Accredited Confined Spaces Training for Safe Work in Hazardous Environments

Explore our range of Confined Spaces training courses designed to meet UK safety legislation. Click on a course title to learn more.

The City & Guilds Confined Spaces Low Risk (6160-01) qualification is designed for those who work in low-risk confined spaces, such as shallow inspection chambers or valve pits where there is minimal risk of hazardous gases or flooding. Delegates will learn how to prepare for entry, follow safe working procedures, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and carry out emergency protocols. This City & Guilds accredited course aligns with UK confined space regulations and helps operatives and supervisors meet legal compliance while maintaining workplace safety.

The City & Guilds Confined Spaces Medium Risk (6160-09) course provides comprehensive training for workers and supervisors who operate in medium-risk confined spaces. Participants will learn about atmospheric testing, safe systems of work, entry and exit procedures, and the use of escape breathing apparatus. This course is suitable for anyone who may need to enter confined spaces where there is a potential risk from hazardous atmospheres, water, or other environmental conditions. It supports both Water and Non-Water industry workers in achieving compliance and operational competence.

The City & Guilds Confined Spaces High Risk (6160-03) qualification is intended for operatives and supervisors working in high-risk confined spaces, such as sewers, tanks, or silos where breathing apparatus may be required. The course includes advanced training on hazard identification, gas monitoring, full working breathing apparatus, and emergency rescue procedures. It ensures learners can work safely in complex and hazardous environments while adhering to the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and City & Guilds standards.

This is an awareness course only, this online Working in Confined Spaces course is suitable for people who need to be aware of the hazards and risks of confined space working but are not required to enter a confined space.

The Confined Space Awareness course is suitable for supervisors, managers, and anyone responsible for planning or overseeing confined space work. It provides essential theoretical knowledge, covering hazard recognition, legal duties, permit-to-work systems, and emergency planning. While this awareness training does not qualify individuals to physically enter confined spaces, it ensures that decision-makers fully understand their obligations under UK health and safety legislation, helping them manage confined space operations safely and effectively.

The Confined Space Entry (1-day) course is designed for operatives who are required to enter confined spaces as part of their work. It covers risk assessment, atmospheric testing, safe entry and exit techniques, and the correct use of PPE and communication systems. Delegates will gain hands-on experience in confined space entry procedures, ensuring they can identify hazards, follow safe systems of work, and comply with legal safety requirements. This training provides a strong foundation for safe working practices in confined environments.

The Confined Space Entry (2-day) course is designed for individuals who work in or supervise high-risk confined spaces where full working breathing apparatus is required. Over two intensive days, delegates gain in-depth knowledge of confined space hazards, gas monitoring, rescue planning, and emergency response. The course includes practical exercises in realistic confined space environments, helping participants become proficient in both safe entry procedures and emergency rescue techniques. This advanced course supports compliance and enhances operational safety standards.

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is focused on the correct selection, fitting, use, and maintenance of respiratory equipment. It highlights the importance of Face Fit Testing to ensure an effective seal for each wearer. Delegates learn how to identify the right RPE for various confined space environments, understand legal obligations for employers and employees, and gain practical confidence in using breathing protection to prevent exposure to harmful substances or oxygen-deficient atmospheres.

What is a Confined Space?

Confined spaces are enclosed or partially enclosed areas not designed for continuous human occupancy and have limited access points. These spaces can be hazardous due to poor ventilation, restricted visibility, and potential accumulation of dangerous substances or gases. Examples include storage tanks, silos, vats, sewers, tunnels, and utility vaults.

Working in confined spaces poses various risks and can be dangerous. Some hazards associated with confined spaces include:

Oxygen Deficiency or Enrichment

Lack of oxygen or excessive amounts can lead to asphyxiation or increase the risk of fire or explosion.
Presence of toxic substances: Confined spaces may contain hazardous chemicals, gases, or vapours that can cause respiratory issues, poisoning, or other health problems.

Engulfment

Workers can become trapped or engulfed by loose materials, such as grain, sand, or water, leading to suffocation or drowning.

Physical Hazards

Limited visibility, uneven surfaces, or obstacles in confined spaces increase the risk of falls, trips, or injuries.
Machinery or equipment risks: Some confined spaces contain machinery, electrical equipment, or moving parts that can entrap or injure workers.

To ensure worker safety in confined spaces, specific safety measures and procedures should be followed:

Risk Assessment

Thoroughly assess confined spaces to identify potential hazards and determine appropriate control measures.

Permit-to-work System

Implement a permit system that ensures proper authorisation, communication, and supervision for work in confined spaces.

Training

Provide specialised confined space training to workers involved in confined space entry, including hazard awareness, emergency procedures, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Ventilation

Ensure sufficient ventilation to maintain safe oxygen levels and remove hazardous gases or vapours.

Monitoring

Regularly monitor confined spaces using gas detectors or appropriate instruments to assess oxygen levels and detect toxic gases.

Emergency Procedures

Establish clear emergency protocols, including rescue plans, communication methods, and availability of rescue equipment.

Always consult local regulations and guidelines specific to your jurisdiction, as requirements for working in confined spaces may vary.

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