Adopting IOT technologies to control risks in confined space: A multi-criteria decision tool

Work in confined spaces is still causing fatal accidents and injuries, despite the reinforcement of the worldwide regulatory and standards. Confined spaces are defined as limited or restricted areas not designed for continuous occupancy where employees enter and perform a specific task. Examples of confined spaces include, but are not limited to tanks, vessels, silos and pipelines. Several publications, reports and recent news demonstrate the great impact of such risks on the occupational safety level, showing high accident rates and multiple-fatality incidents. This study aims to evaluate the potential contribution of Internet of Things (IOT) technologies to prevent and control the risks of confined space work. After a first legislative overview and a literature review on the topic, the authors conceptualize an AHP (Analytical Hierarchy process) model for analysing how critical factors affecting dangerous scenarios in confined spaces could affect the assessment of an IOT based device for preventing and managing confined spaces risks. The model aims to support both safety managers and risk analysts in reducing hazards in confined spaces. A case study in the chemical industry is proposed to validate the approach.