Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
Lexington Division of Fire and Emergency Services
Special Operations Command
Confined Space Manual
May 2008
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................... 1
CERTIFICATION MAINTENANCE........................................................................................ 1
BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................................ 2
HAZARDS .................................................................................................................................. 4
OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS ................................................................................................. 8
CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS ........................................................................15
VII. CONFINED SPACE INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.................................................
VIII. Appendices ..........................................................................................................................................
Page ii
I. INTRODUCTION
ν Purpose
The purpose of this document is to establish standards for organization, safety,
training and operations of confined space operations.
ν Authority
The Department in accordance with Department Standard Operating Procedures
SOP 572.17
Kentucky’s governing body is Kentucky Occupational Safety & Health (KOSH) as
mandated by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) section 29
CFR 1910.146.
ν Intent
The intent of this manual is to provide all members a reference material that
establishes department standards that lead to effectively mitigating confined space
emergencies. It is further understood that this document was developed based on
safety considerations for both victim(s) and rescuer(s) in accordance with OSHA
standards.
Due to the potential hazards involved at a confined space operation, the procedures
outlined in this manual shall personnel and victim(s).
be followed to ensure the safety of all emergency
II. CERTIFICATION MAINTENANCE
ν
To maintain certification, personnel must follow the guidelines established in the
Technical Rescue Operations Manual. OSHA code 29 CFR 1910.146 (k)(2)(iv) further
requires:
“Employees practice making permit space rescues at least once every 12
months, by means of simulated rescue operations in which they remove
dummies, manikins, or actual persons from the actual permit space or from
representative permit space”.
III. BACKGROUND
Definition
ν Confined Space — A space that has the following characteristics:
It is configured so that a person can enter and perform assigned work.
Has limited or restricted means of entry or exit.
Is not designed for continuous human occupancy.
A Permit Required Confined Space may also have one or more of the following
characteristics:
Contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere.
Contains a material that has the potential for engulfment or entrapment.
Has an internal configuration such as that an entrant could be trapped or
asphyxiated by inward converging walls or by a floor that slopes downward and
tapers to a smaller cross section.
Contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.
Overview of the Problem
ν A variety of circumstances exist that cause confined space rescue operations to be
dangerous, difficult and confusing. A confined space that appears to be harmless can
deceive an untrained rescuer, luring them into a potentially fatal situation. Over fifty
percent of deaths in confined space are rescuers. Even after National Institute of
Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) put out and alert of the dangers of confined space
the death rate for rescuers climbed to 60%. Potential for new incidents are increasing
because of:
New utilities being built underground.
Maintenance and repairs of existing underground utilities and storage spaces.
Increased entry into confined space by construction workers, industrial workers, and
utility company personnel and public works employees on a daily basis.
Lack of formal training in confined space hazards and safe work practices in industry
or the private sector.
Unauthorized or accidental entries by mischievous, adventurous or unlucky
individuals.
The infrequency of confined space situations result in limited experience upon which
to base operational decisions.
Lack of formalized training for the rescuers:
Situations can easily develop which are beyond the team’s capability.
Relatively simple rescue situations become complex when they occur within a
confined space.
III. BACKGROUND
Problem Sites
ν The following areas are examples that may present a potentially hazardous situation and
should be treated as a confined space:
Manholes
Utility vaults
Tunnels
Sewer systems, storm/sanitary
Wells/cisterns
Trench/excavations
Open pits
Sump pits/sump rooms
Silos
Storage bins
Hoppers
Brewer vats
Septic tanks
Caves/ mines
Tank cars
Reaction vessels
Industrial smoke stacks/chimneys/boilers
Collapsed structures- below grade basements
Cold storage facilities
Large industrial transformers
Ship holds
Auto repair lift pits
Water treatment plants- carbon tanks, diffusers
Sanitary sewer pumping station
Blind elevator shafts/ elevator pits
IV. HAZARDS
ν Each confined space has its own specific problems and hazards. In order to protect
personnel from being injured or killed they must be well trained and understand the
hazards they encounter. The hazards can be categorized into two parts:
Atmospheric hazards
Physical/Mechanical hazards
Atmospheric Hazards
ν Atmospheric hazards are not easily seen, smelled, heard or felt and can represent deadly
risks to those who must work around or enter confined spaces. Rescuers must realize
that a 1% drop in oxygen may indicated and increase of 10,000 PPM of another
substance.
