Working in a confined space presents many dangers.
The enclosed space may expose workers to harmful airborne contaminants or unsafe oxygen levels. In some settings, workers may also face the risk of fire or explosions.
To protect individuals from these hazards, a proper assessment is needed, which requires training from a nationally recognised training centre.
If you or your staff work in confined areas, ensure that you have the necessary training.
What Is Confined Space Training Sydney?
Confined space training courses cover the steps needed for assessing the risks of working in confined spaces. Individuals learn practical skills for safely working in a cramped space. The course also covers the use of entry permits.
Employees, managers, supervisors, and PCBUs should complete this practical training if working in an environment that includes confined spots. A confined space is defined as an enclosed or partially enclosed area that meets one of the following criteria:
- The area is not intended for human occupation
- The area does not provide safe oxygen levels
- The area may contain contaminants
- The area includes harmful concentrations of airborne contaminants
- The area is at risk of engulfment
Common examples include pits, ducts, vats, tanks, silos, and shafts. Tunnels and underground sewers also fall into the category of tight area. If the place meets any of these criteria, workers should follow the model WHS regulations for confined spaces.
The goal of the safety training is to provide workers with the skills needed to manage risks associated with these types of areas. Under the model WHS regulations, a risk assessment is needed. The training covers the best practices for completing the assessment.
After the assessment, if employees cannot avoid working in the cramped area, an entry permit must be completed by a competent person. Control measures are also necessary for protecting workers. These measures may include the use of breathing apparatus and other equipment for confined space rescue.
How is Confined Space Training delivered?
Confined space training courses are now delivered in a blended format. You can choose 100% face to face OR theory online followed by a 2-3 hour practical. The theory online and face to face practical is becoming increasingly popular in these times.
How Much Is the Confined Space Entry Course Sydney?
The cost of confined space training course Sydney depends on whether you are taking it for the first time or renewing your ticket. First-time students can complete the full course, while those seeking renewal can take the refresher. The cost may also vary depending on the number of enrolees within the organisation.
Workers must complete the initial training course face to face at a nationally recognised training organisation. This confined space course costs $247 per person. The onsite training lasts for a full day. Costs become cheaper when running courses within workplaces for groups of workers. Currently AlertForce is offered blended training at $197 per person. This involves doing your theory component online and then booking a face to face practical session to get signed off.
When workers seek the renewal of their training, they can complete the refresher course if acceptable at their workplace. The online refresher course costs $60 plus GST. Instead of a full day, the online course is self-paced and the Certificate of completion should be coupled with the original Statement of Attainment.
How Often Is Training Required in Sydney?
The laws specify that businesses must keep training records for two years. However, the laws do not specify an expiration date for the ticket.
After completing the course, participants receive the RIIWHS202E ticket to enter and work in confined spaces. While the government does not have a requirement for renewal, the industry standards recommend renewal every 24 months. To obtain renewal, workers can complete a refresher course.
The refresher course provides a convenient option for maintaining competency. You can complete the course online at your own pace. Pre-course materials are also available immediately.
What Is the WHS Standard for Confined Space Training in Sydney?
RIIWHS202E is the Australian standard unit of competency for confined space training but it can vary from workplace to workplace. It describes the skills and knowledge needed for work in confined spaces. The unit of competency outlines the following processes:
- Plan and prepare for work
- Working in a confined space
- Exiting the tight spot
- Cleaning up afterward
The first part focuses on assessing the hazards. Workers must also confirm emergency response procedures and prepare rescue equipment. Before entering, all necessary tools and equipment need to be checked and ready for use.
After entering, workers need to ensure that the atmosphere is monitored for safe oxygen levels and the presence of harmful contaminants.
To comply with regulation, workers must receive an entry permit before entering a confined space. The permit only applies to one place and covers the following details:
- A description of the work area
- The time frame for the permit
- The names of workers allowed to enter
- The steps needed to minimise hazards
The permit ends with a section for the person who wrote the permit to verify that everyone has vacated. The standard also covers steps for entering the area correctly and maintaining communication with a stand-by person. Skipping any of these steps could put workers in danger.
The steps needed for assessing and working in tight spaces include detailed instructions and best practices. To ensure that you and your staff comply with the industry standards, enrol in a confined space course Sydney or complete the refresher. Besides being mandatory, these courses help keep everyone safe.
