Working in confined spaces without the use of proper ventilation equipment can cause serious safety issues. Enclosed areas may subject workers to poor quality of air, high temperatures, and a lack of space to move about. However, taking precautions and utilizing the right tools and clothing will make working in tight spaces both easier and safer for your employees.

Here at All Safety Products, Inc., we carry a wide variety of confined space equipment. There is a long list of Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE, that must be used for work in confined spaces. To start, you may want to invest in a Hazard Inventory Reference Chart, especially if you are having trouble getting workers to wear PPE. Write your main 30 hazards and hazardous materials on your chart. The charts are laminated so terms can be erased and rewritten if needed. They are great to use as employee reminders and as supervisor checklists during training.

Chemical Protective Clothing, or CPC, is necessary for employees who handle hazardous substances. CPC will prevent chemicals from coming into contact with skin areas. CPC ranges in thickness from 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters, and it is fully tested against over 250 chemicals to determine breakthrough time. Many protective body suits are also brightly colored, which is recommended in areas with poor lighting or visibility.

While some chemicals are harmful when they come in contact with the skin, others are harmful if they are ingested or inhaled. In the case of airborne chemicals, air blowers and respirators can be employed. There are different levels of respirator filters to choose from. Some are oil-proof or oil-resistant, while others provide no protection from oils in aerosol particulates. Choose the best respirator for your work environment.