At RAB, we pave the way in Flood Risk Management asset inspection and cataloguing, ensuring that organisations are equipped with accurate, accessible and comprehensive databases so that they can effectively monitor and maintain their infrastructure.
As asset inspection experts and effective problem solvers, we tailor our approach to ensure specific Client needs are satisfied even in challenging, hostile scenarios. Infrastructure such as culverts, stilling wells and inspection chambers, are vital assets used worldwide to control flow, allow accurate, precise water level measurement and provide access to other Flood Risk Management assets. However, these assets are designed to be large enough to allow significant volumes of water or people to enter to alleviate flood risk or perform tasks but often are physically restrictive or not designed for continuous occupancy. As a result, they are closed or largely enclosed systems carrying a number of risks – defined as Confined Spaces by the Health and Safety Executive.
Decay of organic matter, pipeline leaks and poor seals can allow gases to enter confined spaces. Without proper ventilation, the complete or almost full enclosure of the space allows gases to build up. These build-up of gases can be toxic, asphyxiating or explosive even in low concentrations. Therefore, a number of our engineers and asset inspectors have recently been trained in the use of 4-way gas detectors to monitor and alert of harmful concentrations of Carbon Monoxide, COMB EX (Combined Explosives), Oxygen, and Hydrogen Sulphide.
This ensures that we can provide high quality services whilst maintaining a Safe System of Work and reducing risk to our employees. Additionally, this benefits the client as by utilising this collective safety measures rather than hiring individual ventilators, project costs can be reduced by providing quick, easy instruments that do not require specialist training, low hire costs and require minimal set up time.
For further information on confined spaces, including legislation, publications and other risks, please visit HSE’s website at: Confined spaces – HSE. Alternatively, for any asset inspection queries, or other work, please contact our Lichfield office at: 0330 223 6475 or enquiries@rabconsultants.co.uk.