Confined Space Works

As is common with hospitals, Royal Bolton Hospital has a complex set of M&S systems that supply power, data, and medical gases to wards and other facilities throughout the estate.

These systems and the voids and ducts they run through present significant risks of fire so are fitted with a complex fire alarm and emergency lighting system.

A previous contractor that had been maintaining this system had isolated several faults, leaving the several parts unprotected.

To correct this, we were appointed to undertake works in the confined space areas where the services run.

We began by accessing the voids and tunnels to survey the systems, allowing us to the develop a proposal to restore the fire alarm and emergency lighting systems.

With this work complete, we have gone on to service and maintain these systems to ensure they remain compliant, and the hospital continues to operate safely.

The location of these fire alarm and emergency lighting systems presented several challenges, most notably the increased risks of working in confined spaces where asbestos, explosive gas, and electrical systems are present.

This required a careful and considered approach to ensure the surveys and works have been undertaken safely.

A team of confined space trained engineers were assigned to the works who, along with our in-house Compliance Team, undertook a risk assessment of the site and the work to establish the correct methodology for working safely.

This approach included:

• A full powered Drager respirator system to protect the engineers.
• Gas monitor sets worn by each engineer.
• Explosive atmosphere torches and radios.
• Full oxygen rescue kits used in the confined spaces by the engineers.
• Clear communication to monitor the situation including checks of oxygen levels.
• A two-person down, one above approach ensures no lone working in the tunnels and ducting.

This approach has ensured that all work undertaken in these areas has been undertaken safely with no accidents or incidents occurring.

We have also successfully restored the fire alarm and emergency lighting systems to full operation, providing improved safety and compliance for the hospital and the staff and patients that care and are cared for in it every day.