Confined Space Drainage

what we do

Confined space drainage work demands specialised knowledge, equipment, and procedures to guarantee safety and compliance. These environments present distinct hazards due to limited access, poor ventilation, and the risk of harmful gases or sudden flooding. Exjet offers professional confined space drainage services designed to mitigate risk, safeguard staff, and deliver reliable results for commercial and industrial clients.

What Counts as a Confined Space in Drainage

In drainage networks, confined spaces are defined as areas with limited entry and exit where hazardous conditions may occur. Examples include storm tanks, wet wells, sewer tunnels, culverts, large diameter pipes, manholes, voids, and chambers. Hazards in these locations can range from low oxygen levels and the presence of toxic gases to physical restrictions that hinder access and movement. Working in these environments requires specialist training, appropriate safety equipment, and strict adherence to industry legislation to maintain safe operations at all times.

Minimising the Need for Entry

Our approach consistently aims to avoid confined space entry whenever possible. By utilising advanced technology and remote tools, many drainage issues can be addressed without exposing staff to unnecessary risk. Techniques such as remote jetting, vacuum extraction, and camera inspection are preferred over manned entry, significantly lowering risk. This approach complies with industry legislation and adheres to the principles outlined in the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997, ensuring that entry is treated as a last resort and is only undertaken when no safer alternative is available.

Safe & Compliant Operations

Risk Assessment & Planning

Every confined space project begins with a detailed risk assessment and method statement. Our engineers identify potential hazards, determine the safest approach, and establish all required control measures before work begins. This ensures compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, Confined Spaces Regulations 1997, and HSE Approved Code of Practice L101. We also liaise with relevant authorities, including Water Authority, local councils, and the Environment Agency, where confined space operations affect public drainage assets.

Specialist Training & Equipment

Our staff are trained to high standards, including City & Guilds confined space certification covering low, medium, and high-risk entry. Every operative is equipped with the necessary tools to ensure safety and maintain effective communication throughout an operation. This includes continuous gas monitoring, mechanical ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), and secure retrieval systems such as tripods and winches. These controls ensure that conditions are constantly monitored, allowing teams to work efficiently even in complex or restricted environments.

Emergency Preparedness

We maintain comprehensive rescue and emergency procedures for all confined space works. Rescue equipment is positioned at entry points, and communication systems remain active throughout the operation. Each project includes a pre-agreed emergency plan that defines responsibilities, communication routes, and response actions. This ensures that every confined space entry is supported by robust contingency measures and on-site supervision.

Working in Challenging Environments

Confined spaces are often part of larger, complex drainage networks serving commercial and industrial facilities. Exjet has the experience to work safely in a wide range of challenging environments, including restricted-access chambers, high-traffic areas, and large-scale drainage infrastructure. By combining confined space expertise with broader services such as CCTV surveys, drainage repairs, and planned maintenance, we offer a comprehensive service that keeps drainage systems safe, efficient, and fully operational.

Accreditations & Assurance

We hold recognised accreditations that demonstrate our commitment to safety, quality, and professionalism. These include Constructionline Gold, SafeContractor, UKAS, and Trading Standards approvals. Our work follows strict safety management procedures and complies with all relevant regulations and HSE guidance. For clients, this ensures confidence that confined space drainage services are performed responsibly and to the highest industry standards.

Contact Us About Confined Space Drainage

Exjet offers confined space drainage services throughout Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset, supporting commercial clients needing expert skills in hazardous environments. To discuss your requirements or organise a site assessment, contact the team today.