In the UK, the requirement for a suitable and sufficient confined space rescue plan is a requirement within the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 (Regulation 5). Regulation 5 requires that no person shall enter or carry out work in a confined space unless suitable and sufficient arrangements for the rescue of persons in the event of an emergency have been prepared. This applies regardless of whether the emergency arises from a “specified risk” (e.g., hazardous substances, lack of oxygen, fire/explosion) or other unforeseen circumstances like falls or medical emergencies.
The “suitable and sufficient” nature of the rescue plan means it must:
- Be prepared before entry
- Minimise risks to rescuers
- Include appropriate equipment
- Be immediately actionable
- Involve trained and competent personnel
- Be based on a risk assessment
- Be documented and regularly practiced
Beyond legal compliance, a well-developed and practiced confined space rescue plan offers significant benefits:
- It could save lives
- It reduces the risk to rescuers
- It ensures compliance
- It enhances operational efficiency
- It boosts worker confidence and morale
- It minimises business disruption
- It demonstrates due-diligence
In essence, a suitable and sufficient confined space rescue plan is not just a regulatory hurdle, but a critical investment in the safety and well-being of workers, with benefits for both individuals and organisations.
Written by Daniel Prosser, MSc CMIOSH L4DipFRA OSHCR
Health, Safety and Wellbeing Professional