10 Confined Space Safety Interview Questions (+ Rescue Plan Tips)
1. What is a confined space, and what are its key characteristics?
Sample Answer:
A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed area not designed for continuous occupancy, with limited entry and exit points. Key characteristics include:
- Restricted entry/exit
- Potential hazardous atmosphere (toxic gases, lack of oxygen)
- Risk of engulfment or entrapment
- Not intended for prolonged work
Rescue Plan Tip: Ensure proper hazard assessment before entry and have a rescue team on standby with appropriate equipment.
2. What are the main hazards associated with confined spaces?
Sample Answer:
The main hazards include:
- Oxygen deficiency or enrichment
- Toxic gases (e.g., hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide)
- Flammable atmospheres
- Physical hazards (falling objects, extreme temperatures)
- Engulfment in liquids or loose materials
Rescue Plan Tip: Always test the atmosphere before entry and continuously monitor conditions.
3. What is a permit-required confined space (PRCS)?
Sample Answer:
A PRCS is a confined space that has one or more additional hazards, such as:
- Hazardous atmosphere
- Risk of engulfment
- Internal configuration that could trap a worker
- Any other recognized serious safety or health hazard
Rescue Plan Tip: A written permit system must be in place, detailing hazards, controls, and emergency procedures.
4. What personal protective equipment (PPE) is commonly used in confined spaces?
Sample Answer:
Common PPE includes:
- Respirators (SCBA or air-purifying)
- Harness with retrieval line
- Gas detectors
- Protective clothing (chemical-resistant, flame-resistant)
- Head protection and gloves
Rescue Plan Tip: Ensure PPE is inspected before use and workers are trained in its proper use.
5. How do you test the atmosphere in a confined space?
Sample Answer:
Use a calibrated multi-gas detector to check for:
- Oxygen levels (19.5%–23.5% is safe)
- Flammable gases (<10% LEL)
- Toxic gases (below permissible exposure limits)
Test at multiple levels (top, middle, bottom) since gases stratify.
Rescue Plan Tip: Continuous monitoring is essential; conditions can change rapidly.
6. What is the role of an attendant in confined space work?
Sample Answer:
The attendant (or standby person) monitors the entrant, maintains communication, and initiates rescue if needed. Responsibilities include:
- Tracking who enters/exits
- Monitoring atmospheric conditions
- Summoning emergency help if required
Rescue Plan Tip: The attendant must never enter the space to rescue—only trained rescuers with proper equipment should do so.
7. What are some key elements of a confined space rescue plan?
Sample Answer:
A rescue plan should include:
- Roles and responsibilities of the rescue team
- Equipment needed (tripods, harnesses, ventilation)
- Communication procedures
- Medical response protocols
- Regular drills and training
Rescue Plan Tip: Practice mock rescues frequently to ensure readiness.
8. Why is ventilation important in confined spaces?
Sample Answer:
Ventilation helps:
- Remove hazardous gases
- Maintain safe oxygen levels
- Reduce flammable vapor concentrations
- Control temperature and humidity
Rescue Plan Tip: Use forced-air ventilation when needed, but never rely on it as the sole hazard control.
9. What should you do if a worker collapses inside a confined space?
Sample Answer:
- Do not enter immediately (risk of multiple casualties)
- Call emergency services
- Use non-entry retrieval if possible (tripod and winch)
- Only trained rescuers with proper PPE should attempt entry
Rescue Plan Tip: Time is critical—ensure rescue teams can respond within minutes.
10. How often should confined space training be conducted?
Sample Answer:
- Initial training before first assignment
- Refresher training annually or when:
- Procedures change
- New hazards are identified
- Worker performance indicates a need
Rescue Plan Tip: Document all training sessions and conduct drills to reinforce knowledge.
Final Rescue Plan Tips:
- Always have a dedicated rescue team on standby.
- Use non-entry retrieval whenever possible.
- Ensure communication systems (radios, alarms) are working.
- Conduct post-rescue debriefs to improve procedures.
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