A confined space monitor is an electronic device used to determine and measure the presence and levels of potentially hazardous environmental elements such as gases, dusts and vapours that may be apparent in confined spaces. Some of the most popular confined space monitor models feature multiple-sensors to detect several varieties of gas including the highly flammable hydrogen sulfide and carbon monoxide, as well as oxygen. The most cutting-edge monitors measure up to six gases simultaneously.
The process of confined space monitoring is most commonly carried out in work-related confined spaces such as trenches, boilers, sewers, silos, ship compartments, degrease and storage tanks. In order for a confined space monitor to be used properly, it's essential that some basic rules are followed. Here are four of the key Do's and Don’ts of using a confined space monitor:
Do get to know the types of hazards present: It's essential for the safe and appropriate operation of a confined space monitor that you get to know and understand the work area and the kinds of potential hazards that are present in significant depth. This will help you to conduct your monitoring in a cautious way and select the right kind of monitor for the demands of the space.
Don't rely on your senses: A great number of potentially lethal gases are colourless and odourless, so it's very important to realise that you won't necessarily be able to sense the presence of a toxic threat without conducting confined space tests using a confined space monitor. Even gases that do posses a strong odour may only be smelled when at very high concentrations, yet may still cause physical damage to workers at low levels when prolonged exposure occurs. Calibration gas test is recommended by manufacturer to detect and verify correctness and appropriate performance of confined space monitor's alarms, takes only few minutes to accomplish.
Do get training: Simply having a confined space monitor is not enough to guarantee the safety and security of workers in a hazardous work place – you also need to know how to use it correctly to diminish work-related health risks. A range of training courses are often available from the suppliers and manufacturers of the instruments, as well as through online education and hands-on experience in simulated confined spaces.
Don't forget to make an emergency plan: In the event that the confined space officer detects a hazardous situation using a confined space monitor, immediate action will need to be taken to prevent harm to them and others in the work place. It's estimated that up to sixty percent of fatalities occurring in confined spaces are suffered by those attempting rescue efforts in a panicked way rather than following a well-structured plan. A safe rescue plan may include providing ventilation for the confined space, calling for mechanical retrieval assistance and maintaining contact with the trapped workers or testers.
