Confined Spaces - Shafts, Tunnels & Trenches

• Confined Spaces - Shafts, Tunnels & Trenches (PDF 428kb)
  Document Type: Publication
  Keycode: VWA271/01/12.03 - web only
  Industry: Construction, 
  Category: Confined Spaces, General, 
  Division Author: Occupational Hygiene
  Publication Date: 26 May 2003
  Date First Published: 26 May 2003
  Summary: This publication provides guidance on how to apply the definition of a confined space to all types of excavations and some basic information on how to identify hazards and assess and control the risks associated with these confined spaces.

About this publication

Within the building and construction industry, excavations such as shafts, tunnels and trenches, and associated structures, may fit the definition of confined spaces under the regulations. Accordingly, this publication will address the following: - excavations under construction such as shafts, tunnels and trenches; and - completed excavations such as pits, access holes, pipelines and excavations that are connected to or near services such as sewers, gas lines or storm water drains. This publication does not specifically deal with large excavations such as road or rail tunnels, or large trunk sewers, but many of the principles would be applicable. Furthermore, it will help you to apply the definition of a confined space to all types of excavations. It will also provide you with some basic information on how to identify hazards and assess and control the risks associated with them.