RESCUE IN CONFINED SPACES

Objectives• Able to understand the purpose of the various

rescue methods

• Able to execute the rescue methods when presented with a confined space situation

Scope• Introduction

• Definition of confined space

• Types of confined space

• Types of confined space rescue

• Hazards of associated with confined space rescue

• Rescue Evacuation Plan

• Emergency Evacuation Methods

• Safety Precautions

• Conclusion

Introduction

• Rescue in Confined Spaces is often a very daunting task

• Most hazardous of all rescue activities

• Safety of rescuers are of top

priority

Definition of Confined Space

• Limited or restricted means of entry and exit

• Not designated for

continuous occupancy

E

X

A

M

P

L

E

Silos

Collapsed Structures

Ducts

Sewers & Closed Drains

E

X

A

M

P

L

E

Types of Confined Space Rescue• Self Rescue

Victim gets himself out of confined space without help

• Non- Entry Rescue

Rescuer saves victim without entering confined space (Using equipments like ropes or poles)

• Entry Rescue

Rescuer saves victim by entering confined space

Hazards Associated With Confined Space

Rescue• Hazardous Atmosphere

• Fall Risk

• Mechanical Hazards

• Flooding or Engulfment Potential

Rescue Rescue PreliminariesPreliminaries

• Rescue helmet and gloves to be worn at all times• Smart 4 rolled down to Long 4• Ensure all surrounding hazards are cleared before

approaching for victim for rescue

Rescue Rescue PreliminariesPreliminaries

• Make sure hands are tucked into the belt and legs are crossed

Rescue Action Plan

Casualty Assessment & Care

1. Approach with care

2. If atmosphere is safe, begin primary assessment

3. If atmosphere is unsafe, do not enter

4. Ensure personal safety first

Emergency Evacuation Methods

• Forward Drag (Rescue Crawl or Neck Drag )

• Cross Chest Method

• Collar Pull

• Leg Pull

• Blanket

Forward Drag Method (Casualty

without injured hand)1)Tie the arms of the

casualty securely at both wrists with triangular bandages

2)Kneel astride

3)Pass your head through the arms of the casualty

4)Straighten your arms to lift casualty

5)Drag casualty out by crawling and pushing your feet

Forward Drag Method (Casualty

with injured hand)1)Using belt, rope or

bandage, slide it under the arc of casualty’s body near armpits

2)Kneel astride

3)Pass loop over your head

4)Straighten your arms to lift casualty

5)Drag casualty out by crawling and pushing your feet

Cross Chest Method

1)Lift casualty to a sitting position

2)Sit behind casualty with both legs apart

3)Place casualty’s hands crossed across chest with fingers on shoulders

4)Insert your arm under the casualty’s armpit and hold the outer arm of the casualty

5)Drag casualty out backwards

Cross Chest Method

1)Lift casualty to a sitting position

2)Sit behind casualty with both legs apart

3)Place casualty’s hands crossed across chest with fingers on shoulders

4)Insert your arm under the casualty’s armpit and hold the outer arm of the casualty

5)Drag casualty out backwards

Collar Pull Method

• Only used when previous methods are deemed unsuitable

• Always ensure that casualty’s head is placed in the direction of the exit

Collar Pull Method

• Make sure your arms support the casualty head at all times.

• Your hand should grab the collar and not his neck

Leg Pull Method• Only used as a last

resort in very confined spaces under life-threatening situations

• Ensure that casualty’s legs are placed in the direction of the exit

• Legs Crossed and hands on the thigh area

• Be sure to pull both legs at the same time, with equal force

Leg Pull Method• Make sure to place a soft padding

and secure with a bandage under the casualty head if possible

1. Pull Casualty

2. Slide/Push your backwards

3. Pull Casualty Again

4. Repeat Steps 1- 3 until casualty is rescued

Blanket Method(Blanket Preparation)

Blanket Method(Blanket Preparation)

Blanket Method

• Ensure proper safety at all times• Follow proper procedures • Do not rush into the venue• Do not try rescuing alone• Call back-up• Standby team to help/assist • Ensure proper ventilation of area• Stay alert

Safety Precautions

Conclusion

• Confined space rescue is a dangerous activity• Always ensure personnel performing confined space

rescue are well equipped and prepared for operation