S10 E11: Smells Like Money Podcast: Confined Space 911: How Prepared Are You?

Suzan welcomes listeners to the episode, continuing the series on safety.
Introduction of Tom Herber, an expert in confined space emergency response, to discuss the importance of confined space training and emergency preparedness.

Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Tom Herber

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Key Discussion Points:

Understanding Confined Space Emergency Response:
- Employers are required by OSHA to ensure there are trained emergency responders available within a reasonable response time.
- Options include trained in-house rescue teams, contracted rescuers, or reliance on local fire departments.
Common Assumptions and Realities:
- Many assume local fire departments are equipped for confined space rescues, but this is often not the case.
- Example: Utility company assumed fire department could respond, but found out the nearest capable team was over an hour away.
In-House Rescue Teams:
- Developing an in-house team involves significant investment in both time and equipment.
- Importance of identifying types of confined spaces and appropriate training for different entry scenarios (vertical, horizontal).
Training and Preparation:
- Self-rescue and non-entry rescue are emphasized to avoid putting additional personnel at risk.
- Continuous training and practice are crucial to ensure proficiency and to minimize panic during real emergencies.
- Example: Municipality with an in-house team that practices regularly but seeks additional training due to budget constraints.
Contracting Out Rescue Services:
- When in-house teams are not feasible, contracting specialized rescue services is a viable option.
- Standby services involve having trained professionals on-site, ready to respond in case of an emergency.
Importance of Drills and Preparedness:
- Mock trials and drills are used to train personnel to handle emergencies without panicking.
- Improvement in response and coordination observed in teams that practice regularly.
Communication and Coordination:
- Coordination with local fire departments and clear communication protocols are vital.
- Example: Municipality sends email notifications to the fire department before starting work in confined spaces to ensure readiness.

Conclusion:

Emphasis on the importance of keeping workers safe in confined spaces.
Encouragement for companies to invest in training and preparation, whether in-house or through contracted services.
Contact information for Workplace Safety Specialists for those interested in learning more about confined space training and rescue services.

Contact Information:

Workplace Safety Specialists: Contact Stu or Jim Shore for inquiries about confined space training and rescue services.

Final Thoughts:

Suzan appreciates the essential and often dangerous work of those in the wastewater and water systems industry.

A reminder of the importance of safety and ensuring every worker returns home safely.

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I hope you find this episode as informative and as exciting as we have.

Please let us know your thoughts about the episode!

Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:

Website: www.creativeraven.com | https://thetuitgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/creativeraven/

Email: raven@creativeraven.com

Telephone: +1 760-217-8010

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