configured in such a way that the handle has full range of turning available to it…no obstructions. The handle must be able to crank unimpeded by any obstructions. And the attendant has to have unhindered access to the rescue winch.

Warning: because the system is not used with a pulley, the attendant is pulling the full weight of the entrant.

Please check out the HZKit-1 system. Call with any questions or concerns.

confined space kits

Confined Space Kits – A Primer

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What are confined space kits? Which one is right for my job application? This brief post will answer these questions and provide a basic knowledge of confined space kits. The hope is to provide you the necessary information to make informed decisions in your purchasing efforts.

Confined Space Kits – What Are They?

Generally, confined space kits consist of a complete tripod rescue system, a gas monitor or gas detector, a ventilation blower, and a fall protection harness. In your average confined space entry application, all of these items are needed or should be readily available.

Confined Space Kits

CSK-F-Q-A Confined Space Kit from Major Safety

In this confined space kit, for example, all of the above are included: (1) confined space gas detector; (2) ventilation blower with the attached 15′ of duct; (3) fall protection rescue harness; (4) rescue tripod, rescue winch, self retracting lifeline, pulley and carabiners.

Each one of these pieces of equipment is needed to safely enter, work in, and exit a confined space.

The gas detector is necessary to check the space before entry and then to continuously monitor the space upon entry.

The ventilation blower is needed to recirculate the air for a healthier work environment. Importantly, it is also needed to refresh the air if the gas detector determines the presence of toxic conditions.

The rescue tripod, winch, retractable lifeline, and harness allow for safe entry, fall protection, and rescue (if needed).

Differences Between Confined Space Kits

The main differences between the various confined space kits are found in the variety of components that are available.

The gas detector, for example, might be a diffusion type, or have an internal pump that connects to sample tubing. The detectors might also differ in power source – some using alkaline batteries and some using rechargeable batteries.

The ventilation blowers are usually 8″ blowers with either 15′ or 25′ of duct. The most common power source offered is electric. However, gas and pneumatic powered blowers are often available. It’s important to make sure that a duct carrier is included – like the blower system pictured above.

Differences in the rescue tripods are generally found in the type/number of winches offered. The most common configuration is a basic rescue winch with a self retracting lifeline mounted to the top of the tripod (as pictured above). Some kits may offer a 3-way winch in place of the basic winch. Some kits may offer a 3-way winch, a basic winch, and a self retracting lifeline.

Which Confined Space Kit Is Right For Me?

It’s important to remember that the differences between the kits are not in their safety approvals. Any decent kit will meet the OSHA stipulated ANSI standards. Generally, deciding which kit is best for you comes down to personal preference and budget.

A 3-way winch, for example, is more convenient than a normal winch, but is quite a bit more money. A gas detector with an internal sample pump is more convenient for remote sampling, but it is also more money. A diffusion detector can also test remotely. All one needs to do is tie a rope to it and lower it down into the space. Blowers with 25′ duct seem more appealing, but rarely is 25′ of duct needed.

If you have any questions, or need help deciding, don’t hesitate to ask us. We are glad to help. Note – you can find a variety of confined space kits at majorsafety.com. Click Here to view the various kits available.

OSHA Competent Person

OSHA Competent Person – Who Is It?

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Competent Person requirements tend to be confusing. I think we can help. We’ll start with OSHA’s definition and then simplify it a bit.

The OSHA topic page defines competent person as follows:

The term “Competent Person” is used in many OSHA standards and documents. An OSHA “competent person” is defined as “one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them” [29 CFR 1926.32(f)]. By way of training and/or experience, a competent person is knowledgeable of applicable standards, is capable of identifying workplace hazards relating to the specific operation, and has the authority to correct them. Some standards add additional specific requirements which must be met by the competent person.

So at a minimum, a competent person (“CP”) has the following qualities:

  • (1) Capability
  • (2) Specific Knowledge
  • (3) Authority

Capability

What this means is that the “CP” possesses the ability to identify unsafe conditions, equipment, and procedures specific to whatever area over which they have been deemed a “CP” – such as, for example, confined space entry.

