28 HEALTH AND SANITATION
identified but may include safety lines and harnesses , and suitable breathing apparatus . explosive atmospheres are likely to occur an appropriate level of protection is required .
Portable gas cylinders and internal combustion engines Portable gas cylinders and internal combustion engines should not be used within confined spaces unless exceptional precautions are in place for ventilation .
Access and egress Safe ways in and out of the confined space are required . Quick , unobstructed and ready access should be provided where possible . The size of opening needs to be sufficiently large to allow the safe passage of persons wearing PPE , and to allow adequate access for rescue purposes .
Fire prevention Flammable and combustible materials should not be stored in confined spaces that have not been specifically created or allocated for that purpose . Fire safety equipment includes :
• Fire alarm and / or emergency alarm
• First aid equipment
• Firefighting equipment
• Fire escape route drawings
• The location of emergency equipment is vital to employees in all emergency situations
• Make sure that everyone knows where to find alarms , firefighting equipment and the first aid kit
Lighting Adequate and suitable lighting , including emergency lighting , should be provided . If used where flammable or potentially
Static electricity Static discharges and all sources of ignition should be excluded if there is a risk of a flammable or explosive atmosphere in the confined space . All conducting items such as steel trunking and airlines should be bonded and effectively earthed .
Limiting working time There may be a need to limit the time for work in a confined space , for example when respiratory protective equipment is used , or under extreme conditions of temperature and humidity .
Regardless of where you perform plumbing works , be sure to know and understand the dangers it poses to you , your team and those around you . Being prepared is the best way to avoid injuries and limit your exposure to hazards .
IOPSA promotes occupational health and safety as a top priority and desires all plumbers to take up a higher standard of health and safety within their own organisations . Together we can make a difference in this industry , keeping ourselves and others safe and making the plumbing industry the standard for high health and safety recognition . PA
" Competence to work safely in confined spaces requires adequate training and experience in the particular work involved ."
www . plumbingafrica . co . za @ plumbingonline @ plumbingonline @ PlumbingAfricaOnline April 2025 Volume 31 I Number 02