Confined space cleaning has many risks, and one of them is heat stress. We deal with it safely!
Confined space cleaning is a part of maintaining many commercial and industrial operations. When the summers are especially hot or the environment is so, then this already hazardous job can become hazardous in a different way. Confined space cleaning and heat stress is a duo that needs addressing in certain situations, which we will discuss below.
Confined Space Cleaning and Heat Stress
Confined spaces are not intended for human occupation, have a limited scope of entry and exit, and pose various hazards, such as suffocation, drowning, explosions, and more.
Heat stress is a physical illness that can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms include headache, nausea, muscle cramps, extreme thirst and sweating, fainting, and vomiting.
In settings like steam pipes, hot attics, and vaults on a very hot day, it is vital to understand the risks and prepare accordingly.
Tips for Working in Hot Confined Spaces
Invest in Education and Training
It is the job of every individual to look after themselves and their counterparts in the workplace. The more knowledge a worker has about the different aspects of confined space cleaning and how to prepare and act in the process, the readier he will be to work safely.
Fit Workers with the Right PPE
Every employee needs to have a uniform that is appropriate and fits. Not all personal protection equipment is right for every job. Waterproof uniforms and ones with thick, unbreathable fabric will be more dangerous for the worker than breathable but protective clothing.
Remove Any Potential Obstacles to Escape
When it is necessary for a man to enter a confined space, it is impossible to avoid exposure to high heat if it is present. Exposure to high heat, radiant heat, or hot objects increases one’s risk of heat stress, as does strenuous physical activity in a hot environment. Make room for the occupant to escape easily and rescuers to reach him easily.
Ensure and Monitor Worker Health
The worker himself should be well-hydrated, in good health, and prepared for the job. Other workers are usually tasked to monitor the occupant should anything happen.
Evaluate and Plan Accordingly
Preparation is key. Companies like Jet Blast Inc. will evaluate the worksite and plan in accordance with the best knowledge, training, and team available!
Contact Jet Blast Inc. Today!
Jet Blast® Industrial Services strives every day in an effort to provide our customers with the best service and equipment possible. Providing a safe and stable workplace has allowed us to keep a team of quality people, with most having a tenure of 15 – 25 years with Jet Blast®. With all that experience under one roof, we have been able to provide reliable 24-hour service since 1979. I believe this helps to set us apart from the competition.
Compare us! Let us make your job easier. If you’re located in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Northern Virginia, or Washington, D.C., contact us by email at [email protected], call us at 410-636-0730, or fax us at 410-789-3907, and don’t forget to keep in touch with us on Facebook!