What types of gas should I watch out for when working in a confined space?

Due to their nature, confined spaces are inherently dangerous areas to work in. Potential risks in confined spaces are numerous and include fire hazards, noise, equipment hazards, radiation, temperature extremes, flooding, engulfment, and visibility. But perhaps none is more common than gas hazards.

Each confined space has its own set of risks (read more in Working in Confined Spaces? You Need the Right Training), so it’s important to conduct a thorough assessment to figure out which specific gases you need to monitor for. Several gases are commonly found in confined spaces, however, and should definitely be included in your gas-monitoring program.

Oxygen

Oxygen, while necessary to breathe, can be harmful to confined space workers if there is too much or too little. The minimum acceptable oxygen level set by OSHA is 19.5 percent. Workers in atmospheres with 15-19 percent oxygen will experience a decreased ability to work strenuously and impaired coordination. Areas with even less oxygen can have numerous and severe effects on workers including:

• Poor judgment
• Impaired respiration
• Fainting and nausea
• Vomiting
• Unconsciousness
• Death

Atmospheres with an excess of oxygen—that is, levels above 21 percent—pose a severe fire hazard. Flammable and combustible materials can burn violently when ignited, and oxygen levels above 23.5 percent can cause worker death. An excess of oxygen is generally the result of leaking oxygen hoses or cylinders.

Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide is colorless but identifiable by its rotten egg smell. Often the result of decaying organic matter, H₂S is highly flammable. Effects vary depending on exposure, but high concentrations can quickly lead to death. Hydrogen sulfide is heavier than air and is a particular concern for workers in recessed confined spaces like pits and storage tanks. Anyone working in sewers, manholes, and agricultural spaces must manage their risk by monitoring for this poisonous gas.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is often known as the silent killer (read on in Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer). Odorless and colorless, CO requires a gas monitor for detection and is particularly dangerous for workers in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. Carbon monoxide is common in industrial environments where heavy propane or gas powered equipment like furnaces, vehicles, heaters, and boilers are running.

Choosing the right gas detector is critical to ensuring the safety of workers. There are two types of detectors:

• Single substance monitors
• Monitors with multiple sensors for numerous gases

I recommend a multi-gas detector as it allows workers to monitor for harmful gases that may be in the confined space, even if they aren’t expected. The detector you select should have sensors for:

• Oxygen levels
• Combustible gases
• Toxic gas levels, including hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide; additional sensors may be added based on the specific application

When it comes to atmospheric hazards, it’s best to be overly cautious. Identify your risk factors, invest in training and equipment to manage them, and rest assured knowing that your workers are safe.