Trapped Isn’t a Plan: Writing a Confined Space Rescue Strategy That Works

A Confined Space Rescue Plan is a vital component of any safe system of work involving confined spaces. It ensures that if something goes wrong, such as a medical emergency, atmospheric contamination, or entrapment, workers can be rescued promptly and safely. 

Regulatory requirements (such as OSHA in the U.S., WHS Regulations in Australia, or HSE in the UK) mandate that no confined space entry should occur without an effective rescue plan in place.

1. Understand the Purpose of a Rescue Plan

The goal of a confined space rescue plan is to:

• Minimise response time in emergencies

• Ensure rescuers are trained, equipped, and protected

• Define clear procedures, roles, and responsibilities

• Prevent rescuers from becoming victims themselves

A well-crafted plan is tailored to the specific confined space, thoroughly tested in drills, and regularly reviewed.

2. Identify the Confined Space

Begin by clearly identifying the confined space(s) involved. Include:

• Location and access points

• Dimensions and configuration (e.g., horizontal entry, vertical shaft, tanks)

• Type of confined space (e.g., storage tanks, sewers, pits)

• Hazards present (e.g., low oxygen, flammable gases, engulfment risks)

Include photographs or diagrams for clarity. This section informs rescue logistics, equipment requirements, and team size.

3. Define Hazards and Entry Conditions

The plan must assess:

• Atmospheric hazards (oxygen deficiency/enrichment, toxic or flammable gases)

• Physical hazards (machinery, engulfment, electrical)

• Environmental factors (temperature, lighting, water ingress)

• Tasks being performed (welding, cleaning, inspections)

Include any relevant air monitoring data or requirements for continuous monitoring.

Also, define the conditions for safe entry:

• Atmospheric readings must be within safe limits

• Ventilation systems must be functioning

• Isolation (LOTO) must be verified

• Communication systems must be tested

4. Establish Emergency Scenarios

Develop likely emergency scenarios so your rescue plan can address them:

• The entrant loses consciousness due to low oxygen

• The entrant is injured and unable to exit

• Sudden gas release or engulfment

• Equipment failure (e.g., lifeline detachment)

Each scenario should describe:

• How the emergency is detected

• Immediate actions to take

• Who is notified and how

5. Assign Roles and Responsibilities

A rescue plan is only as good as the team that enacts it. Define roles such as:

• Entrant(s) – those entering the confined space

• Attendant (Standby Person) – remains outside and monitors

• Entry Supervisor – authorises and oversees the entry

• Rescue Team – trained personnel designated to perform rescue

For the Rescue Team, specify:

• Minimum team size

• Training and qualifications (e.g., confined space rescue, first aid, CPR)

• Medical clearance

• Fitness requirements

Also include external emergency services (fire brigade, ambulance) and procedures for contacting them.

6. Detail Rescue Methods

Outline the specific rescue techniques applicable to the space:

Non-Entry Rescue (Preferred Method)

• Use of retrieval systems such as winches and harnesses

• Requires the entrant to be connected to the retrieval line at all times

• Must ensure the line can be used without causing injury

Entry Rescue (When Non-Entry Is Not Possible)

• Requires rescuers to enter the confined space

Must include provisions for:

• PPE (self-contained breathing apparatus, protective clothing)

• Atmospheric monitoring

• Communications gear

• Backup personnel and equipment

Each method should include:

• Step-by-step instructions

• Rescue time estimate

• Minimum equipment needed

• Medical aid on exit

7. Equipment Requirements

List all rescue-specific equipment and where it is stored:

• Tripod or davit arm

• Winch or retrieval system

• Harnesses

• SCBA or air-supplied respirators

• Portable gas detectors

• Lighting

• Communication devices (radio, hands-free comms)

• First aid kit and AED

Equipment must be:

• Inspected before use

• Maintained regularly

• Stored in accessible, designated locations

Include checklists for pre- and post-rescue inspections.

8. Communication Procedures

Effective communication is critical during rescue. Define:

• Standard communication methods (radio, hand signals)

• Emergency communication protocol (code words, alarm systems)

• Contact details for internal and external responders

Ensure all parties (entrant, standby, rescue team) have reliable, tested communication tools. Include communication fallback plans in case of failure.

9. Medical and First Aid Provisions

A rescue plan must include:

• Immediate first aid procedures

• Trained first aid personnel on standby

• Procedures for dealing with:

• Location of the nearest medical facility

• Transportation plan (ambulance access routes, lifting devices)

Consider designating a "medical lead" for larger teams or high-risk sites.

10. Training and Drills

All personnel must be:

• Trained in their roles, including the use of rescue equipment

• Certified where required (e.g., confined space entry, breathing apparatus)

• Included in regular rescue drills simulating realistic scenarios

Drills should:

• Be documented

• Include debriefs and improvement actions

• Test timing and decision-making

• Practice both non-entry and entry rescue, where applicable

11. Plan Review and Approval

Ensure the plan:

• Is signed off by a competent person

• Is updated after any changes to the confined space, equipment, or team

• Is reviewed at least annually or after drills/incidents

Include a section with:

• Version control

• Approval signatures

• Review dates

12. Integration with Safe Work Procedures

The rescue plan must align with:

• Permit to Work system

• Confined space entry procedures

• Isolation and LOTO processes

• Hazardous substance management

• Incident reporting systems

Ensure cross-referencing with relevant documents is included.

13. Final Documentation Checklist

Before finalising the plan, verify it includes:

• Confined space identification and diagram

• Hazard assessment

• Emergency scenarios and triggers

• Roles and contacts

• Rescue procedures and equipment

• Communication plan

• First aid protocols

• Training and drill logs

• Review and approval record

Make the document accessible onsite, and ensure key personnel carry quick-reference copies or have access via digital systems.

Summary

A confined space rescue plan isn’t just a formality—it’s a critical lifesaving tool. It should be:

• Specific to each confined space

• Actionable under real emergency conditions

• Regularly reviewed and practised

• Integrated into your broader safety systems

With the right plan, equipment, and training, teams can safely perform high-risk confined space work knowing a robust rescue capability backs them.