The question of how this ability is obtained leads us to the second quality of a competent person.

Specific Knowledge

The “CP” possesses specific knowledge by either experience or training. Ideally, he or she should have both.

Using our confined space example, we could say the following. The “CP” would need to know the OSHA Confined Space Standards. For example, they would need to know things like entry, rescue, and entrant duties and how to implement them at the work site.

They would need to understand the use and operation of the tripod rescue equipment. This would include things like operation of the winch, and set up of the tripod. They would need to know and verify that such equipment is routinely inspected per the manufacturer’s instructions.

The “CP” would need to understand the use and operation of the gas detection equipment. For example, they would need to insure that it is working to factory specs and that it has a current calibration.

Major Safety Complete Confined Space Kit

This picture shows just a few of the items the Confined Space “CP” would need to have knowledge about. You can see more at the Confined Space page at majorsafety.com.

 

 

Authority

Finally, the first two are worthless unless the “CP” possesses the authority to act on any unsafe condition, equipment or procedure that he or she finds.

For example, if the “CP” does not have the authority to pull an entrant who is unable to properly operate a gas detector, then they aren’t an OSHA competent person.

And if the “CP” is not authorized to stop a job upon finding that the gas detector is out of calibration, then they aren’t an OSHA competent person.

Competent Person Equals – Capability, Knowledge, Authority

Remember these three things as you designate or act as your company’s OSHA competent person. Doing so will insure that everyone comes home safely.

 

Major Safety Complete Confined Space Kit

Confined Space Safety 101

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A growing number of contractors are expanding into jobs with unfamiliar safety risks. Confined space entry is one such example. With some basic understanding of the hazards faced and ways to address them, unnecessary confined space safety risks can be avoided.

Confined Space Safety Risks

The following infographic illustrates confined space safety risks:

confined space safety risks

Some of the obvious risks include toxic gases, engulfment, oxygen deficiency, explosion, and fire.

The less obvious risks, but just as dangerous, include a lack of familiarity with (1) the OSHA requirements, and (2) the required safety equipment.

Confined Space Safety OSHA Requirements

Below are some excellent resources that summarize the OSHA confined space requirements:

It is important to grasp the number of people required for one to safely enter a confined space. OSHA calls for an entrant, an attendant and a supervisor. Each has their own separate responsibilities (not all enter the space).

It is important to understand the actions required before a confined space can be entered. For example, it is necessary to test the space (before and during entry), fill out the permit, set up/provide the rescue equipment, ventilate the space (if necessary), and train all involved.

Confined Space Safety Equipment

No amount of understanding of the OSHA requirements will do any good without the necessary confined space safety equipment.

The required items will usually include at least the following items:

  • Gas Monitor – used for atmospheric testing.
  • Blower and Duct – used for ventilation of confined space.
  • Tripod Rescue System – used for safely rescuing a worker (and lowering in some cases).
  • Fall Protection Harness – used in tandem with rescue tripod.

Major Safety Complete Confined Space Safety KitGasAlert Max XT II Confined Space Safety Gas MonitorMiller Confined Space Safety Rescue TripodRamFan UB20 Confined Space Safety Blower

Those involved in confined space entry must be trained in the use of this equipment by a competent person. The instruction manuals must be read and understood.

Much of this equipment can be purchased in a single kit – as in the first picture above.

There are simply too many resources available to remain in the dark about the risks associated with confined space entry. Reading this article is a great start, but don’t stop there. Take advantage of all the info provided.

All the pics are linked to products at Major Safety. There you can get additional info, purchase, or contact us with more questions. We are happy to help.

by Corby Amos

 

Miller Confined Space Rescue Tripod

Confined Space Rescue Tripod – Which One?

