8-Mechanical Lifting

The Whys?

The invisible character of the atmospheres in a confined space is often at the origin of the accidental mechanisms (poisoning; suffocations, burns.). The identification and prevention of such risks depend on prior genuine analysis and a real knowledge of the implemented procedures and materials, even during particular interventions or works.

Implied supervision during the phases of preparation, authorization, progress and closure of all operations is essential to risk mastery.

The must do's

Any entry to a confined space must at least comply with the following conditions :

• Conduct a specific risk analysis and define the prevention means adapted to each intervention in a confined space ;

                -    The prevention and protection plan (rescue plan) representing the risks ;

                -    The specific procedures of intervention in confined spaces ;

                -    The lock-out plans of energies and fluids.

• Appoint an authorizing person, a watchman and an operation supervisor, all of whom being habilitated ;
• Beacon the concerned zones and volumes, display the hazards, and prevent any non-authorized access ;
• Lock-out the energy and fluid sources ;
• Be sure about the qualification of the intervening parties and the availability of all the adequate prevention and protection means, including the PPE’s, the specific fixed and mobile detectors, the effective test of the rescue plan ;
• Deliver, communicate and display the authorization of entry ;
• Check the control of the atmosphere before and during any intervention until return to normal exploitation ;
• Have the intervening person permanently watched by at least a second habilitated person who himself must be watched in the event of a rescue intervention ;
• Be sure about the availability of a competent and adequately equipped rescue team in the event of an intervention with all tools and equipment necessary for the intervention.

The putting-back-into-service procedure must be integrated within the work permit, including re-conformity of the confined space.