Introduction
Confined space entry presents unique and serious risks that must be carefully managed.
At MRS Training & Rescue, we’ve been helping organisations manage these risks for over a century – and while technology is advancing, the fundamentals of confined space safety remain essential.
Read on to learn about the essential elements of modern confined space safety, from understanding the risks and safe systems of work, to role of tech and emergency rescue planning.
Working in Confined Spaces – Understanding the Risks
Confined space work is inherently hazardous. Whether it’s a vessel, silo, tank, or tunnel, atmospheric conditions can change rapidly, access and egress may be restricted, and the potential for injury – or worse – is high.
Each year, workers are seriously harmed or killed due to insufficient planning, training, or emergency preparedness.
These environments require more than basic safety precautions – they demand robust systems and experienced professionals who understand the complexity of the work. Thankfully, there are a number of ways employers can significantly reduce the risks involved.
How to Make Confined Space Entry Safer
Safe Systems of Work
A comprehensive Safe System of Work (SSoW) is the foundation of any safe confined space operation. This includes risk assessments, method statements, permit-to-work systems, atmospheric monitoring, and clearly defined procedures for entry and exit.
No one should enter a confined space without a full understanding of the hazards, the necessary control measures, and the correct use of equipment.
Emergency Rescue Cover – Always in Place
One of the most vital – yet sometimes overlooked – components of confined space safety is having a dedicated confined spaces rescue plan and team on standby.
Should something go wrong, rescue needs to be immediate. Relying on the emergency services alone is not sufficient – entry into confined spaces requires specific skills, training, and equipment.
MRS provides highly trained rescue teams across the UK, offering a rapid and professional response that’s tailored to the needs of each worksite. Learn more about our rescue services, or explore our confined space rescue solutions.
Entry and Exit Monitoring – Introducing VISICS
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in improving confined space safety. One of the latest innovations now available through MRS is the VISICS Digital Monitoring System.
VISICS enhances site safety by providing real-time entry and exit monitoring, digital permit-to-work management, live CCTV feeds, and gas detection integration – all from a remote monitoring hub. This system allows supervisors and safety personnel to maintain constant oversight without physically entering the hazardous environment.
While VISICS doesn’t replace the need for trained personnel or rescue provision, it provides an additional layer of security and insight – particularly for high-risk or multi-entry sites. Read more about how VISICS can improve confined space entry safety here.
Training – For Workers and Managers
Competent workers and supervisors are essential to ensuring confined space procedures are followed correctly and consistently.
At MRS, we offer a full range of confined space training courses – from basic awareness to high-risk, non-standard entries – as well as tailored training for site managers and rescue teams. Our courses are delivered by experts with operational experience, ensuring real-world scenarios are covered, not just textbook theory.
How MRS Can Support
Confined Space Training Courses
Our training centres across the UK feature purpose-built confined space facilities, simulating real working conditions to prepare learners for the challenges they’ll face on site. With over 100 years of experience in dangerous environments, MRS delivers trusted, accredited training that meets national standards.
Rescue Cover – Backed by Heritage and Expertise
With roots in the UK mining industry dating back to 1902, MRS is uniquely qualified to provide expert confined spaces rescue services. Our teams are made up of former firefighters, paramedics, and emergency responders – individuals with the practical experience to manage even the most complex scenarios.
Our services are flexible and scalable – whether you need ongoing rescue cover, support for a one-off job, or a full site safety assessment, MRS can help.
VISICS – Digital Monitoring Now Available
We’re proud to now offer VISICS as part of our confined space safety portfolio. This cutting-edge system complements our existing training and rescue services by offering a digital solution to some of the most common safety and communication challenges faced during confined space work.
VISICS enables proactive monitoring, more efficient workflows, and enhanced protection – without removing the human element that’s still so critical to safety.
Final Thoughts
Making confined space entry safer requires a layered approach: the right procedures, the right people, the right preparation – and where appropriate – the right technology.
Whether it’s training your team, providing standby rescue cover, or deploying the latest digital monitoring systems like VISICS, MRS is here to support your organisation every step of the way.
Get in touch to find out how we can help you build a safer confined space working environment.
Liam Spencer is a high-risk rescue instructor and drone pilot at MRS Mansfield. He leads a team of 20, providing confined space training, consultancy, and drone inspections, while fostering strong client relationships.
