It is only useful to hold exercises on a regular basis in order to maintain skills and uncover weaknesses.
Base It on Regulation
The HSE’s introduction to confined spaces explains that suitable rescue arrangements must be in place before work commences and that Suitable Rescue Arrangements (SRRAs) should be practised at least once every 6 months.
Factor In Team Changes
For incidents where rescue team members have left, joined or changed roles within the team, a practice drill should be carried out within a few weeks to ensure the new team members are integrated into a working rescue team.
Design Realistic Scenarios
Every drill should include realistic testing of all elements of rescue, including communications, method of casualty removal and atmosphere monitoring. These elements should be put through their paces within the confined space that your rescue team will use in real life. If you want Confined Space Rescue, www.agofirerescue.com/confined-space-rescue/ is a good place to start.
Record and Review Every Drill
Record against the date the drill was completed the following information: description of drill scenario, all people who took part, anything that went wrong.
Use Unannounced Drills Occasionally
While a planned Confined Space Rescue Drill will show how your team would perform given they have been advised in advance of the drill date and time, an unannounced Confined Space Rescue Drill provides the most realistic method of evaluating whether your rescue arrangements will work when it really matters. Consider holding one or two unannounced drills per year on top of your scheduled exercises.
A schedule of realistic drills, reviewed after each exercise, is the best way to keep arrangements up to date and fit for purpose.
