AT ERS we pride ourselves on our Combined Space training programme. Our purpose-built training area provides a realistic environment for hands-on experience in confined space scenarios. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and safety measures, our facility offers a safe and controlled setting for practical training exercises, enabling participants to apply their knowledge effectively. At our training facility in Blackwood we have 5m decent into 60m of tunnels with various obstacles and hazards. We introduce smoke & sound, light & dark to make the training as realistic as possible after classroom training has taken place. All feedback has agreed that this has proved vital for ensuring confidence in being able to deliver confined space assistance once qualified. It has also proved that a few trainees were unable to cope with the claustrophobia and panic when in full BA in the tunnels therefore rendering them unable to be placed in that situation, something they did not realise and would have found out too late once out in field.

At the end of the training, successful delegates will have an understanding of:

• Confined space legislation and how classifications are given (NC, low/medium/high-risk)
• Safe systems of work and risk assessments
• Types of access equipment and when to use them
• Method statements and other supporting materials
• Entry permits - what they are and who needs them
• Methods of communication for safe working in confined spaces and rescue
• Atmospheric hazards - gas, chemicals, harmful substances, oxygen and more
• Respiratory protective equipment including entry, escape and airline
• PPE requirements for all workers
• Emergency procedures for safe working practices