Confined Space Safety: Why Proper Training is Non-Negotiable in Australian workplaces

Working in confined spaces presents an array of unique challenges and risks, and so should never be taken lightly.

Proper safety protocols and training is absolutely essential whether in construction, mining, manufacturing, utilities or any other industry. Under Australian WHS laws, businesses have a legal duty to ensure worker safety through risk assessments, control measures, and comprehensive training.

What Are the Legal Requirements Around Working in a Confined Space?

In Australia, confined space work is regulated under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations 2011, which outline employer responsibilities to ensure worker safety. These include:

Risk Assessments

A full assessment must be conducted before entry to identify hazards and required control measures.

Entry Permits

If required, a Confined Space Entry Permit must be issued before workers can enter. The permit should specify:
- The nature of the work
- Identified hazards
- Safety controls in place
- Time limits for entry
- Emergency procedures

Atmospheric Testing

Employers must monitor oxygen levels and toxic gases before and during entry.

Emergency Response Planning

Businesses must have a clear rescue plan in case of an emergency.

Provision of PPE and Safety Equipment

Employers must provide gas detectors, ventilation equipment, harnesses, and communication systems to ensure safety.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in heavy fines and legal penalties.

What can be defined as a confined space?

A confined space is an area that:

Is not designed for continuous occupancy

Has restricted entry and exit

Poses a risk due to hazardous conditions such as oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, or extreme temperatures

These spaces often have poor ventilation and can quickly become dangerous, requiring strict safety protocols before entry.

What Are Some Examples of Working in a Confined Space?

Confined spaces can be found across various industries and may include:

Tanks, silos, and storage vessels

Sewers, pipes, and underground tunnels

Manholes

Boilers and pressure vessels

Wells and underground vaults

Grain storage bins and silage pits

What Makes Working in a Confined Space So Risky?

Confined spaces are among the most dangerous work environments due to:

Oxygen Deficiency

Poor ventilation can lead to dangerously low or high oxygen levels, causing suffocation.

Toxic Gas Exposure

Gases like carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulphide can accumulate, often without warning.

Fire and Explosion Risks

Flammable substances and vapours can ignite, posing a severe hazard.

Entrapment and Engulfment

Workers can become trapped by shifting materials such as grain, sand, or liquids.

Heat Stress and Exhaustion

Poor airflow and extreme temperatures increase the risk of heat-related illness.

A single mistake in a confined space can be fatal, making proper safety planning essential.

What Are the Training Requirements for Working in a Confined Space?

Under Australian law, workers must complete nationally recognised Confined Space Entry and Rescue Training before undertaking confined space work. This training covers:

Understanding confined space hazards

Proper use of safety equipment, including harnesses, gas monitors, and ventilation systems

Safe entry and exit procedures to prevent entrapment

Emergency response and rescue techniques, including first aid

For high-risk environments, additional training in atmospheric monitoring, fire safety, and fall protection may be required.

Training Courses at Life International

At Life International Training, we offer RIIOHS202E Enter and Work in Confined Space Training, as well as a range of other safety and evacuation courses. You can browse them here: https://lifeint.com.au/training.html

Call 1300 888 765