Neftaly Safety Standards in Confined Spaces
1. Introduction
At Neftaly, safety is not negotiable. Confined spaces present unique hazards, and we are committed to protecting every individual working within them. Our Confined Space Safety Standards ensure all personnel are trained, equipped, and prepared to work safely and effectively in these high-risk environments.
2. Definition of a Confined Space
A confined space is an area that:
- Is large enough for a person to enter and perform work
- Has limited or restricted entry or exit
- Is not designed for continuous occupancy
Examples include tanks, silos, storage bins, vaults, pits, and pipelines.
3. Risk Assessment
Before any work begins in a confined space, Neftaly requires a thorough risk assessment to:
- Identify potential hazards (e.g. toxic gases, low oxygen, engulfment risks)
- Determine the need for a permit
- Establish controls and emergency procedures
4. Permit-to-Work System
No one may enter a confined space without a valid entry permit issued by a competent person. The permit outlines:
- Names of authorized entrants
- Purpose of entry
- Duration of entry
- Identified hazards and control measures
- Atmospheric test results
- Required PPE and rescue equipment
5. Atmospheric Testing
Confined spaces must be tested for:
- Oxygen levels (minimum 19.5%, maximum 23.5%)
- Flammable gases and vapors (must be below 10% of the Lower Explosive Limit)
- Toxic gases (e.g. carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide)
Testing is performed before entry and continuously during operations.
6. Ventilation and Isolation
- Adequate mechanical ventilation must be in place to ensure safe air quality.
- Energy sources must be locked out and tagged out (LOTO).
- Materials that may pose an engulfment risk must be isolated or removed.
7. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Workers must wear PPE suitable for the hazards present, including:
- Respirators or air-supplying breathing apparatus (when required)
- Full-body harness and lifeline
- Hard hats, gloves, protective clothing, and boots
8. Standby Attendants
A trained standby attendant must be stationed outside the confined space at all times to:
- Monitor the status of workers inside
- Maintain communication
- Initiate rescue procedures if necessary
- NEVER enter the space themselves
9. Communication
Effective communication between workers inside the space and the attendant is essential and must be maintained using:
- Two-way radios
- Visual signals
- Other reliable communication methods
10. Emergency and Rescue Procedures
Neftaly has clearly defined emergency protocols:
- On-site rescue teams trained in confined space extraction
- Rescue equipment readily available
- Periodic drills conducted to ensure readiness
11. Training and Competency
All personnel involved in confined space work must complete Neftaly Confined Space Safety Training, which includes:
- Hazard recognition
- Permit requirements
- Use of PPE and rescue equipment
- Emergency response
Refresher training is mandatory every 12 months or following any incident.
12. Continuous Improvement
Neftaly regularly audits confined space operations and investigates all incidents or near-misses to:
- Improve standards
- Update training
- Refine procedures
We foster a culture of safety through open communication, accountability, and proactive leadership.
Conclusion
Confined space work is inherently dangerous—but with proper planning, training, and controls, it can be done safely. Neftaly’s standards go beyond compliance. They are a commitment to every worker’s life and wellbeing.
Safety starts with awareness. It ends with everyone going home safely.
