What are the two most important safety concerns when entering a confined space?

Oxygen deficiency and hazardous gases are critical safety concerns when entering a confined space because these environments often lack adequate ventilation, leading to a risk of suffocation or exposure to harmful substances. When oxygen levels drop below safe thresholds, workers can experience dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness, or even fatality. Additionally, confined spaces can harbor hazardous gases, such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane, which can be present due to various industrial processes or natural decay. Detecting these hazards before and during entry is vital to ensure the safety of the workers involved.

In contrast, while temperature extremes and humidity might affect comfort and operational efficiency, they are less immediately hazardous than the life-threatening risks posed by inadequate oxygen or toxic gases. The presence of wildlife and parasites, while relevant in certain outdoor environments, is not usually a concern in typical confined spaces associated with industrial or construction work. Lastly, noise and vibration can impact worker performance and safety, but they do not pose the same direct risks to life and health as the concerns related to oxygen levels and hazardous gases.