28/10/2026
ToolBox Talk #50 | Air Quality in Offshore Work
The air around a job can change as work begins. Abrasive blasting creates dust; coating and cleaning products can release vapours; welding produces fumes. In tanks and other enclosed spaces, hazardous gases or too little oxygen may be present even when there is no obvious warning.
Before the task, identify what could enter the air and who might be exposed, including people working nearby. Confirm that the required permits, atmospheric tests, ventilation and respiratory protection are in place. A space must be assessed and cleared for entry by an authorised person before anyone enters.
During the task, keep the controls working and follow the monitoring requirements in the work plan. If ventilation fails, an alarm sounds, conditions change or a worker feels unwell, stop work, leave the affected area and report it. Do not re-enter until the atmosphere has been reassessed and the work is authorised to resume.
At Southey Contracting’s Offshore Division, protecting air quality is part of protecting every person involved in inspection, maintenance and asset integrity work.
Check the air. Control the exposure. Speak up when conditions change.