Ventilation in Confined Spaces
A confined space is generally defined as a restricted space such as a tank, boiler, pressure vessel, silo, or small compartment.
Providing adequate ventilation for welders in confined spaces poses several challenges due to the nature of the environment and the specific hazards involved. Below are best practices when welding in confined spaces.
Air Replacement: Provide adequate ventilation to all welding and cutting operations in confined spaces to prevent the accumulation of toxic materials or possible oxygen deficiency. The welder, helpers, and other personnel in the immediate vicinity must get adequate clean and respirable ventilation.
Airline Respirators: Use NIOSH-approved airline respirators or hose masks when it is impossible to provide adequate ventilation.
Self-contained Units: In areas immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH), use one of the following:
- a full-facepiece, pressure-demand, self-contained breathing apparatus, or
- a combination full facepiece, pressure demand supplied-air respirator with an auxiliary, self-contained air supply approved by NIOSH.
Outside Helpers: When providing welders and helpers with NIOSH-approved hose masks, either with blowers or self-contained breathing equipment, a worker must be stationed on the outside of the confined spaces to ensure the safety of those working within.
Securing Cylinders and Machinery: Locate gas cylinders and welding machines on the outside when welding or cutting in any confined space. Securely block heavy portable mounted equipment before starting operations to prevent accidental movement.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-2. When welding or cutting is being performed in confined spaces, the gas cylinders and welding machines must be _____.
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