Confined Spaces Archives - ITS - Industry Training Services

Confined Space Training Delivered at Belfast’s New Grand Central Station

Posted on January 9, 2025 by Marketing

We were delighted to recently deliver our Confined Space: Safe Entry, Breathing Apparatus, and Self-Rescue Training on-site for Belton Construction Services at the brand-new Grand Central Station in Belfast. This exciting training opportunity combined classroom-based learning with practical, hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art mobile training unit, offering a comprehensive and engaging approach to confined space safety.

A Partnership at “Game Changer” Site

The new Grand Central Station, which opened after four years of construction, is a milestone for Northern Ireland’s public transport system and is now the largest integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland. Replacing both Great Victoria Street Station and the Europa Bus Centre, it is expected to serve around 20 million customer journeys each year. Partnering with Belton Construction Services at such a site was a privilege and reflects a joint commitment to supporting industry professionals with top-tier training.

Comprehensive Training for Real-World Safety

Confined Space training with ITS blends classroom-based theory and practical exercises designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required for future confined space work. The practical component was held in our mobile training unit, which boasts a 30 m tunnel network with smoke simulation to create a realistic and challenging training environment. Candidates donned full breathing apparatus, practiced safe entry techniques, and rehearsed rescue scenarios to ensure they are prepared for the demands of real-world situation.

Why Choose Our Confined Space Mobile Training Unit?

Our mobile training unit brings industry-leading training directly to your site, reducing costs, disruption, and administration while delivering exceptional value. Key benefits include:

On-Site Convenience: We come to you, anywhere in Ireland, saving time and resources.
Accredited Training: Participants receive accredited training from experienced industry practitioners, earning 1 CPD point for every hour completed.
Realistic Simulations: Our 30m tunnel network, equipped with smoke, provides a safe yet realistic environment for hands-on learning.
All Equipment Provided: From harnesses and tripods to breathing apparatus and monitors, we supply everything needed, eliminating hire costs.
Quick Setup: The unit is operational in just 15 minutes, minimising downtime and disruption to business.

Building a Safer Future

The training at Grand Central Station continues to highlight the importance of equipping teams with the skills needed to navigate high-risk environments safely. By delivering this training in a practical, engaging manner, we ensure that participants leave confident and capable.

We are proud to play a role in fostering safety excellence at such a pivotal new site for Northern Ireland’s infrastructure and look forward to supporting more projects with our comprehensive training solutions.

If your organisation is looking for on-site training solutions that deliver results, get in touch with us today. Together, we’ll build a safer workplace, no matter where your site is located!

Safety on the Horizon: Mobile Confined Space Training with Aer Lingus

Posted on January 9, 2025January 9, 2025 by Marketing

Partnering with Aer Lingus

Industry Training Services (ITS) recently conducted Confined Space: Safe Entry, Breathing Apparatus, and Self-Rescue training for Aer Lingus at our brand-new training facility in Dublin. Founded in 1936, Aer Lingus, operates a fleet of modern aircraft connecting Ireland to destinations across Europe, North America, and beyond. As Ireland’s national airline, it is renowned for its commitment to safety, reliability, and exceptional service. This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to enhancing workplace safety and equipping teams with essential skills to respond effectively in various environments.

Recognising Risks in the Aerospace Industry

The aerospace industry presents unique challenges, particularly in technical operations and maintenance, where confined spaces and complex environments are common. Recognising these risks, Aer Lingus has proactively sought to ensure their teams are equipped to navigate such hazards safely. Partnering with Industry Training Service, a leading provider of specialised training, Aer Lingus has further demonstrated its dedication to upholding the highest safety standards for its personnel.

Comprehensive Confined Space Training for Aer Lingus

The confined space training for Aer Lingus was structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience, blending theory and practical application. The classroom-based portion of the training covered critical topics, including confined space hazards, PPE and required equipment, legal requirements and risk assessments. Participants gained a deep understanding of the risks, and the protocols needed to mitigate and evaluate working conditions within a confined space.

