Cleaning confined spaces takes the right resources and experience. Not properly cleaning these spaces can lead to complications, including high costs and dangerous scenarios. At B&P Environmental, we provide comprehensive drain cleaning services to tackle most types.
What Are Confined Spaces?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a confined space as a workspace not necessarily designed for humans but large enough to allow a worker to enter and perform specific tasks. There may be limited or restricted means for entry or exit. That means the space is not safe for, nor is created for, continuous occupancy. Some examples of confined spaces include:
- Tanks
- Vessels
- Storage bins
- Pipelines
- Grease traps/interceptors
- Stormwater vaults
Some of these spaces contain hazardous materials. Others may be so confined they are unsafe to use for long periods of time. In most cases, workers enter these spaces and leave them quickly.
What Are the Dangers of Cleaning Confined Spaces?
The risks of cleaning confined spaces depend on the environment and conditions themselves. In some situations, such as in stormwater retention vaults or pipelines, there’s the risk of running water moving through the area that could create a risk for engulfing the entrant or drowning. Many confined space situations are prone to having potentially lethal amounts of gas such as carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide. Areas may have animals or insects present, poisonous plants growing, or other toxins. Other times, the risk comes from exposure to cold.
Who Should Handle Cleaning Confined Spaces?
A certified, competent, and properly equipped confined space operator is necessary for any work needed in these spaces. Not everyone advertising their ability to clean storm drains or grease traps hold such qualifications, have up-to-date training, or the necessary equipment. It is critical that confined space entry situations are analyzed for all possible risks and hazards, and then proper planning is made to appropriately mitigate these risks. Equipment usually includes proper PPE, air quality monitoring, air ventilation, and rescue gear. All equipment must be in good condition, regularly certified by the manufacturer, and calibrated in the case of air monitoring equipment. Should an employee without proper training and certification do this work, the company or employer may be liable for injuries or death that may occur. To avoid that, let the certified professionals at B&P Environmental do the work for you.
Cleaning Confined Spaces with Our Help
B&P Environmental is a licensed and certified organization capable of cleaning confined spaces. Our team can safely remove debris and handle other stormwater management services within confined spaces with years of experience and training.
We provide a range of services within these spaces. If you’re unsure whether our team of professionals can help, reach out to our team today with your questions. Some of the work we can perform in confined spaces include:
- Cleaning grease interceptors
- Stormwater retention vaults/tunnels
- Cleaning below-ground stormwater systems such as Contech filters or Baysavers
- Lift station cleaning
- Vacuuming and cleaning of large holding tanks
- Cleaning of reactor tanks
This type of work requires a Confined Spaces Entry Permit. This is issued by a certified company supervisor. The permit ensures any hazards in the space have been properly identified and assessed to determine risks and hazards. It also helps define the type of protective measures and procedures necessary for the safety of those workers entering the space.
Invest in All of Our Drain Cleaning Services
B&P Environment provides comprehensive support for most needs in cleaning confined spaces. It is never acceptable to try to do this work on your own. Utilize all of our services for peace of mind knowing that your employees are safe and you’ve minimized liability risks. We offer a range of services, including:
- Septic tank pumping
- Grease trap pumping
- Waste cooking oil collection
- Industrial vacuum services
Do You Need Help Cleaning Confined Spaces? Call B&P Environmental Today
Cleaning confined spaces is critical, but it’s not something you should do on your own without proper training and equipment. B&P Environmental can help, including with storm vaults. Learn more about our drain cleaning services now when you call (443) 292-9259 or connect with us online.
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