Confined Space Hazards: What Calgary Businesses Need to Know

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Summary

Hey business owners and safety managers! Let’s talk about confined spaces—those tricky spots in workplaces that can turn dangerous if not managed properly. Whether you’re in construction, manufacturing, or maintenance, your team might be exposed to confined space hazards. The good news? Calgary Safety Consultants can help you navigate the risks and keep your team safe.

Let’s break down what confined spaces are, why they’re hazardous, and how to control the dangers.

What is a Confined Space?

A confined space is an area that:
✔️ Is large enough for a worker to enter and do their job
✔️ Has limited or difficult entry and exit points
✔️ Is not designed for continuous human occupancy

Think of places like silos, tanks, tunnels, pits, manholes, sewers, and storage bins—these are all common confined spaces. Many businesses  have confined spaces in their facilities without even realizing the potential risks!

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Why Are Confined Spaces So Dangerous?

Confined spaces might seem harmless, but they can hide life-threatening hazards. Here are the top dangers:

1. Oxygen Deficiency or Toxic Gases

  • Some confined spaces have low oxygen levels, leading to suffocation.
  • Others contain toxic gases like carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide, which can be fatal.

Example: A worker enters a sewer system without testing the air—within minutes, they can be unconscious.

Learn more: https://www.osha.gov/confined-spaces/hazards-solutions

2. Fire & Explosion Risks

  • Flammable gases in confined spaces can ignite from a single spark.
  • Solvents, fumes, and dust can make enclosed areas a ticking time bomb.

Learn more: https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/confinedspace_program.html

3. Engulfment (Getting Trapped)

  • Materials like grain, sand, or liquids can engulf and suffocate workers.

Example: A worker cleaning a grain silo gets buried under shifting grain.

Learn more: https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/confined_spaces/

4. Heat Stress

  • Poor ventilation makes confined spaces hot, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Learn more: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd549908.pdf

5. Physical Hazards

  • Slippery floors, sharp objects, and moving machinery increase injury risks.
  • Limited space means workers can get stuck or crushed.

Learn more: https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/confinedspace_program.html

How to Control Confined Space Hazards

To protect your workers, here’s what you need to do:

✔️ Step 1: Perform a Hazard Assessment

  • Identify all confined spaces in your workplace.
  • Evaluate potential risks before workers enter.

Learn more: https://www.osha.gov/confined-spaces

✔️ Step 2: Air Monitoring

  • Test for oxygen levels, toxic gases, and explosive fumes before and during entry.
  • Use gas detectors to keep workers safe.

Learn more: https://www.osha.gov/confined-spaces/hazards-solutions

✔️ Step 3: Ventilation & Safe Entry Procedures

  • Ventilate the space to maintain safe air quality.
  • Use proper PPE like respirators and harnesses.
  • Implement a permit-to-work system for high-risk spaces.

Learn more: https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/confined_spaces/

✔️ Step 4: Train Your Team

  • Employees must be trained to recognize hazards, use PPE, and respond to emergencies.
  • A trained supervisor should oversee all confined space work.

Learn more: https://www.ccohs.ca/products/courses/confined_spaces/

✔️ Step 5: Emergency Rescue Planning

  • Have a rescue plan in place before anyone enters.
  • Provide workers with proper rescue gear, like harnesses and lifelines.

Learn more: https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/confined_spaces/

How Calgary Safety Consultants Can Help

At Calgary Safety Consultants, we specialize in helping local businesses comply with OH&S regulations and protect their workers. Here’s how we can assist your company:

  • Confined Space Assessments – We identify hazards in your workplace and help you meet compliance standards. (Learn More)
  • Confined Space Training – We provide customized safety training to ensure your workers know what to do. (Learn More)
  • Permit & Documentation Support – Need help with permit systems, safety checklists, and compliance paperwork? We’ve got you covered. (Learn More)
  • Emergency Rescue Planning – We help you create site-specific rescue procedures and train your team on emergency response. (Learn More)
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Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep Calgary Workplaces Safe!

Confined spaces are no joke—they can be deadly without the right precautions. But with proper training, hazard assessments, and safety procedures, your team can work safely and confidently.

Need expert OH&S guidance? Reach out to Calgary Safety Consultants today and let’s create a safer workplace together!

Let’s talk! Book your complimentary consultation today.

Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep your business running smoothly!

FAQs On Confined Space Hazards: What Calgary Businesses Need to Know

Yes, a confined space entry permit is mandatory to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled before work begins.

Training should be conducted regularly and refreshed periodically to keep workers up to date on procedures and equipment.

A confined space is an area not designed for continuous occupancy, has limited entry or exit, and is large enough for a worker to enter and perform tasks. Examples include tanks, tunnels, silos, and sewers.

The most common risks include toxic gases, low oxygen levels, engulfment, fire/explosion hazards, heat stress, and physical injuries due to restricted movement.

Industries such as construction, oil & gas, manufacturing, agriculture, and wastewater management frequently encounter confined spaces.

Secure Your Workplace Safety Today

Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!