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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration estimates that 53 fatalities and approximately 10,700 injuries could be prevented each year if competent and comprehensive Confined Space entry programs were implemented. These entry programs must educate employees and rescuers to the unique hazards of asphyxiation, entrapment, and exposure to toxic atmospheres.
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Because 60% of all fatalities in confined space rescues
are the rescuers, the Stevens Point Fire Department is committed to adequately training and equipping all members
in performing rescues safely. Members of the Department are trained in safely and effectively entering spaces like boilers, underground lift stations, sewers, and above and below ground storage tanks, to perform a rescue. |
| The Stevens Point Fire Department Confined Space Rescue Program was developed at the request of local industry to assist in complying with the rescue requirements of OSHA standards 29 CFR 1910.146 and ILHR Chapter 32, subchapter VI. | |
| Equipping and training members for these unique rescues requires the financial support of not only county and city governments, but also private industry. This county wide support has made it possible for the SPFD to respond not only within the jurisdictional boundaries of the city, but throughout the entire county, per mutual aid requests. |  |