How to Choose the Right Retrieval Device for Confined Space Rescues in Public Buildings

Public buildings — from municipal water treatment plants and schools to hospitals and government facilities — often contain confined spaces like boiler rooms, utility vaults, or maintenance tunnels. While these spaces may not seem hazardous day to day, they still pose serious risks in an emergency, especially if a worker becomes incapacitated inside.

So, how do you choose the right retrieval device for these environments — one that meets Canadian regulations, protects your staff, and keeps costs reasonable?

What the Regulations Say

In Canada, employers must follow provincial OH&S regulations and CSA standards (like CSA Z1006-16) when managing confined space entry and rescue. These standards require:

• A non-entry rescue system whenever feasible
• Retrieval devices that are readily available, functional, and designed to minimize risk
• An emergency response plan specific to each confined space
• Equipment that doesn’t increase the risk to the rescuer

While some situations require full technical rescue teams, most public building confined spaces are classified as low-risk — and that’s where traditional gear becomes excessive and expensive.

Why Dragon Hooks Is the Smarter Choice

Dragon Hooks from Irwin’s Safety is an innovative Canadian-made retrieval solution designed specifically for low-risk confined spaces. It looks like a standard coverall — but acts like a life-saving rescue system.

Built for Simplicity. Certified for Safety.

• Integrated Retrieval Points: Built-in shoulder hardpoints make it easy for standby attendants to hook up and initiate non-entry rescue using standard SRLs or winches.
• Meets CSA Compliance: Designed to align with Canadian rescue standards and simplify compliance in municipal and institutional settings.
• No Need for Harnesses: Eliminates the need to layer retrieval harnesses under or over regular PPE.
• Cost-Efficient: Reduces the need for expensive technical rescue coverage on low-risk sites — while still ensuring your team is protected.
• Designed for Real-World Use: Comfortable, durable, and field-tested in Canadian environments.

Ideal for Public Sector Applications

Dragon Hooks is the perfect fit for confined spaces in:

• Schools and universities
• Water and wastewater treatment facilities
• Municipal buildings and infrastructure
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Government and defense sites

If your site has monitored atmospheric conditions, limited access points, and a trained standby attendant, Dragon Hooks provides a reliable retrieval method that minimizes both risk and expense.

Peace of Mind — Without the Full Rescue Team

Choosing the right retrieval device means balancing safety, compliance, and cost. Dragon Hooks empowers public institutions to do exactly that.

✅ Safer work
✅ Easier compliance
✅ Smarter budgeting

Want to learn more or see Dragon Hooks in action?