Confined Spaces: How to Consider and Manage Human Factors

Episode 132

Confined Spaces: How to Consider and Manage Human Factors

Editor Sydny Shepard discusses hazards found in a confined space and how human factors should be considered with Chason Coelho, Senior Managing Scientist at Exponent.

There is a lot to consider when you are a safety professional. There’s the rules, right? The standards, regulations, guidelines and best practices that set forth safe work for employees but there’s also outside forces that contend with the policies and procedures you so painstakingly put together. Sometimes, those outside forces are human factors that are traditionally incredibly hard to deal with.

On this episode of the podcast, I have with me Dr. Chason Coelho, a Senior Managing Scientist in the Human Factors Practice at Exponent. Chason and I have been talking for nearly a year about bringing him on the podcast to talk about some cognitive effects of safety and I’m so pleased to talk with him today about one of the most dangerous places an employee can work: in a confined space.

During the course of the episode, Chason and I discuss the hazards found in a confined space, how human factors should be considered when planning for confined space procedures and how to mitigate issues that arise due to human factors. 

If you have a topic you'd like us to cover on OH&S SafetyPod, feel free to email us at [email protected].

Download or stream this episode today at Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and more

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the former editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

Product Showcase

  • Magellan X Pte Ltd

    Hesitate No More with SOL-X Connected Worker Health & Safety Solution

    According to the National Safety Council, work-related medically consulted injuries total 4.26 million in 2021 in USA alone. SOL-X solution prevents “human factors” safety issues by anticipating incidents and improving compliance workflows. Leverages digital technologies (IIoT, AI and analytics) to predict patterns from occurring and make informed decisions. Control Of Work - gets rid of tedious paperwork and experience digital workflows. Crew Protect - maximises safety and situational awareness with health trackers and situational indicators. Award-winning Intrinsically Safe SmartWatch – innovative features that enable near real-time visibility and connected well-being. Works well with major connectivity protocols like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Long-Range Bluetooth! 3

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi-gas detector that runs continuously for three years without needing to be recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Additionally, it is durable enough to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, which is why it has an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as Gas Clip Technologies’ new GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. 3

  • Make selection & use of SRLs simpler with the new V-SHOCK line

    Make selection & use of SRLs simpler with the new V-SHOCK line

    The new MSA V-SHOCK EDGE Cable SRLs and Web PFLs for Leading Edge use are designed for simplicity and hassle-free safety. V-SHOCK EDGE solutions help make PPE selection on the jobsite quick and easy with color-coded housings, clear icons on labels, and clearance charts in the label pack. 3

Featured