Monitoring confined spaces

Industrial Scientific explains that, even before entering a confined space, it is necessary to understand the regulations, obtain permits, gear up, and test the atmosphere within the space. After the space has been checked and certified as safe, the air must be monitored continuously while workers are inside. Training classes can help you understand the proper procedures for sampling in a confined space.

Gas monitoring considerations include:

Pre-entry air sampling
A gas detector with a pump allows you to draw air samples from the space during initial testing. The Ventis Pro, Ventis MX4, and MX6 iBrid have pump options which allow users to take samples of a space before entering. Sampling accessories such as probes and tubing kits make it easier for workers to draw accurate samples from a space. The Radius BZ1 also has a pump option, which provides continuous monitoring from outside the space while the entrant is inside.

Wireless monitoring 
Wireless gas detectors like Ventis Pro provide you and your team with ongoing real-time data. With LENS Wireless, the attendant or “hole watch” can see what is happening inside the confined space and respond quickly if conditions worsen inside the space. Using these monitors with an RGX Gateway lets supervisors at a control center continuously monitor each entry in real-time without the need for an attendant to be stationed at each entry point.

Intrinsic safety
Any equipment that will occupy the confined space should be intrinsically safe to avoid explosion hazards. This includes not only gas detectors, but also any other support equipment such as lighting, cables, and ventilators.

Proper maintenance and compliance
The DSX Docking Station provides automated calibration, bump testing, record keeping, and instrument diagnostics.

Battery life
Extended battery life lets you keep working longer without needing to take safety equipment out of the field for a battery swap. Ventis Pro gas detectors offer 3 different battery options to fit your run time needs. The Radius BZ1 can run continuously for 7 days on battery power and can run indefinitely with an extended run time power supply.

Ease of operation
User-friendly equipment simplifies operation and promotes faster response time during an emergency. Ventis Pro Multi-Gas Monitors and Radius BZ1 Area Monitors convey audible alarms and clear messages such as ‘EVACUATE’ to help clarify emergency situations and facilitate proper action. 

Digital permit to work
To keep workers safe in permit to work required confined spaces, it is imperative that the permit to work is filled out completely and correctly, including both initial gas readings necessary for entry and readings from continuous monitoring. SmartWork digital permits help to ensure workers in confined spaces can work safely and without unnecessary permit approval delays. Through integration with the Ventis Pro gas monitor, gas readings are automatically submitted to the confined space permit to work so there is never a doubt whether the readings were actually taken. Safety & Health Expo, stand 3654