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713 Confined Space Program
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Confined Space Rescue

Confined spaces are deceiving. A confined space often appears to be harmless; no danger signs are apparent and the space may have been entered on prior occasions without incident.

Self-rescue is the preferred method for rescue.

Two-thirds of all confined space fatalities occur among would-be rescuers. Even a well-planned rescue can end up as a body retrieval.

Rescues can be performed only by fully trained, qualified, and assigned employee rescuers or a professional rescue service. Qualifications include knowledge of and practical experience with all hazards associated with confined space entry operations and rescue. There are three rescue strategies we'll discuss in this module:

  1. Self Rescue: Self-rescue is always the preferred method for rescuing entrants during confined space emergencies.
  2. Non-entry Rescue: When self-rescue is not possible, non-entry rescue is the preferred method for confined space emergencies.
  3. Entry Rescue: Rescue requiring entry into the confined space should only be performed by a trained rescue team or emergency service provider.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

8-1. What is always the preferred method for confined space emergencies?