Confined Space

A confined space is any area that:

  • Has a limited opening for entry or exit that can be as small as 18"
  • Is difficult to move through
  • Is open topped (pits, excavations)
  • May require ladders or hoists to enter and exit

Confined spaces may have unfavorable natural ventilation including:

  • Not enough oxygen
  • Deadly gases trapped inside
  • Too much oxygen, which can increase the chances of an explosion

Confined spaces may have unfavorable natural ventilation including:

  • Not enough oxygen
  • Deadly gases trapped inside
  • Too much oxygen, which can increase the chances of an explosion

Confined spaces are not designed for continuous worker occupancy.

A “permit required confined space” is a confined space with at least one of the following characteristics:

  1. Hazardous atmosphere
  2. Engulfment potential
  3. Entrapping design

 

Employer Obligations

1. Evaluate the work place for “permit required confined spaces”

2. Take the following actions when a confined space is identified:

  • Post signs or warnings.
  • Use barriers or other means to keep unauthorized personnel out.
  • Develop and use a written space entry program.
  • Conduct air monitoring and other tests to evaluate the hazards in each space.
  • State entry conditions that make the space acceptable for entry.
  • Ventilate or otherwise eliminate the space’s hazards before allowing entry.

3. Entry into a confined space is not allowed unless there is a signed permit that identifies:

  • The space to be entered
  • Purpose, date, length of stay
  • Name of workers allowed to enter
  • Name of attendant
  • Name of entry supervisor
  • Acceptable entry conditions
  • Equipment to be used in the space
  • Available emergency and rescue services and their phone numbers
  • Hazards of the space
  • Results of initial and periodic testing
  • Measures used to isolate the space and eliminate or control the hazard
  • Additional permits that may relate to the space
  • Any other special employee limitations

4. Test to help ensure that conditions are acceptable. Testing must be done in this sequence:

  • Oxygen content
  • Combustible gases and vapors
  • Toxic gases and vapors

5. Provide at least one attendant.

6. Develop and implement a rescue and emergency system.

7. Coordinate procedures when a contractor or another employee is involved with a confined space.

8. Review the confined space program annually.

This topic is important and much more information can be found in the Toolbox Talk on the MEA website, including information on the following:

  • Entry Supervisor Duties
  • Entrant Duties
  • Attendant Duties
  • Other Safety Tips
  • Rescues

Notes:  For more information, see OSHA CFR Title 29, Part 1910.146, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.