Oxygen Deficient or Enriched
ν Any atmosphere containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen by volume is considered
oxygen deficient. Any atmosphere containing more than 23.5 percent oxygen by volume
is considered oxygen enriched. Oxygen concentrations can change for four main reasons.
ν Consumption:
Combustion operations such as furnaces, smoke stacks and boilers. The exposed
area can remain low in oxygen long after fire and combustion operations are over.
Bacterial action in oxygen rich sewer systems. An aerobic bacterium eats the
oxygen.
Fermentation actions such as those in brewer vats, grain silos and feed storage bins.
Chemical reaction such as the slow oxidation process, which takes place during
rusting of steel and iron tanks, consumes oxygen.
ν Displacement:
Gases that form within a confined space such as the build up of CO2 and methane in
sewer systems, silos, vats, bins and hoppers, displace oxygen.
Gases introduced from outside the space such as leaking storage tanks or pipelines
and illegal dumping.
Purging operations.
ν Absorption:
Oxygen can be absorbed by a second substance/product such as in carbon storage
tanks and activated charcoal filtering systems
ν Enrichment:
An atmosphere containing more than 23.5% of oxygen is considered oxygen
enriched and enhances the flammability of combustibles.
IV. HAZARDS
Flammable/Combustible Atmosphere
ν OSHA regulation states that a flammable/combustible atmosphere is present when
flammable gas, vapor or mist is present in excess of 10 percent of the lower flammable
limits (LFL) or the LEL. These atmospheres can occur for the following reasons.
ν Biological:
Decaying vegetation/ organic matter which produces methane
Fermentation process such as those in wine vats, storage bins, grain elevators also
produce methane.
Anaerobic bacterial systems such as those in sewer systems, sewage treatment
plants and sanitary landfills have a bacterial metabolic process to deprive area of
oxygen and produce methane.
ν Normal Product Storage:
Where storage of flammable liquids, chemicals and toxins are in a confined space.
ν Maintenance Procedures:
Paints, solvents and residue created.
Cleaning, scaling and painting processes.
ν Inappropriate Presence:
Illegal dumping.
Storage tank leakage entering into a confined space enclosures.
Ruptured pipeline breaks resulting in a product entering a confined space.
ν Airborne Combustible Dust:
An atmosphere is considered hazardous when it has a concentration of combustible
dust that meets or exceeds its lower explosive limits. This condition may be
approximated as a condition in which dust obscures vision at a distance of five feet
or less.
Toxic Atmospheres
ν A substance is considered toxic if the concentrate or dose exceeds the permissible
exposure limit as published in Subpart G, Occupational Health and Environmental
Control, or in Subpart Z, Toxic and hazardous Substances. Each toxic substance has its
own unique guidelines and are too numerous to list.
IV. HAZARDS
Toxic Atmospheres (continued)
ν Naturally Occurring – Biological Decay:
Hydrogen Sulfide – Results from the natural decomposition of sulfur bearing organic
matter. Concentrations in raw sewage are high. Virtually as toxic as hydrogen
cyanide. Recognized as a major hazard in the oil refining and sewage treatment
industries. Has a classic rotten egg odor. Rotten egg odor may not be present at
high concentrations due to paralysis of the olfactory nerve, which controls the sense
of smell.
CO2– Found in aerobic bacteria systems, which produce CO2 as an end product of
its metabolic process.
Methane –
Becomes a simple asphyxiate in high concentrations. Can be found in
areas such as sewers, storage bins, grain elevators, caves, wells and mines.
ν Normal Product Storage and Operation:
Carbon Monoxide - One of the most common asphyxiates encountered in industry.
Sulfur Dioxide – Is the manufacturing by product in some industries. Particularly in
the paper and plastic industry sulfur dioxide is enormous.
Nitrogen Compounds – Widely used in various industrial applications and can affect
the respiratory tract.
