Page 69 - OHS, September 2024

ing the risk. For example, solutions like guardrails are much more effective than fall arrest equipment in removing hazards and decreasing risk for the worker. Fall ar- rest solutions should only be considered once preventative solutions like guardrails or fall restraint systems are ruled out due to infeasibility.
The final component of controlling haz- ards is preparing for worst-case scenarios. Any job site with ongoing confined space work environments must also be equipped with appropriate OSHA-approved rescue equipment in the event that an employee is unable to exit the hazardous area without assistance. Emergency services, 9-1-1 and medical assistance should always be called if a fall incident occurs, but that does not relieve the employer of their duty to have equipment on hand to perform self-rescue methods before first responders arrive at the scene. Simulated rescue training prac- tices can help ensure workers understand how to properly use rescue equipment and increase the chances of a successful rescue should one be necessary to perform.
Implementing Solutions
and Personnel Training
Once effective solutions are identified and implemented, the real work begins. Confined space work will likely necessi- tate training that goes above and beyond standard fall protection training. It would behoove employers to rehearse entering a confined space before performing the actu- al confined space work. While on-the-job training is an effective way for workers to gain valuable knowledge, proactive train- ing will only reinforce those principles when it is time to get down to business and work must be performed.
Any user entering a confined space should be prepared to perform pre-use in- spections on their fall protection equipment and any other personal protective equipment (PPE) that will be used to perform their task. The organization’s Competent Person should train on the importance of verify- ing the integrity of safety equipment before work starts to prevent unanticipated injuries from occurring. Additionally, retraining should occur if an employee displays a lack of knowledge or a gap in understanding of the company’s written fall protection plan.
Conclusion
Confined spaces bring unique challenges
and elevated chances of risk to any job site, but their hazards can still be remedied by ordinary mitigation methods. As safety pro- fessionals, it is important to remember core principles that will help identify effective solutions and make the safety of the worker the top priority. Throughout this process, we must ensure that solutions will be effec- tive enough to keep workers safe and simple enough to use that users will adopt them into normal work routines. With positive reinforcement and an emphasis on keep- ing users safe, we can make steady progress
in achieving fewer falls, fewer injuries and fewer fatalities over time.
Philip Jacklin is Continuing Education Pro- gram Manager for Diversified Fall Protection. He is an AIA continuing ed provider, QSSP certified, OSHA-30 trained, and has been a partner to the fall protection industry since 2018. Philip has a background in customer advocacy, team leadership, and fostering ca- maraderie among peers. He enjoys playing music, writing, and spending time in the sun- shine with his family in Virginia Beach, Va.
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SEPTEMBER 2024 | Occupational Health & Safety 67
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