The characteristics of a confined space cause it to present unique hazards. Yesterday's miners knew some of the dangers of a confined space. Miners once took a bird into the mine. When the bird died, the miners knew the atmosphere within the mine was getting dangerous. The death of the bird told the miners it was time to leave.
Confined spaces present many dangers-some of which the miners of yesterday never knew.
If you work in a confined space, you should know your company's procedures for safely entering into the space and working in it. Confined spaces should be identified and classified, and safe entry procedures developed. In the event of such an emergency, you should never enter a confined space to rescue someone without the proper equipment, training, and atmospheric testing. Chances are, whatever caused the illness or injury will claim you as a victim too. It is possible to work safely in a confined space, but it's a task that requires careful planning and preparation.