State-of-the-Art Practical Training

In addition to the theory-based element of the training, all hands-on components were conducted in Industry Training Services’ state-of-the-art mobile training unit. This unique facility is designed to replicate real-life confined space scenarios, complete with controlled smoke environments to simulate reduced visibility. After practicing safe entry from the top of the unit, trainees donned breathing apparatus halfway through the exercise, navigating the more challenging conditions and self-rescue techniques in a controlled, yet realistic, setting. The immersive nature of this practical training not only reinforced the classroom lessons but also built confidence and competence in handling confined space emergencies.

Commitment to Workplace Safety

Partnering with Aer Lingus on this initiative has been an excellent opportunity to contribute to a safer working environment for their teams. By investing in robust programs like Confined Space training, Aer Lingus is taking proactive steps to ensure their employees are prepared to handle potentially hazardous situations with professionalism and skill.

‘I thought it was excellent training, worth doing. The instructor had experience, had confidence, and ran us through the drills really well. I certainly think I would recommend it to any company. This is our first time doing it [Confined Space Training], and we can see where we have issues that we need to sort out.’ – Colm Fogarty, Technical Shift Controller, Aer Lingus Maintenance

Dedication to Excellence

Industry Training Service, pride themselves on delivering high-class training solutions tailored to the needs of every client, as is encapsulated by the testimonial from Colm Fogarty, Technical Shift Controller with Aer Lingus Maintenance.

ITS offers a wide selection of courses designed to meet diverse training needs, ensuring that every client receives a program tailored to their specific requirements. Their confined space mobile training unit makes training accessible to all, throughout the island of Ireland. Whether it’s confined space training, emergency first aid, or other specialised areas, their mission is to provide exceptional training experiences that prioritise health and safety.

Confined Space Training: Why Every Worker Needs This Life-Saving Skill

Posted on November 13, 2024November 13, 2024 by Marketing

Working in confined spaces is a high-risk activity that requires specialised skills, equipment, and preparation. Confined spaces—defined by their limited access and restricted airflow—present a variety of hazards, including toxic gases, poor ventilation, and the potential for entrapment. These risks make some of the most dangerous environments for industrial workers, and every year, accidents and fatalities occur due to improper safety measures or lack of training. However, ensuring that workers have proper training can mean the difference between life and death when working within confined spaces.

What Are Confined Spaces?

A confined space is defined as any place where:

There is a risk of serious injury due to hazardous substances or dangerous conditions (such as lack of oxygen), and
The space is substantially enclosed (either fully or partially), making it difficult to enter or exit i.e. chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench, pipe, sewer, flue, well, or other similar space.

Workers may be unaware of these dangers without proper training, leading to serious accidents or fatalities.

Why Confined Space Training is Essential

When an accident happens in a confined space, the window for rescue is extremely narrow. Untrained workers may enter the space to attempt a rescue, only to become victims themselves. This “domino effect” is common making training essential for any worker involved in this type of work. Those who are appropriately trained to work in confined spaces and in self-rescue are better equipped to:

Assess the risks before entering.
Follow safe entry and exit procedures.
Respond quickly and safely in an emergency.
Use specialised rescue equipment effectively.

Both the UK and Ireland have strict regulations governing work in confined spaces and make it clear that it is only to be carried out by trained individuals with proper rescue plans in place.

Key Elements of Confined Space Training

ITS offers comprehensive programmes for various environments, designed to ensure that workers have the knowledge and skills to assess and recognise risks and how to respond effectively in case there is an emergency. Key components include:

Hazard Awareness: Workers are trained to identify risks such as toxic gases, low oxygen levels, and potential for engulfment.
PPE and Equipment: Training on essential personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators, ropes, and helmets. They are also taught how to operate equipment like tripods, winches, and gas detectors effectively.
Safe Entry and Exit Procedures: The correct methods for safely entering and exiting confined spaces without endangering themselves or others.
Rescue Techniques: Practical training on how to perform a rescue in different environments, using techniques that minimise risks.
Emergency Communication: Workers must understand how to establish effective communication channels during an emergency, ensuring help is summoned quickly and clearly.