ν Inappropriate Presence:
Illegal dumping.
Accidental introduction – pipeline/storage tank leak.
Atmospheric Considerations
Atmospheres that test or appear safe initially can suddenly change for a variety of reasons
including:
ν Disturbance of airflow:
During ventilation or initial opening of a confined space can disturb the natural
airflow.
ν Humidity and Temperature:
Change in temperature and/or humidity can affect the atmosphere.
ν Depletion of Oxygen:
Oxygen levels can become fatally low in a brief period of time in a confined space.
Do not be lulled into a false sense of security by the presence of a conscious patient.
The oxygen levels within the confined space may not support needs of additional
persons (rescuers) entering the confined space. The carbon dioxide from exhaled
breath can displace the available oxygen.
IV. HAZARDS
Atmospheric Considerations (continued)
ν Maintenance Operations:
Scaling operations used to remove loose rust and sediment from tanks. The
petroleum industry has experienced instances where storage tanks were rinsed and
vented for several days. They were tested with monitoring devices that indicated no
hazardous atmosphere. When workers began scaling operations, oxygen deficiency
arose or flammable vapors were released and/or ignited.
ν Disturbance of Residue:
Maintenance workers or rescuers disturb sediment and/or sludge, which may
release flammable or toxic vapors.
ν Stratification of Gases:
Due to vapor densities the atmosphere may result in multiple gases at different
levels within the space. This will directly influence the ventilation and monitoring
techniques.
Physical/Mechanical Hazards
ν The type of physical/mechanical hazard will depend on the specific space encountered
and its primary function. The following are examples of the physical/mechanical hazards
that may be present in or around a confined space:
Electrical
High Water
Steam
Collapse
Smoke/fire
Darkness
Animals, Insects, Reptiles
Moving parts/operating machinery
Flowing product/Engulfment
Unstable contents
Slippery surfaces
Tapered floors/ Converging walls
Hypothermia
Thermal
High Noise Levels
Vibrations
Exposure to Raw Sewage/ Chemicals
Limitations of Rescuers, Skills, Equipment
V. OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS
ν This portion of the confined space manual is written to provide all members with a
reference manual that establishes department standards for effective procedures at
confined space operations. Due to the potential hazards involved at a confined space
operation, the procedures outlined in this manual must be followed to ensure the safety
of all emergency personnel and victim(s).
First Responders
ν Establish Command.
ν Size-up:
Recognize that a confined space emergency exists.
Gather information from on site contacts:
Confined space permit
Number and location of victims
Type of confined space
On site preplans
Determine nature of the emergency:
Trapped
Lost/unaccounted
Injured/medical problem
Body recovery
ν Site control and scene management:
Isolate the space and deny entry.
Establish hot zone of 150 feet in diameter.
Establish staging area for incoming units.
Position non-SOC/TR apparatus outside of the hot zone.
Maintain access for the SOC/TR apparatus.
Control utilities that negatively affect victim (i.e. leaking gas, flowing water or
product, operating machinery, etc.).
ν Request/confirm resources
As every emergency is different, the situation will dictate the need for additional
resources.
Technical Rescue Response
Utility company
Hazardous materials team
Specialized equipment
Research capabilities
Special PPE
Decon if necessary
Police department assistance
V. OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS
First Responders (continued)
ν Recognize and identify hazards:
Hazardous or potential hazardous atmospheres.
Hazardous materials.
Temperature extremes.
Physical and mechanical hazards.
ν Establish communications with victim(s).
Communications should only be attempted if it can be done without entering the
space. All personnel approaching the entrance to the space to make contact shall
don all PPE including SCBA. Under no circumstance shall any part of the first
responder enter the space.
SOC/TR Operations
ν Report to command.
ν Recon the site.
ν Institute the Technical Rescue Operations Incident Command System.
As outlined in the Technical Rescue Operations Manual.
ν Develop action plan:
Evaluate actions and information gathered by the first responder.
Evaluate the confined space permit if applicable.
Answer the following questions:
What is normally stored in the confined space?
What operations are normally performed in the confined space?
What atmosphere could be formed in the confined space?
