Dear all, Can anyone tell me what a Category 1 Confined Space is? I thought I was familiar with the Confined Space Regulations but I have to admit that I haven't come across this categorisation before. Thanks in anticipation, Michael

Category 1 – High risk areas which are commonly known to have a build-up of contaminants or oxygen deficiency, or a combination of these factors in addition to hot work being performed eg. silos, pits containing chemicals or grains, sewers. These areas require special precautions prior to and during working in the space. These confined spaces can be immediately hazardous to life and some precautions are required. Chemical levels may change during normal work in category 1 confined spaces and become unsafe. Atmospheric monitoring must be ongoing during work in these areas to ensure a safe working environment. Category 2 – Medium risk areas which may be hazardous because of an unusual and unexpected build-up of contaminant, or where there may be additional hazards such as noise, temperature, and manual handling. hope this helps

Thanks Cadman. Could you tell me please where your categorisation comes from? From another source I've had it suggested that there are 4 categories of which category 1 is the least risky. Regards, Michael

Water UK have developed a classification for confined spaces with 1 being low risk and 4 being the greatest. I believe the document is available on the web. Regards Yul

Yes as above, usually shows up during procedures for say sewer (storm, foul, combined) within the water industry and specific to 'man-entry'. Frequently found during CCTV surveys and HPJ. I have all the categories but they are on my works computer right now. It is mostly down to the level of control required depending on what level of potential danger it is classed as. CFT

Michael, You will probably find that every industry you look at has a specific method of presenting the same thing. In essence each and every CS should be subject to a risk assessment. The out come of the assessment should as we all know should identify the hazards likely to be encountered and the control features which need to be in place to protect those entering this space. Any other short cut to this procedure is to my mind a disguise for improvement. Classifications are fine but at the end of the day that criteria and inforamtion i.e. has the vessel contained hydrocarbons, gases, liquids, etc has to be avaialable for the RA as many varied other questions need to be asked, those working in the industry maybe familiar with the answers, but an oversight ( yep I have done this before ) of no RA IMHO leads to disasters. Wizard