Confined space attendants are required by OSHA’s Code of Federal Regulations. These roles are an essential part of construction and industrial maintenance safety programs, as those involved in watch duties are entrusted with the safety of those they work with. Confined space attendants are always in demand in the current job market, but it is vital to hire personnel that are well trained and experienced.
Responsibilities of Confined Space Attendants:
- They must understand hazards.
- They must be able to communicate effectively.
- They must know the policies and practices surrounding the safety of confined spaces.
- They must monitor entrants during the job as well as during entry and exit.
- They cannot abandon their post for any reason while personnel are in the space unless relieved by another qualified attendant.
- They must monitor atmospheric conditions in the space prior to and during entry.
- They must control access to the confined space.
- They must summon emergency assistance if needed.
- They must keep records of confined space work.
What does a Confined Space Attendant Do?
A confined space attendant, the person on hole watch, keeps up communication with the person in the hole or confined space. The main purpose that this role serves is to sound the alarm in case of an emergency or to raise awareness about a potential emergency situation. A confined space attendant is not expected to enter the confined space to perform the rescue, but to simply sound the alarm so that rescue professionals can be brought in.
Why Confined Space Attendants Should be Outsourced
The job of a hole-watch should not be taken lightly because their responsibilities potentially can save lives. You cannot afford to hire an entry-level employee that has not been properly trained.
Because of the risk involved in confined space work, an objective third-party with trained employees is best to be brought in to a worksite to assist with confined space jobs. A trained and objective attendant not only knows how to maintain OSHA procedures, but will not react emotionally during an emergency situation and will be able to maintain safest protocol.
An untrained attendant may rush into the confined space to help those in trouble, especially if there is a relationship established- which causes more harm than good because now multiple lives are in danger. Confined space attendants will go a long way in increasing the overall safety of a workspace when they are well-trained and don’t have any personal ties to the confined space entrant.
ResponsAble Safety Staffing provides the training and education you need for confined space attendants to meet all OSHA regulations. We supply the trained staff that you need to get the job done. Click here to learn more or give us a call at 225-753-1909.