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When shopping for a confined space entry rescue tripod system, it doesn’t take long to realize just how varied the choices are. These differences make it difficult to determine which tripod system is best suited to your application and budget. Below are a few things to consider that will improve your chances of making the best decision.

KNOW YOUR CONFINED SPACE ENTRY TRIPOD REQUIREMENTS

A tripod rescue system is intended to help comply with OSHA confined space (1910.146) and fall protection (1910.132) standards (States may have their own standards as well).

Specifically, a properly equipped tripod system will help you meet requirements for – (1) lowering/raising; (2) fall protection; (3) rescue/retrieval. Think of each one as a single leg on a “requirements stool”. If the stool is missing one leg, it falls over – it doesn’t meet the requirements.

KNOW YOUR CONFINED SPACE RESCUE TRIPOD COMPONENTS

There are a number of tripod components available to safely comply with these requirements – to build the “requirements stool”. It is here that the differences between systems should begin to make sense to you.

A confined space tripod system can consist of a mixture of the following components – (1) the rescue/retrieval winch; (2) the combination rescue winch/self retracting lifeline; (3) a self retracting lifeline.

When looking at the components keep in mind this simple axiom – no one component can be all three legs on the stool.

Rescue/Retrieval Winch

The basic rescue/retrieval winch is manually operated by hand. It comes in varying lengths and cable materials. The norm is usually a galvanized cable ranging from 50′ to 65′.

Of the 3 requirements cited above (the “requirements stool”) – lowering/raising, fall protection, rescue/retrieval – which ones will the basic winch fulfill? It serves as the raising/lowering and rescue/retrieval. This means that the fall protection requirement is missing. It can be met by the use of a ladder, self retracting lifeline or a combination winch/lifeline.

Miller Confined Space Rescue TripodFrenchCreek Confined Space Rescue Tripod

Combination Rescue Winch/Self Retracting Lifeline

The combination unit combines both the rescue capacity of the basic winch and the convenience of a self retracting lifeline in one unit. With the handle engaged, one cranks the worker up or down if needed. With the handle disengaged, no cranking is required – the cable extends and retracts automatically with the worker. It comes in varying lengths and cable materials. The norm is usually a galvanized cable of 50′.

Of the 3 requirements cited above (the “requirements stool”) – lowering/raising, fall protection, rescue/retrieval – which ones will the combination winch/lifeline fulfill? It serves as fall protection and rescue/retrieval when used with a ladder. It serves as fall protection when used with a basic winch. It serves as rescue/retrieval when used with a stand alone self retracting lifeline and a ladder.

What about the raising/lowering requirement? It depends – some manufacturers do not approve their combination units for routine raising/lowering. So you would still need a ladder or basic winch to fulfill the raising/lower requirement.

So what is the benefit of this component? It provides rescue redundancy when used with a basic winch, and is a convenience when a ladder is present. Because the cable can extend and retract automatically with the worker, the attendant does not have to crank the worker up or down the ladder like he would with the basic winch.

Are there any drawbacks? (1) They are expensive and are the reason some tripod systems are so much more expensive than others. (2) And in an emergency situation the user has to remember how to engage the handle for rescue. This could be a problem for some workers.

DBI Sala Sala Lift II Tripod SystemFrenchCreek R50G Combination Winch SRL Tripod System

Self Retracting Lifeline

The self retracting lifeline extends and retracts automatically with the worker. It is hung from the top of the tripod by means of a carabiner attached to an eyebolt. It comes in varying lengths and cable materials. The norm is usually a galvanized cable of 30′ – 50′.

Of the 3 requirements cited above (the “requirements stool”) – lowering/raising, fall protection, rescue/retrieval – which ones will the combination winch fulfill? The self retracting lifeline is always fall protection.

Protecta Rebel Self Retracting LifelineDBI Sala Ultralok Self Retracting Lifeline

Our Most Popular Systems

Tripods with Basic Winch:

Tripods with Combination Winch/Lifeline:

Self Retracting Lifelines:

 

by Corby Amos