One of our most innovative solutions is our specialised mobile confined space unit. This mobile training facility allows us to deliver practical, hands-on training at any location, ensuring that workers receive realistic, high-quality instruction without the need to travel. Our mobile unit is equipped with everything needed give any team the chance to practice rescue scenarios in a controlled setting.

Our mobile unit has already travelled across Ireland; from Belfast to Dublin, Sligo to Wicklow. We have revolutionised the Confined Space training we can provide to our customers with this state-of-the art unit.

Conclusion

Confined space training is a vital skill for anyone working in hazardous environments. Ensuring that your workers are fully trained in confined space safety, equipped with proper PPE, and prepared for emergency situations is not just about compliance —it’s about protecting lives.

ITS is committed to providing the highest level of confined space training with our extensive facilities and specialised mobile confined space unit. Prioritising confined space training is a crucial step in safeguarding workers, reducing risks, and maintaining a safe and efficient work environment across our entire industry.

The roles of confined space supervisor: Leadership and best practices

Posted on July 16, 2024September 10, 2024 by Marketing

When it comes to confined spaces, the role of a confined space supervisor is not just pivotal but potentially lifesaving for others. Confined spaces, which include tanks, tunnels, sewers, and silos, pose unique hazards that require a high level of oversight and specialised knowledge. This blog explores the critical roles supervisors play in these environments, highlighting leadership qualities and best practices essential for ensuring safety and compliance.

Understanding the Importance of a Confined Space Supervisors role

On the HSE website it states that in the UK and Ireland, it is estimated that 15 workers are injured or killed each year in confined spaces due to a lack of proper supervision and safety measures. This statistic underscores the necessity for stringent oversight and the implementation of best practices by supervisors.

Leadership in Confined Spaces

1. Safety Advocate

A confined space supervisor’s foremost responsibility is to champion safety. This involves conducting thorough risk assessments before any work begins. Supervisors must ensure that all potential hazards are identified and that appropriate measures, such as ventilation, gas detection, and personal protective equipment (PPE), are in place. They need to cultivate a culture where safety is prioritised above all else.

2. Training and Competence

Ensuring that all team members are adequately trained is another crucial aspect of a supervisor’s role. This includes regular drills and refresher courses on emergency procedures, proper use of equipment, and understanding the specific dangers of the confined space they are working in. Supervisors must also verify that each worker holds the necessary certifications and skills to perform their tasks safely.

Best Practices for Confined Space Supervision

1. Pre-Entry Procedures

Before anyone enters a confined space, supervisors must ensure that a comprehensive entry permit system is in place. This system should document the hazards identified, safety measures implemented, and emergency procedures. It’s also vital to have an up-to-date rescue plan tailored to the specific confined space.

2. Continuous Monitoring

During operations within confined spaces, supervisors need to maintain constant communication with workers. This can be achieved through the use of radios or other communication devices. Supervisors should also monitor atmospheric conditions continuously, using gas detectors to check for oxygen deficiency or the presence of toxic gases.

3. Emergency Preparedness

Confined space supervisors must be prepared to respond swiftly to emergencies. This includes having a trained rescue team on standby and ensuring that all workers know the emergency procedures. Regularly scheduled emergency drills can help ensure that both supervisors and workers are prepared to act quickly and effectively in the event of an incident.

Conclusion

Supervisors in confined spaces carry a significant responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of their teams. By being vigilant safety advocates, ensuring comprehensive training, adhering to best practices, and leveraging technology, they can mitigate risks and protect lives. The statistic from the UK and Ireland highlights the critical nature of this role, emphasising that effective supervision is not just best practice—it is a necessity.

For those in a confined space supervisor role, continually update knowledge and skills, staying informed about the latest safety regulations, and fostering a culture of safety within the team are essential steps towards excellence in confined space supervision.

