Confined Space Training
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which is the right course for my people?
Use the descriptions and examples above as a guide. If your employees actually go inside a confined space, they will need either the 2-day course Confined Space Safety or the 3-4 day course Advanced Confined Space Safety.
As a guide, answering "yes" to any of the following questions indicates that you may need Advanced training:
- Is there a high risk of contact with hazardous atmospheres in the space? Eg sewage, chemicals, corrosion, rotting vegetation
- Is there a risk that someone could be engulfed by something in the space? Eg grain, sugar, water or other liquids
- Do people have to use ladders or heights equipment (harnesses) to get into the space?
- Is breathing apparatus used as part of our work?
- Do people work with limited supervision?
What are my legal obligations as an employer?
Each state in Australia has different requirements for safe working in confined spaces. Most of BML's clients operate in NSW, so details of NSW legislation are included below. For details of requirements in other states, contact BML, or your state's WorkCover office.
In NSW you have the following obligations under Clause 77 of the OHS Regulation 2001:
(1) "An employer must provide training for all persons who are required to work in or on a confined space in all relevant activities relating to entering and working in or on the confined space.
(2) The training program must include instruction in the following:
(a) the hazards of confined spaces
(b) risk assessment procedures
(c) risk control measures
(d) emergency procedures
(e) selection, use, fitting and maintenance of safety equipment"
Who has to have confined space training?
The NSW OHS Regulation 2001 says the following employees must have confined space training:
"Persons who:
(a) perform assessments in relation to the safety of confined spaces
(b) issue entry permits for work in confined spaces
(c) design and fix the layout of work places
(d) manage or supervise (or both) persons working in or near confined spaces, including any contrator
(e) maintain equipment used for and during entry to confined spaces
(f) purchase, distribute, fit, wear or maintain personal protective equipment used in relation to the carrying out of work in confined spaces
(g) are on stand-by in relation to work in confined spaces
(h) are involved in rescue and first aid procedures in relation to work in confined spaces."
Does BML's training meet the legal requirements?
Yes. Our courses are specifically designed to meet the requirements of the NSW OHS Act 2000, the OHS Regulation 2001, relevant Codes of Pratice and AS2865. Our courses are also nationally accredited, so you can be assured they meet the highest industry standards.
Can my employees be trained at my workplace?
Absolutely. This is the best method to ensure your workers are aware of their workplace hazards and have experience in using their safety gear. BML comes to your worksite and trains in your work procedures, using your safety equipment. All courses are customised to suit your particular industry.
Does the training have to be delivered in one block?
No, you can arrange the training to suit your work schedules, including shift work. However, we recommend that the sessions are held fairly closely together to obtain maximum benefit from the training. Speak to BML about the options available.
What is "refresher training" and how often should it be delivered?
Refresher training revisits the basic skills and knowledge required to work safely in a confined space, to make sure that your workers are up-to-date. The training takes one day to complete and involves practical demonstrations, as well as knowledge checks. A new certificate is issued after the completion of the course. Australian Standard 2865 says that regular refresher training should be undertaken. There is a range of views as to what constitutes "regular". BML recommends between 1-2 years, depending on the circumstances of your workplace, such as the level of risk involved in the work, how often workers are required to work in a confined space etc. We can help you design a program of refresher training, based on your particular needs.
Is any other training required for confined space work?
BML highly recommends completion of First Aid training for workers involved in confined space work.
We also recommend training in First Attack Fire Fighting to supplement your confined space training. BML can provide this course as part of your confined space safety package, on request.
