Assessments are required nationally for the wellbeing of all individuals working in confined spaces.
Because entering or working in a confined space can be hazardous and may impose extra physiological demands, evaluation of each person’s medical condition is required.
All persons SHOULD be medically assessed and then reassessed at appropriate intervals (every 12 months unless otherwise indicted by the examiner) as competent to perform activities relevant to their entry and work associated with the confined space.
What’s involved?
Examples include storage tanks, silos, pits, sewers, pipes and ducts, tanker vessels, boilers, pressure vessels and some trenches or shafts where the atmosphere may be unsafe. A space is a confined space under WHS laws when it is enclosed or partly enclosed, not designed for people to occupy, and has a risk from its atmosphere, contaminants or engulfment.
AS 2865 Confined spaces is the Australian Standard, and Safe Work Australia’s model Code of Practice: Confined spaces gives practical guidance on meeting WHS duties. Check with your state or territory regulator whether the Code has legal effect in your jurisdiction.
Confined space deaths are commonly associated with unsafe atmospheres, such as too little oxygen or toxic or flammable gases, as well as engulfment. This is why atmospheric testing, ventilation, permits and planned rescue arrangements are central to confined space safety.
A confined space medical may include occupational and respiratory history, cardiovascular, respiratory and neurological examination, lung function testing, a musculoskeletal assessment, hearing and skin checks, and an aerobic fitness assessment. It helps determine whether the worker can safely wear breathing apparatus and work in a restrictive environment.
Periodic reassessment is commonly done every 12 months unless the examining doctor recommends otherwise, for example after illness or injury. Employees Health can provide onsite confined space medicals for maintenance, utilities, water and resources workforces anywhere in Australia.