By understanding and embracing their critical roles, supervisors can lead with confidence, ensuring that every confined space operation is conducted safely and efficiently.

At ITS we offer a Confined Space for Managers course and also a range of Confined Space courses that can also be delivered on site with our Confined Space mobile unit.

If you would like to book or enquire about any of these courses, contact us on:

Dublin HQ: 01 891 6105

Portadown HQ: 028 3839 8700

info@industrytrainingservices.com

A study of Personal Protective Equipment for Safe Confined Space Entry and Exit

Posted on February 8, 2024September 10, 2024 by Marketing

Confined spaces pose unique challenges that demand meticulous planning and the right equipment. This blog will discuss the intricacies of safeguarding workers in confined spaces and the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Confined Space entry.

Defining Confined Spaces

To understand the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for confined spaces, we first need to define what constitutes these environments. Examples of confined spaces are:

Tunnels
Storage tanks
Manholes
Tanks and Vessels

A solid grasp of these unique challenges forms the foundation for developing robust exit and entry plans.

Elements of an Effective Entry and Exit Plan

Crafting a successful entry and exit plan is an intricate process that involves multiple components. This section breaks down the essential elements, from risk assessments to communication protocols, ensuring a comprehensive approach to safety. A well-designed plan can mitigate potential hazards and create a safer working environment.

1. Risk Assessments:

Conduct thorough assessments to identify potential hazards within confined spaces. Understanding these risks allows for targeted strategies to mitigate them, ensuring a safer working environment.

2. Communication Protocols:

Establish clear communication channels using devices like two-way radios. Clearly define emergency signals and procedures for regular check-ins to facilitate effective communication between personnel inside and outside the confined space.

3. Emergency Response Procedures:

Develop detailed emergency response procedures, including evacuation routes, rescue protocols, and the location of emergency equipment. Conduct regular drills to familiarise personnel with these procedures, promoting swift and efficient responses in case of unforeseen circumstances.

The Crucial Role of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Confined Spaces acts as a lifeline, providing a crucial layer of defence against various hazards. We explore the specific types of PPE required, from respiratory protection to specialised clothing, and discuss how each plays a vital role in ensuring worker safety. Underlining the importance of selecting the right equipment for the unique challenges posed by confined spaces.

Respiratory Protection:

In confined spaces with air quality risks, such as harmful gases, respirators or self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) serve as a vital defence. They ensure workers breathe clean air, safeguarding them from potentially hazardous atmospheres.

Protective Clothing:

The correct protective clothing, including coveralls, gloves, and boots, these shield workers from physical hazards, chemicals, and contaminants present in confined spaces. Selecting appropriate PPE based on the specific risks, enhances overall safety.

Fall Protection Equipment:

For confined spaces with vertical entry points, fall protection is critical. Harnesses, lifelines, and other fall arrest systems prevent accidents during entry and exit manoeuvres, ensuring workers are protected from potential falls.

Legal Requirements

In Northern Ireland, wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at work, including confined spaces, is legally mandated by the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978. Employers must provide and ensure proper use of PPE to address workplace risks, with non-compliance leading to legal consequences.

Likewise, in the South of Ireland, The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2001 by the Health and Safety Authority covers all work in relation to confined spaces. With Regulation 5 stating that: A person shall not carry out work in Confined Spaces if it is reasonably practical that it could be avoided.

Our study of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Confined Space Exit and Entry Plans underscores the critical role that well-designed plans and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment play in ensuring worker safety. By staying informed, proactive, and investing in the right PPE, businesses can create a culture of safety within confined spaces, mitigating risks and fostering a secure working environment.

At Industry Training Services we offer confined space training anywhere across the island of Ireland with our confined space mobile training unit, as well as at our training facilities in Portadown and Dublin. For further information or to book visit: https://www.industrytrainingservices.com/training-courses/confined-spaces/ or contact us: Dublin 01 891 6105, Portadown 028 3839 8700