What is the role of an attendant in a confined space rescue operation?

The role of an attendant in a confined space rescue operation is crucial for ensuring the safety of all personnel involved. The attendant is responsible for monitoring authorized entrants who are working inside the confined space. This includes maintaining constant communication with the entrants, keeping track of their activity, and being alert to any signs of distress or emergencies that may arise. The attendant acts as a safety watchdog, ready to initiate rescue procedures if necessary and ensuring that the entrants can exit safely if conditions within the confined space change.

Attendants also play a vital role in adhering to safety protocols, such as ensuring that permits are in order and that appropriate safety measures, like ventilation and air monitoring, are being implemented. Their presence is essential for maintaining situational awareness and facilitating communications between the rescue team and those inside the confined space, enabling an effective response should an incident occur.