Equipping Facilities with HSE Training Grounds for Work at Heights and in Confined Spaces: Overlooked Requirements

One of the tools for improving the quality of worker training for working at heights and in confined and enclosed spaces (hereinafter referred to as CS) is the use of HSE training ground infrastructure during the learning process.

In addition to providing training for certification groups, training grounds can be used for internships, periodic knowledge assessments of safe methods and techniques for working at heights and in CS, and training on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) against falls from heights and respiratory protective equipment.

The composition of training components is determined by the nature of the work performed and the specific characteristics of the workplaces for each organization individually. At the same time, it is necessary to consider the existing material and technical base, including individual and collective protection equipment.

Training grounds must be equipped with the engineering and technical utility networks required for the facility to operate as intended.

When designing an HSE training ground, attention should also be paid to the following parameters:

1. Requirements for training ground locations depending on the climatic zone. When positioning training ground structures, environmental conditions and hazardous production factors must be considered (presence of corrosive environments, low/high temperatures, air movement, precipitation at the installation site). These factors can cause accelerated corrosion of structural components and limit the period of use of the training ground during the calendar year.
2. Functional zones. The following functional zones should be provided: administrative, storage, domestic, future development zone, etc. The presence and composition of functional zones are determined by the purpose of the training ground and the scope of activities performed.
3. Security of training ground facilities. Ensuring the security of training ground facilities can be achieved by: equipping facilities with engineering and technical security systems (CCTV, access control and management systems, security guards, alarms), and equipping checkpoints and entrances with video surveillance systems that provide 24/7 video recording.

An important role for the effective operation of a training ground is played by the training of instructors from among the enterprise's employees and the educational and methodological support of the training process: practical tasks, scenarios for evacuation work, assessment tools, and checklists for verifying theoretical knowledge and practical skills.