Currently, dangers or accidents from working in confined spaces occur regularly. Some are caused by unexpected incidents, lack of appropriate equipment, and workers being unable to help themselves. Another part is due to overall health problems, not being ready to work in confined spaces. Health screening before starting work can reduce potential risks. Although work is important for life, every life is always important… Let Phyathai 2 Hospital take care of your health
Characteristics of “Confined Spaces”
Confined Spaces refer to workplaces with limited space, narrow entrances and exits, insufficient heat and air ventilation. They may be places where toxic chemicals, flammable substances accumulate, and oxygen is insufficient, such as oil tanks, fermentation tanks, silos, pipes, tanks, caves, pits, tunnels, furnaces, basements. Gases or vapors generated cannot be ventilated out, possibly inhaling toxic gases into the body, including flammable gases. If danger occurs when entering and working in confined spaces with limited area, other workers outside the space will find it difficult to provide assistance.
Good Health is Good for Yourself, Good for Work, Good for the Organization
Before entering confined spaces, employees must be physically and mentally prepared according to the standards for safety management, occupational health, and working environment in confined spaces B.E. 2547 (2004). This not only benefits the examinee but also benefits coworkers, work efficiency, and the organization. Those working in confined spaces must undergo health assessments at least once a year to receive a work permit.
Dangers That May Occur from Working in Confined Spaces
Many limitations in working in confined spaces, both in terms of air and location, may cause danger to workers in emergency situations. Good health can reduce severity up to death, such as oxygen deficiency, accidents during work, fires due to gas explosions (Combustible Gas), dangers from inhaling dust, toxic gases, very high or low temperatures, hearing and vision efficiency in insufficient light to escape the area promptly in emergencies.
In-depth Health Screening Before Work by the Medical Team at Phyathai 2 Hospital
Health screening for working in confined spaces starts with history taking and general physical examination, screening for uncontrolled diseases or those that may flare up during work. Special physical examinations emphasized for doctors to jointly consider whether the worker can safely work in confined spaces include:
- Chest X-ray
- Lung function
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Complete blood count
- Near and far vision capability
- Hearing capability
Working in confined spaces is a specialized task that requires skilled personnel with good health. Phyathai 2 Hospital pays attention to every health detail with a team of expert doctors to ensure your employees work efficiently and safely in confined spaces.
Dr. Thianchai Riewchotisakul
Specialist in Family Medicine and Occupational Medicine
Health Promotion Center (Premium Health Check-up), Phyathai 2 Hospital
