Confined spaces have characteristics that make them places with various risks, including a possible fall when working at height, since entry and exit are sometimes made by ladder.
Therefore, the design and installation of this type of vertical ladders in confined spaces present unique technical challenges, since they must comply with specific regulations and ensure workers’ safety under difficult and restricted conditions.
In this article we will look at some of the fundamental aspects we need to consider when designing and manufacturing this type of ladder.
What Is Considered a Confined Space and What Risks Does It Involve?
First of all, we need to know what a confined space is, according to NTP 223:
A confined space is any space with limited openings for entry and exit and unfavorable natural ventilation, in which toxic or flammable contaminants may accumulate or which may have an oxygen-deficient atmosphere, and which is not designed for continuous occupancy by a worker
Within this type of space, and based on NTP 223, we can distinguish between:
- Open only at the top and with a depth that leaves them with almost no natural ventilation (wells, silos, tanks, …)
- With entry and exit openings (tunnels, sewers, reactors, …)
The Risks of Confined Spaces
When working in confined spaces we must be aware of the hazards we may face; they can be classified into general risks and specific risks.
General risks in confined spaces
In this category we find:
- Mechanical risks: equipment failures, collisions, impacts, …
- Risk of electrocution
- Falls to a lower level
- Poor posture
- Falling objects
- Harsh work environment: cold, heat, noise, …
- Communication problems between the inside and the outside
Specific risks in confined spaces
Here we find those directly related to the working conditions of this type of place, such as:
- Asphyxiation
- Fire
- Explosion
- Poisoning
Which Regulations Govern the Design of Ladders in Confined Spaces?
As mentioned, one of the risks in this type of space is a fall to a lower level, so it is important to keep the regulations in mind at all times in order to work safely.
The standards governing vertical ladders focus on the minimum provisions that this type of structure must meet; specifically, the reference standard is UNE EN 14122-4, which we have already discussed on other occasions.
These minimum requirements include:
- Structural strength: The ladder must be able to support the weight and stresses it will be subjected to. Materials such as stainless steel or aluminum are ideal for resisting corrosion and ensuring longevity.
- Safety systems: In many cases, a safety cage or lifelines are required, allowing workers to stay secured while climbing or descending.
- Accessibility and clearance: Ladders must have enough clear space to allow workers to move without obstructing passage or the use of personal protective equipment.
- Maintenance and durability: It is essential that ladders be easy to maintain, made of materials that resist wear and the extreme conditions they may face in a confined space.
If we focus on the field of confined spaces, which, as we have mentioned, have harsh environments, explosion hazards, and toxic atmospheres, we must verify that our ladder is suitable for this type of environment and for the work to be done, and above all for a possible rescue if necessary.
It is essential that, together with the ladder design, a detailed rescue plan be developed for emergencies, since the only way in and out may be where the ladder is installed. This plan should therefore include:
- Evacuation procedures: Detailing how to act in the event of an accident
- Suitable rescue equipment: Having the necessary equipment and PPE to act quickly
- Ongoing training: Having the procedure and the equipment is useless if workers do not know how to use them, so operators need to be trained in rescue
Most Common Mistakes When Designing Ladders for Confined Spaces
Designing ladders for confined spaces requires precision and experience. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Failing to ensure easy and safe use: narrow rungs, awkward access, …
- Incomplete safety measures: no lifelines, no anchor points, …
- Failing to comply with regulations: both national and local
- Failing to adapt the design to the specific conditions of the confined space: every space is unique, and the ladder must be designed and manufactured according to the needs of the job
Conclusions
Designing vertical ladders in confined spaces is a technical challenge that demands precision and a safety-focused approach.
In work at height it is essential that the systems we work with are strong, accessible, and designed in accordance with regulations and best practices.
At Ypsos Safety, we have the technical knowledge and experience needed to offer customized, effective solutions to protect workers in the most demanding work at height.