How do I prepare for a confined space course?
This FAQ will help you prepare for your confined space course.
Q: How is the course organized?
- Confined Space Awareness – 4 hours of theory in a classroom setting
- Confined Space Entry and Attendant – 1 day of classroom and confined space simulator practical training
- Confined Space Basic Rescue – 1 day classroom, 1 day in a simulator or on-site
- Confined Space Non IDLH Rescue – 1 day in a classroom, 2 days in a simulator or on-site
- Confined Space IDLH Rescue – 1 day in the classroom, 3 days in a simulator or on-site
- Confined Space Operator – 1 day in a classroom, 3 days in a simulator or on-site
- Confined Space Technician – 1 day in a classroom, 3 days in a simulator or on-site
Q. How long does the course run each day?
Courses run approximately 8 a.m – 5 p.m. with a break for lunch. The exception is Confined Space Awareness which is only 4 hours in length.
Q: Do I have to attend the whole course?
100% attendance is required to receive certification.
Q. Will I get a confirmation that the confined space course is going ahead?
Approximately 7-10 days before the course, you will receive an email to confirm details such as classroom location, start time, the instructor’s name and contact information for any last minute issues.
Q. What do I need for the classroom session?
- Be prepared for note-taking
- Class III (full-body harness)
- Rope rescue helmet
- Coveralls or durable clothing
- Boots (hiking boots are fine)
- Leather-palmed gloves (work gloves are fine)
- Headlamp
- Kneepads
Q. I don’t own a harness or climbing helmet. Can I rent them?
We provide harnesses and helmet for every student upon request – no charge.
Charges will apply if equipment is lost or damaged. Please follow instructions for putting on and taking off gear.
Q. Is pre-reading required?
No pre-reading is needed.
Q. Are meals included?
You are responsible for your own food. Please bring:
- Lots of water
- A good lunch and snacks as needed
- Hot drink in a thermos (optional)
Q. What if I’m scared of performing the skills on the course?
While getting banged and bruised is not outside the realm of possibility during a technical rescue training course, in order to receive a certification you are not required to do anything you are uncomfortable with. Raven recognizes that caution and knowing personal limits is a sign of a good rescuer.
Therefore, our approach is “Challenge by Choice.” If you wish to observe a specific activity only, please advise the instructor immediately. This will be noted on your skill sheet and should be shared with your supervisor.
However, this also means that if you cannot demonstrate knowledge of key skills, your certification may be downgraded to the appropriate level by the Instructor.
Q. What kind of paperwork do I get?
- A certificate of completion (digital)
- Personalized skill sheet (training record) documenting the skills and knowledge you performed or observed. You should give a copy of this to your supervisor as it is proof you have taken the course. Keep your copy in a safe place.
- Registration in the student database so that your credentials can be verified with a phone call or email
- Course text
Q. How long is my certification valid for?
Your confined space course certifications are valid for three years from date of issue. We offer discounted rates for re-certification as long as your certification is still valid when you register.
Q. I’ve heard I can audit for free?
Anytime during the three-year period that your certification is valid, you are welcome are to audit the same course — for free – to practice and refresh your skills.
We’ll even sign your skill sheet to prove you’ve been practicing your skills. This does not take the place of a re-certification as it does not extend the length of your certification, but regular practice is necessary to keep your skills at an operational level.
