Confined Space Gas Testing
Here at Safe Test Wales we have qualified Authorized Gas Testers, who can test the atmosphere within a confined space and issue a Gas Free Certificate (This is not a permit to work) prior to any of the following works taking place. We recommend all employers operate a permit to work system for any confined space entry's or hot/cold work within there business activities.
Performing a risk assessment prior to any task will determine the need for Gas Test of the area, Gas Testes are also required for areas where a flammable atmosphere may be present although it is not actually a confined space a good example of this is on board ships in dry dock.
Types of Confined Space Entry Permits
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Entry Only - This is where you only intend to enter the confined space usually for a pre inspection to asses if any works are needed to be carried out within the area/confined space. After we test the atmosphere we will give recommendations of the correct Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) if any is to be worn and any further requirements we believe you need for safe entry.
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Cold Work - This is any other task/work is to be carried out within the area/confined space and does not have any sources of ignition present. After we test the atmosphere we will give recommendations of the correct Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) if any is to be worn and any further requirements we believe you need for safe work/entry. In some cases continuous monitoring of the area may be required due to the works being carried out or other factors in the surrounding areas.
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Hot Work - This is any work that involves working with a source of ignition, like sparks or an open flame, in an environment with potentially flammable or explosive atmosphere. After we test the atmosphere we will give recommendations of the correct Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) if any is to be worn and any further requirements we believe you need for safe work/entry. In some cases continuous monitoring of the area may be required due to the works being carried out or other factors in the surrounding areas.
A Paragraph from the HSE Brief Guide to Working In Confined Spaces
Testing the air Testing the air may be necessary to check that it is free from both toxic and flammable vapours and that it is fit to breathe. Testing should be carried out by a competent person using a suitable gas detector which is correctly calibrated. Where the risk assessment indicates that conditions may change, or as a further precaution, continuous monitoring of the air may be needed. Provision of special tools and lighting Non-sparking tools and specially protected lighting are essential.
HSE Guidance - Please click on the titles to be taken to the relevant literature