What is the 'warm zone' in the context of confined space rescue?

The 'warm zone' in the context of confined space rescue refers to the area situated between the hot zone—where the actual hazardous conditions exist—and the cold zone, which is the safe area where personnel are not exposed to hazards. The warm zone acts as a transition area where personnel may need to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) but can also decontaminate or prepare for entry into the hot zone.

This zone is crucial for maintaining safety protocols during rescue operations because it allows for the management of risks while keeping emergency responders protected from the hazards present in the hot zone. In this area, rescue personnel can remove some of their protective gear after exiting the hot zone while still being mindful of potential contamination or exposure risks that may still exist.

Establishing and maintaining this distinction between the zones ensures that all personnel involved in the rescue operate in a safe manner, adhering to protocols that protect both them and any individuals they are rescuing.