Understanding Medium Risk Confined Spaces

When it comes to confined spaces, understanding the varying levels of risk is crucial for ensuring the safety of those who enter and work within them. 

At MRS Training and Rescue, we are frequently asked about medium risk confined spaces and what the term means. To clarify this important safety concept, our confined space experts have put together this comprehensive guide. It focuses on four key areas: 

1. Developing and maintaining competence
2. Selection of a training organisation and questions to ask
3. What those managing confined spaces need to be thinking about
4. A high level of what those working in confined spaces need to be aware of

The definition of a medium risk confined space can vary slightly depending on the sector. However, most definitions generally align around the following points:

1. The environment is not normally hazardous.
2. The nature and normal use of the space may increase the likelihood of encountering a specific risk.
3. The work being carried out may possibly introduce a specified risk.
4. The entry and exit from the space may not be simple, and therefore the time to escape should a hazard arise may be extended.

1. Do you know if your employees and contractors are competent to work within a confined space? Do they have the knowledge to effectively identify and control the risks to ensure that they can keep themselves safe? 
2. Do you know that your chosen training provider is an expert in managing and operating within confined spaces? Do they fully appreciate the risks to which your employees may be exposed? Can they demonstrate what it means to keep your people safe?
3. Are the qualifications you're providing your employees regulated, accredited, and audited by external bodies? These organisations ensure that the training's quality—covering aspects like the venue, content, equipment, and final assessment—meets the standards necessary to keep your employees safe.
4. Do the managers responsible for scheduling work involving entry into confined spaces fully understand the existing and potential risks associated with the planned activities? Are they capable of producing a risk assessment and method statement that ensures the safety of your employees?
5. Do your employees know what the specified risks are — and how these might manifest themselves whilst carrying out the work within the confined space? Do they understand the impact of these specified risks on their personal safety?
6. Can your employees perform the necessary checks on equipment they are expected to use within the confined space?  Do they understand the limitations of that equipment when it comes to keeping themselves safe?
7. Do your employees understand how various gasses may accumulate in a confined space, how to test for those gasses, and the necessary actions and decisions they need to take to keep themselves safe?
8. Should and unplanned event occur, can your employees use an escape set and get themselves to a designated place of safety?
9. Do your employees understand emergency arrangements that are in place — and how to trigger an emergency response?
10. Do you as an employer periodically review and update the competency of the employees who may be required to operate in confined spaces?

At MRS Training and Rescue, we offer specialised training and consultancy services to help organisations ensure their staff are competent, equipped, and prepared to work safely in confined spaces of all kinds — including medium risk confined spaces.

Our comprehensive training programmes are designed to meet the highest standards, providing your team with the knowledge and skills they need to mitigate risks effectively. Book now.

Understanding and managing the risks associated with medium risk confined spaces is vital for the safety of employees and contractors. 

Contact us today to learn more about our training and consultancy services and how we can support your organisation in maintaining a safe working environment.