130 Confined Space Entry Procedure in Petroleum Industry

Confined spaces are those that are large enough to enter and perform work inside; have a limited or restricted means of entry or exit; and yet are not designed for continuous human occupancy.
Confined spaces in petroleum industry unique challenges and risks due to the presence of volatile substances, high temperatures, and complex equipment. These spaces, such as tanks, vessels, and pipelines, require meticulous safety protocols to mitigate hazards like toxic gases, oxygen deficiency, and fire/explosion risks.
Rigorous training, proper ventilation, and continuous atmospheric monitoring are essential. Additionally, stringent permit-to-work systems and emergency response plans are crucial. Given the potential for catastrophic accidents, maintaining strict adherence to safety regulations and fostering a culture of awareness and accountability are paramount in ensuring the well-being of workers and the integrity of refinery operations.
Confined spaces encompass various environments, including pipelines, cargo ships, silos, utility vaults, sewers, water manholes, elevator shafts, dumpsters, tunnels, truck or rail tank cars, aircraft wings, ditches, wells, trenches, barges, shipping containers, and fish holds.
All hazards found in a regular workspace can also be found in a confined space. However, they can be even more hazardous in a confined space than in a regular worksite.
The typical hazards in confined spaces can include: Poor air quality; asphyxiants; low oxygen; fire hazard; residual chemicals; noise, heat, cold, radiation, vibration; electrical; inadequate lighting; structural hazards; engulfment; entanglement; slips; falls and biological hazards.
Injuries and fatalities involving confined spaces are frequent and often involve successive fatalities when would-be rescuers succumb to the same problem as the initial victim.
In the 1980s, approximately 60% of fatalities involve would-be rescuers and more than 30% of fatalities occur in a space that has been tested and found to be safe to enter.
A written confined space entry program is essential for ensuring regulatory compliance, managing risks effectively, standardizing procedures, enhancing worker training and awareness. This program outlines detailed procedures for assessing risks, obtaining permits, and implementing control measures before entry.