What has been done differently in the current operation as compared to normal
operations?
Risk benefit analysis – viability of victim/rescuers safety.
Note weather and time of day.
Consult any available preplans:
Blue prints, maps, on site resources.
Number of entry points.
MSDA sheets.
Confined Space Rescue Pre-plan.
V. OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS
SOC/TR Operations (continued)
ν Request additional resources as needed:
Light and air unit
Additional technical rescue units/personnel
Cranes, back hoe, etc
Heating/cooling units
Industrial purging systems
Shelter
Rehab supplies
Haz-Mat Unit
ν Re-assess apparatus positioning:
Ensure exhaust from apparatus not contributing to the problem.
Ensure all non SOC/TR units are clear of the site.
Ensure the scene is accessible for additional TROT resources.
ν Team Briefing:
Clearly define the incident action plan to all rescue team members. The plan and
briefing should include the following:
Site description, including illustration.
Team assignments for the operation.
Personal protective gear requirements.
Communication plan.
Rehabilitation/decontamination procedures.
Emergency evacuation signals and procedures.
ν Pre-entry Procedures:
Rescue Officer (entry supervisor) fills out entry permit
Monitoring:
Approach entry point in full PPE and on breathing air.
Monitor space as described in the monitoring procedures under the Task
Operations Section.
Ventilation:
Begin ventilation as early as possible but not prior to initial monitoring being
completed.
Consider the potential for changing UEL atmosphere into and explosive
atmosphere due to the ventilation.
Consider using on site ventilation system if they are safe to use to supplement
ventilating the space.
Open all openings to the confined space to assist the ventilation process
Use positive pressure ventilation.
Set up fan as described in the ventilation procedures under the task operations
section.
V. OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS
SOC/TR Operations (continued)
Lockout/tag out:
Lockout/tag out as described in the procedures in the task operations section of
this manual.
Control and eliminate ignition sources:
A staffed hose line will be n place when a flammable atmosphere is
encountered or anticipated.
Consider the use of other suppression agents such as foam and dry chemical
Be aware of ignition sources such as vehicles and static electricity.
Entry Preparation and Procedures
ν An Entry Supervisor shall be assigned by the Technical Rescue Operations Section
Officer in charge of the division/group.
ν An entry team shall consist of at least two personnel.
ν A back up team of at least two personnel shall be in place prior to allowing the entry
team(s) into a confined space. They will be equipped and outfitted with at least the same
level of protection as the entry team. They will assist the entry team as needed without
entering the space. The back up team will remain in place until all personnel have exited
the space. If the original back up team is going to be used as an entry team, another back
up team must be established and in place prior to any additional entries.
ν Each entry team shall have:
At least one atmospheric monitor.
Two forms of communication .
Emergency Buddy Breathing System (EBBS).
ν Each team member shall have:
Appropriate level of PPE, which will include the use of SABA/SCBA. This will be
dependent on the type of space, monitoring results and ventilation actions
At least two light sources which may include any combination of the
following:
Hand lights
Helmet lights
Chemical light sticks (Cylume sticks)
Personnel alert device
V. OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS
Entry Preparation and Procedures (continued)
ν The Technical Rescue Safety Officer shall:
Check each entry personnel for readiness.
Serves as Attendant as required by OSHA.
Establish and track an entry team rotation.
Record the following:
Entry times
Time in the confined space
Exit times
Number of entries by an individual
ν Personnel shall not cross the “plane of entry” to a confined space with any part of their
body with out the appropriate level of PPE. Breaking the “plane of entry” will be
considered as a confined space entry. The plane of entry is considered to be an
imaginary area surrounding the entry point. DO NOT PLACE YOUR FACE IN THE
OPENING TO ASSESS THE SITUATION OR COMMUNICATE WITHOUT PROPER
PROTECTION.
ν Any confined space with a vertical drop of five feet or greater will require a rope retrieval
system to be attached to the entrant.
A mechanical advantage raising system shall be
attached to entrants prior to entry to assist in quick retrieval of the entrant if required.
