What does purging involve in confined spaces?

Purging in confined spaces specifically involves displacing gases or contaminants present in that environment. This process is critical for ensuring safety before any work takes place inside the confined space. Confined spaces can accumulate hazardous gases or vapors that pose serious risks to personnel. By purging the area, you are actively reducing the concentration of these harmful substances, which can help prevent incidents such as explosions or toxic exposure.

The objective of purging is to create a safer atmosphere by introducing a cleaner gas (often air) that can dilute or push out the existing hazardous gases. This is particularly crucial in environments where flammable or toxic gases are likely to accumulate, as it ensures that the air quality meets safety standards before personnel enter.