Not all confined spaces are created equal. Potential dangers and hazards change from space to space. Many times these dangers are not obvious to the casual observer or detectable by the senses alone, significantly increasing risk to workers. But out of all of the variables, one thing stays the same: Emergency rescue teams must be available while authorized entrants are in the permit-required confined space.
During most confined space rescue situations, the magnitude of challenges and potential hazards means response time and access are limited. The emotions of the surrounding workers can quickly overcome the situation, causing a worker to attempt a rescue in a hazardous space without the proper training. This can result in the worker himself getting caught in the confined space. Deaths often occur during rescue – up to 60 percent of fatalities are would-be rescuers, according to OSHA. A quick, efficient, pre-planned response could mean the difference between a rescue… or a body recovery.