ν If the confined space has a potential for engulfment (i.e. storage bins, silos, hoppers) or if
the space has sloped and/or tapered floors, independent support lines shall be used by
the entrants. This will allow them to work above the product surface.
ν Entrants shall use a class III harness when rope systems are used for entry/egress.
ν All Rope operations shall adhere to the Fairfax County Rope Operations Manual.
ν Any lids, covers, doors or hatches that must be opened during entry must be secured
open to eliminate accidental closure.
ν If at any time the air supply is lost to an entrant the entry team will exit the space using
the emergency escape procedure described in the task operations section of this Manual.
V. OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS
Entry/Exit Procedures
ν Team members must stay together while in the confined space. If one member has to
leave the space due to fatigue or low air supply, then the entire team will leave the space.
ν If the team members are going to use built in entry systems such as ladders, footholds or
stairways beware that these may not be well maintained and may fail. The integrity of
these systems must be checked prior to use. If the vertical space is greater than five feet,
a mechanical advantage haul system shall be used independent of the built in system.
ν Tag lines should be used when operating with SCBA. An exception to this would be if the
tag line would endanger the rescuer by becoming an entanglement hazard. SABA does
not require the use of a tag line as the airline fulfills this function.
ν While in the confined space, consider using chalk, Cyalume sticks and/or other methods
to indicate direction of traffic, victim location, area searched and points of egress.
Victim Removal/Extrication
ν The number one priority in a confined space with a hazardous atmosphere is to remove
the victim to a safe environment.
ν Determine victim rescue vs. body recovery.
ν Consider providing victim with a supplemental air supply (i.e. RIT pack, spare SCBA,
SABA mask, etc.).
ν Consider mechanism of injury from falls, entrapment or engulfment and package
accordingly.
ν Extrication activities, which involve disturbing the structure or machinery within the
confined space, shall only be under taken after evaluating the impact of these actions.
Will the action:
Cause a shift in the product?
Create a more hazardous environment?
Cause the structural integrity of the enclosure to be impaired?
Cause an increased hazard to the entrants?
V. OPERATIONAL CONCEPTS
Incident Termination
The following actions shall be conducted at the conclusion of any confined space operation:
ν Personnel accountability:
Fire Department on scene.
Other civilian/agencies that were involved.
ν Assess personnel:
Conduct a post entry medical screening.
CISM debriefing as necessary.
Relieve from duty if needed.
ν Team briefing:
Establish assignments for equipment removal/rehab.
Remove, decon, inventory and arrange replacement as needed.
Turn scene over to responsible parties.
ν Documentation of incident:
Confined space permit shall be filed within seven days. The atmospheric monitoring
log shall be attached to this report.
Exposure reports shall be filed within seven days.
Technical rescue incident report shall be completed by the technical rescue officer
and filed within 24 hours.
Post incident analysis report shall be distributed to all technical rescue stations
within 30 days. The technical rescue program manager shall complete this report.
VI. CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS
Monitoring (Haz-Mat 1)
ν Perform P.H. paper test prior to using monitors.
ν Bump test instrument before every use.
ν Monitoring shall begin on approach to the confined space entrance. Personnel initially
monitoring the space shall wear full PPE and SCBA/SABA for protection from unknown
atmospheres.
ν Report atmospheric monitoring in the following order:
Oxygen
Flammable
Toxins
ν When performing a vertical entry, atmospheres may be stratified. Most air contaminates
and vapors can be found in low lying areas. The atmosphere should be tested every four
feet. If a sampling tube is used, allow two minutes for the delay of the sensor response.
ν Monitoring shall be conducted and recorded every 10 minutes. However, continuous
monitoring is preferred.
ν Consider the shape of the confined space and the potential for pockets of gas.
ν Consider actions that could change the atmosphere:
Wind
Ventilation
Humidity
Temperature
Rescuers
ν Know your monitors limitations/capabilities:
Oxidizers can cause toxic sensors to give a false reading, possibly in the negative
PPM.
High humidity can create condensation on the sensors. Gas molecules may not pass
through the water layer.
Extremely cold environments can cause NiCad batteries and LCD displays to
perform poorly or not at all.
Radio frequency interference may be a problem with false alarms.
