Rank: Forum user 
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Can any one advise me on this, I have looked at the confined space regulations and simply do not know if it can be classified as a confined space, We have a mechanic working under a trailer, the trailer can be raised with the aid of ramps etc. To remove what is called a tank strap, if the mechanic works within the wheel arch of the trailer can this be considered a confined space even though he can step out from the wheel arch at any time, advice please.
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Rank: Forum user
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I would say not....
A confined space is a space where there is a defined risk arising from the following hazards:
Flammable substances and oxygen enrichment
Toxic gas fume of vapour (hopefully engine not running)
Oxygen deficiency
Ingress or presence of liquids
Solid materials which can flow
Excessive heat
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Rank: Super forum user
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(2) In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires—
“confined space” means any place, including any chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench, pipe, sewer, flue, well or other similar space in which, by virtue of its enclosed nature, there arises a reasonably foreseeable specified risk;
So I would say no.
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Rank: Super forum user
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To clarify my reasoning, you could argue that the following specified risk applies:
(a)
serious injury to any person at work arising from a fire or explosion;
(b)
without prejudice to paragraph (a)—
(i)
the loss of consciousness of any person at work arising from an increase in body temperature;
(ii)
the loss of consciousness or asphyxiation of any person at work arising from gas, fume, vapour or the lack of oxygen;
But I would argue that it is not enclosed due to the fact that the operator could step away at any time and be clear. The fact that it needs to be enclosed means that a person cannot escape a hazard easily (as I understand it) so this doesn't apply. I think you would be pushing it to get the above specified risks to stick anyway!!
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Rank: Super forum user
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Latchy, Its not a confined space
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