Hiring a Stand by Rescue team mandatory or not?
When working in confined spaces, safety is of the utmost importance. This applies not only to the employees who perform the work, but also to the organization that has this work performed. A frequently asked question is whether it is mandatory to hire a stand-by rescue team for this work. In this blog post we discuss the obligations, risks and benefits of hiring a stand-by rescue team.
What are confined spaces?
Before we get into the obligations surrounding stand-by rescue teams, it is important to understand what we mean by 'confined spaces'. According to the Working Conditions Act, confined spaces are places that are not designed to be continuously occupied, and where risks can occur that could endanger the health and safety of workers. Examples of confined spaces include:
- Storage spaces
- Barrels and tanks
- Sewers and drainage systems
- Ships and containers
- Underground tunnels
The risks of working in confined spaces
Working in confined spaces carries significant risks, including:
- Limited access and evacuation options
- Insufficient ventilation, which can lead to oxygen deficiency or accumulation of dangerous gases
- The risk of collapse or falling objects
- The risk of chemicals or other hazardous substances
These risks make it essential to take adequate measures to ensure the safety of employees.
When is it necessary to hire a Stand by Rescue team?
Although not always mandatory, there are situations where the use of a stand-by rescue team is necessary. These situations may include:
- When working with hazardous substances or gases
- When working in a closed space where oxygen deficiency may occur
- When working with a high risk of physical injury
In these cases, it is vital to hire a standby rescue team to ensure the safety of the workers.
Is't mandatory to hire a stand-by rescue team?
The legislation in the Netherlands does not explicitly state that a stand-by rescue team must always be hired. However, the employer is responsible for the safety of his employees and must ensure that adequate help is available in case of emergency. This may mean that hiring a stand-by rescue team is the best solution to meet this obligation.
Inpractice, we often see that organizations that work in high-risk environments, such as the oil and gas industry, the construction sector, and the chemical industry, deploy a stand-by rescue team as standard. This is not only to comply with legal obligations, but also to ensure the safety of their employees.
Benefits of hiring a Stand by Rescue team
There are several advantages to deploying a standby rescue team:
- Expert support: Stand by rescue teams are trained and experienced in providing assistance in emergency situations. They know exactly what to do to act quickly and effectively.
- Rapid response: In the event of an accident, every second is crucial. A stand-by rescue team can respond immediately, which significantly increases the victim's chances of survival.
- Peace of Mind: Having a professional team on standby gives employees and employers peace of mind knowing that help is available in the event of an accident.
- Trainingand preparatory exercises: Many stand-by rescue teams also offer training for employees so that they know how to act in emergency situations.
Do you have any questions about hiring a stand-by rescue team or would you like more information about our services? Please feel free to contact us. We are ready to help you ensure the safety of your employees.
Conclusion
Hiring a standby Rescue team for confined space work is not always a legal requirement, but it is an important measure to ensure the safety of employees. Employers must take their responsibilities seriously and ensure that adequate help is available in the event of an emergency.
If you are considering carrying out confined space work, it is wise to carefully assess the risks and consider hiring a standby rescue team. This is not only to comply with legal obligations, but also to ensure the safety and well-being of your employees. Investing in a standby rescue team is investing in a safe working environment.