The Confined Spaces Regulations

CONFINED SPACE A spacc which is substantially, although not always entirely, enclosed and where there is a reasonably foreseeable risk of serious injury from hazardous substances or conditions within the space or nearby. The risks may include flammable substances oxygen deficiency or enrichment toxic gases, fume or vapour ingress or presence of liquids free-flowing solids presence of excessive heat. For the purpose of the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 a confined space means any place, including any chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench, pipe, sewer, flue, well or other similar space in which, by virtue of its enclosed nature, there arises a reasonably foreseeable specified risk. 

Vessel or equipment cleaning can also be automated, e.g. using high-pressure liquid sprays. This is essential, whenever practicable, to avoid entry under the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997. 

The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 lays down the conditions to be met which include ... 

The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 are summarized in Chapter 20. They detail the specific controls that... 

Risk assessment is an essential requirement of the Confined Spaces Regulations and must be done so that a safe system of work may be determined. The risk assessment needs to identify the hazards present in the confined space, assess the risks and determine suitable controls to address those risks. The first part of the risk assessment will determine whether the work can only be done in the confined space. 

The purpose of the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 (CS Regs) is to prevent peopie being exposed to risks to their heaith and safety from such work activities. 

The Confined Spaces Regulations (SI 1997 No 1713) came into force on 28 January 1998, and apply in all premises and circumstances where the Health and Safety at Work Act applies. To comply with the Confined Spaces Regulations it will be necessary to consider other Regulations including COSHH 99, PUWER 98, PPE and MHSWR. The Regulations specify requirements and prohibitions to protect the health and safety of persons working in confined spaces and also those who may be affected by the work. 

Owners and operators are subject to HSWA 1974, sections 2 and 3 in particular. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1992 and The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992, and The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997, all of which impose relevant duties. 

Integrated Pollution Prevention Control Directive 1999 The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997... 

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