9.
Entering Confined Space
When entering confined space, follow
this procedure:
a. The entrant should move slowly and
smoothly into the confined space
(either vertical or horizontal).
b. The attendant should turn the winch
handle counter-clockwise to pay out
the lifeline.
IMPORTANT
Do not use the winch if turning the
handle clockwise pays out the lifeline.
The internal brakes are engaged only
when the handle operating direction
retrieves the lifeline when the handle is
turned clockwise. The reverse cable
protector should prevent backwards
winding of cable.
c. Wearing gloves, place one hand on
the lifeline to guide it as it extends.
Use your hand to maintain a slight
pull on the cable at all times.
d. For a vertical entry, maintain the swing angle at less than 5
while working. The entrant can be seriously injured if the
swing angle exceeds 5°.
e. If the entrant is not suspended and there is no chance of a
fall, pay out sufficient line (2 ft. max.) so it is slack and the
entrant can work. Hold the lifeline so there is a slight pull
on it at all times.
f. Extend or retract the lifeline as required to keep the line
snug.
g. Maintain communication between the entrant and
attendant at all times. Be sure each knows what the other
is doing.
h. Do not go around corners when entering a confined
space. Body parts, clothing, tools or other items can get
snagged when going around a corner and over obstacles
during retrieval procedure. Corners or sharp edges can
also damage the lifeline as it goes by. Be prepared to do
an entry rescue to assist in the retrieval of a down entrant.
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