Dangerous substances and radiations

• Pages: 193-197

21. Dangerous substances and radiations

21.1. General provisions

2111 Harmful atmospheric contaminants such as dusts,

fibres, fumes, gases and mists should be rendered harmless as near

their point of origin as practicable by removal, suppression or

other effective means.

21.1.2. When harmful atmospheric contaminants cannot be

rendered harmless, workers exposed to them should be provided

with respiratory protective equipment complying with the relevant

requirements of paragraphs 36.1.38 to 36.1.46.

21.1.3. Where necessary to prevent danger, the atmosphere

of workplaces should be tested for harmful contaminants at

suitable intervals by a competent person.

Confined spaces

21.1.4. No person should enter a confined space such as a

room, pit, shaft, sewer or tank in which it is reasonable to expect

that toxic, asphyxiating, flammable or other dangerous gases may

be present or may accumulate, or oxygen may be deficient, unless:

the atmosphere has been found to be safe after a suitable test

and such tests are repeated at suitable intervals; and

adequate ventilation is provided.

21.1.5. If the conditions in the preceding paragraph cannot

conveniently be fuffilled, persons may enter such spaces for

prescribed periods using a hose mask or self-contained breathing

device.

21.1.6. While a worker is in a confined space:

adequate facilities should be readily available for rescuing

him;

an attendant or attendants should be stationed at or near the

opening; and

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