Which Confined Space Course Do You Need?

It is very important that anyone working in a confined space (such as mining, chimneys, sewage or on the docks) understands the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and their role and responsibilities under these. With workers at great risk if they are not undertaking correct health and safety in a confined space environment, it is essential that employers sort out the training they need before work is commenced to prevent against injuries and fatalities, to both the workers involved and those who may be involved in any rescue efforts.

Courses Available:

Confined Spaces courses can be split into 4 areas:

- Management courses
- Practical courses
- First Aid, CPR and Resuscitation courses
- Entry level courses

Determining at which level employees need to start their training is the first step; it may also be that a worker needs to take a course in more than one area. For example, they may require a management course as well as a practical and a first aid course to ensure they are fully trained in all aspects to fulfil their job role safely.

Management courses:

For those in a management role and who are responsible for managing work in a confined space environment.

Practical courses:

These are for those who will be undertaking actual works in confined space areas; for example, a miner, a chimney sweep or a sewage worker. Those undertaking the work need to be aware of dangers at all times and how to work safely in their area.

First Aid, CPR and Resuscitation courses:

These will be applicable to all workers as everyone needs these skills to ensure safety on a site and in a confined space. Any level of worker or management can sit these courses, although some are more specific than others.

Entry level courses:

An entry level course is for those who are new to working in a confined space. They may not have started in their job role as yet and need the most training on the correct health and safety and behaviour in this area.

It is also possible to undertake certain confined space courses on an e-learning basis, although these will be for topics that do not require any type of practical demonstration to pass.

Confined space courses are also available for specific industries, such as working with water and rescuing people from water.