Certain toxic atmospheres may require more specialized monitoring. Hazardous
Materials units can help you with your assessment.
VI. CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS
Monitoring (continued)
ν The following atmospheric conditions shall be considered an IDLH environment:
Oxygen deficient: 19.5% or lower.
Oxygen enriched: 23.5% or higher.
Toxicity: levels that exceed the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for any substance
Airborne combustible dust: a concentration of combustible dust that meets or
exceeds its lower explosive limits. This condition may be approximated as a
condition in which dust obscures vision at a distance of five feet or less.
Flammability: 10 % of the LFL or LEL:
Rescuers shall not enter confined spaces containing atmospheres with greater
than 10% of the LEL regardless of the PPE worn.
There is no adequate protection for an explosion within a confined space.
Ventilation
ν Ventilation shall not be conducted until after initial monitoring is accomplished.
ν If conducive, utilize all natural or man made openings into the confined space to assist
with ventilation process (i.e. manholes, hatches, natural openings).
ν Ventilate all levels due to stratification of gases.
ν Consider size and shape of the area and the effects on effective ventilation:
Use electric powered blowers only
The blower intake fan should be positioned:
At least five feet from the opening to eliminate the churning of bad air
At least one foot off the ground to eliminate drawing of ground level
contaminates into the confined space
As not to interfere with communications
The ventilation hose should be positioned:
As not to block access and egress
1-3 feet from the floor space for the most effective air flow. This will also help
prevent creating an airborne dust hazard
VI. CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS
Ventilation (continued)
ν Lockout/Tag out:
Determine the presence of all energy systems that may include one or more of the
following:
Electrical
Pneumatic
Hydraulic
Gravity, momentum, stored energy
— Be aware that emergency back up systems may be present —
Utilize plant personnel or on site workers to assist with lockout of the systems
If a positive lock out control cannot be achieved, a member of the fire department
shall be posted at the controls until all operations are terminated. This person
reports directly to the technical rescue safety officer.
Mechanical moving machinery shall be brought to a zero mechanical state to
eliminate any rotation or movement from slack in the system.
Lockout/Isolation Procedures
ν Techniques for lockout/isolation procedures:
Use multi-lock hasps and padlocks for each entrant; give keys to the technical
rescue safety officer.
Use product control/pipe plugs and/or air bags.
With mechanical linkage, remove drive belts and/or chain sprocket in place.
Valves will be chained or otherwise secured.
Use of spectacle or skillet blinds, for blanking/blinding.
Remove/misalignment of piping.
When blanking/blinding or removal/misalignment cannot be performed, at a
minimum two valves in a product flow line must be shut.
Double block and bleed of systems.
Blocking up to control gravity, momentum and stored energy systems.
If there is no way to guarantee the control of the flow into the space and the space is
subject to the introduction of hazardous materials, then the space will be considered
as containing that hazardous material. The appropriate level of protection clothing
will be required.
VI. CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS
Entry Team Communications
ν Communications shall be maintained between rescuers, command and support
personnel.
ν Any emergency communications shall follow Lexington Division of Fire and Emergency Services procedures.
ν Status report from the entry personnel should include:
Team designator
Accountability status
Location
Air levels (SCBA)
Monitor readings
Situation update
Victim condition if applicable
VI. CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS
.
Airline Management
ν Use accountability tags of rescuers on the manifold with the corresponding airline.
ν Airlines shall be:
Marked with tape or ribbon near the couplings to identify the separate lines
Monitored and managed by an assistant during entry and egress.
Laid out in a manageable fashion (i.e. figure 8 or serpentine).
No longer than 300 feet in length
Connected to form 300-foot lengths, unless the distance is absolutely known (i.e.
tank car).
The airline system uses Hanson quick connect fittings. Safety collar shall be turned
out of the unlock position to prevent accidental disconnect of the airline.
Consideration should be given to placing a rubber boot or duct tape over the
couplings to help prevent unintentional disconnection.
