Service to Prevent Deaths in Confined Space Work Such as Manholes... Gyeonggi-do Pilot Implementation

KOSHA Launches 'One-Call for Asphyxiation Accident Prevention' Service
Pilot Program in Gyeonggi-do Region... Nationwide Expansion Next Year
Experts Conduct On-Site Inspections, Safety Training, and Equipment Rental

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bo-kyung] A comprehensive service to fundamentally prevent fatal accidents in confined spaces such as manholes, water and sewage systems, septic tanks, and wastewater treatment facilities will be piloted in the Gyeonggi-do region.

The Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA) will operate the "One-Call Service for Asphyxiation Accident Prevention" starting on the 28th, where experts visit sites upon phone request from workplaces with confined space operations to assess hazards and provide preventive equipment.

When a workplace planning to conduct confined space work requests the service by phone, experts in the relevant fields visit the site to measure oxygen and harmful gas concentrations and support worker safety training.

Additionally, if preventive equipment such as gas detectors, ventilation fans, and supplied-air respirators are needed, they are delivered directly to the site and later collected. Training on safe usage is also provided when equipment is rented.

This year, the pilot will be conducted in 18 areas of Gyeonggi-do, and free on-site services can be received by contacting the representative number. Outside the service areas, equipment can be rented by visiting the nearest KOSHA branch.

Ryu Jang-jin, Head of Technology at KOSHA, stated, "Confined space work is performed temporarily and intermittently, leading to a lack of risk awareness and burden regarding preventive equipment, making accidents more likely. We plan to expand the pilot service into a regular program next year to enhance workplace safety and reduce fatal accidents."