What type of ventilation should be used to make a confined space safe before entry?

In confined spaces, ensuring safety before entry is paramount, and forced air ventilation is the optimal choice for this purpose. This type of ventilation actively introduces fresh, uncontaminated air into the space, which is crucial for diluting potential hazardous gases and ensuring a breathable atmosphere. By using fans or blowers, forced air ventilation can effectively replace stagnant or contaminated air, thereby significantly reducing the levels of toxic substances or lack of oxygen.

Naturally circulated air relies on passive airflow, which may not effectively address issues in a confined space where air movement is restricted. Cooling fans and heated air, while useful in certain contexts, do not directly contribute to the removal of hazards or the introduction of safe breathing air. Therefore, forced air ventilation is vital in making a confined space safe before entry, as it ensures that environmental conditions meet safety standards.