Rescuer Guidelines
ν Entry teams shall routinely check their escape cylinder to ensure that the cylinder
did not accidentally open. If the cylinder is inadvertently opened, the rescuer will
deplete the emergency air supply without warning. The rescuers only air level
indicator is the gauge on the cylinder, there is no low air alarm for this cylinder.
ν Always keep the escape cylinder with in hands reach. When operating in tight areas move
the cylinder in a position where it can be operated easily if there is a sudden loss of air.
ν Rescuers must manage the airline while inside the confined space. Be aware of areas
where the line will get tangled, cut or snagged. If this happens, stay calm and try to
determine the cause. Try to unhook the line or have their partner assist in untangling the
line.
VI. CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS
Rescuer Guidelines (continued)
ν The rescuers should retrieve slack in the airline prior to preparing to go through a portal or
other small opening.
ν The rescuers must maintain awareness of their distance from the entry. Remember you
only have a limited amount of escape air. (Rated for 10 minutes.)
Emergency Escape Procedures
ν Anytime an entry team member’s escape cylinder is opened for any reason, both team
members must exit the confined space. Do not continue an operation with a partially full
cylinder.
ν If the air supply is lost while removing a victim, the victim should be left and the team will
leave the space together.
ν If the airline supply fails, there will not be a low air warning alarm to notify the rescuer.
The first indication will be a decreasing airflow to the rescuer. This will be quickly be
followed by the face piece collapsing against the rescuers face as they pull a vacuum.
ν Escape using EBBS:
Turn on the escape cylinder
Alert the second rescuer of the loss of air
Communicate with the entry officer of the air supply problem
If the second rescuer has not lost supplied air, use the (EBBS) and exit the space
together
If supplied air is returned, disconnecting of the EBBS hose is acceptable in order to
expedite exiting the confined space
ν Escape without using EBBS:
Turn on escape cylinder.
Alert the second rescuer of the loss of air.
Communicate with the entry officer of the air supply problem.
Cycle the cylinder or utilize the donning switch as the team exits the space.
Prior to going through small portals or openings, take a breath and make sure there
is enough air to complete the task. If a difficult egress point is encountered where it
will take several seconds to complete, turn the cylinder on until the task is complete.
During the escape periodically check to see if the air supply has been re-
established. If the air supply has been re established leave the emergency air
cylinder off and exit the space.
VI. CONFINED SPACE TASK OPERATIONS
Victim Packaging/Removal
ν Remember the #1 priority is removal of the victim to a safe environment. The patient
must be packaged for removal based upon the rescuers evaluation of the injuries
sustained and the current atmospheric conditions.
ν Patient removal techniques:
Reeves, SKED (full/half), KED board or improvised material on site (i.e. conveyor
belt) works well as a drag device to maneuver patient through narrow horizontal
spaces.
The SKED is not a spinal immobilization device and will bend under the weight of the
patient if used for any lifting. A spinal immobilization device must be used if any
vertical or horizontal lifting of the patient is required.
LSP half board is a rated lifting device as well as a spinal immobilization device. Use
when a vertical lift is required.
If a KED board is left in place and the patient is being lifted vertically, a full body
harness or seat and chest strap must be placed on the victim.
Extreme situations requiring rapid patient removal due to dangerous atmospheres
will warrant the use of quick application body harness or wristlets for removal.
Place a helmet on the patient, when possible, to protect the patients head during
removal.
Maintain the patient’s airway during a prolonged raising evolution. The use of two
attendants may be required, one above and one below the victim.
Plan ahead for additional resources. Communicate request to outside support along
with situation.
When packaging the patient, preplan which way the patient will exit the space. Keep
in mind any elevation differences and room to maneuver the patient.
Whenever possible position all team members to the egress side of the patient
during removal. This is so the patient will not block means of egress if there is a loss
of air to the rescuers.
In certain situations it may require placing a rescuer on either side of the victim
during removal. These moves need to be quick to reduce the amount of time the
victim is separating the rescuers. Ensure the path is clear of all obstructions.
Consider using a utility line to the victim so other team members can assist with
hauling of the victim. This needs to be carefully orchestrated to prevent further
injuries to the victim. Do not use electric winches to remove the victim(s). Winches
allow little control and could cause injuries to victim and rescuers.
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