Confined Space Definition: Any area with limited entrance and egress that is not intended for human habitation. Examples include manholes, pipes, tanks, tunnels, wells, and silos. Educate workers about the risks of working in confined spaces, confined space hazards, confined space entry and the safety measures to mitigate these risks.
Classifying Confined Space Permit Type
Every confined space is considered a Permit-Required Confined Space unless it is evaluated and re-classified by a competent person. A competent person is trained in confined space safety and is able to identify hazards. A competent person must also have the authority to enforce safety on the project. To evaluate a confined space, the competent person must conduct a thorough analysis of the atmosphere inside the space checking oxygen levels, and looking for flammable gas, poison gas, and unsafe particles. Atmosphere analysis should be conducted using a tested and calibrated gas monitor. Continuous monitoring is essential while working inside a confined space.
Identify Confined Space Hazards & Issue Confined Space Entry Permits
The competent person must also check for the presence of active hazards. Examples include: moving machinery, electrical equipment, fall hazards, engulfment, and flooding. If any hazards are identified, an entry permit must be developed. The entry permit needs to identify the hazards and control procedures the duration of the work. Develop a rescue plan for workers inside the space. All workers entering the confined space must be familiar with the requirements of the permit and be equipped with a harness and lifeline attached to a retrieval system capable of lifting workers out of the confined space.
Non-Permit Confined Space Entry Permits
A Non-Permit-Required Confined Space is a space that meets the definition of a confined space but does not contain the hazards that would require an entry permit. A non-permit required confined space does not require permit entry procedures, but workers must still continuously monitor the atmosphere inside the space. If conditions change inside the space at any point, it must be re-evaluated and re-classified. It is recommended that ventilation be continuously supplied to the confined space and that a retrieval system be implemented during non-permit-required entries. Equipment such as tripods, winches, lanyards, body harnesses and portable fans with air ducts are easy to install and use. Such equipment should be standard issue for any crew working inside confined spaces.
For more information on confined space safety, read OSHA’s rules on confined space entry.
https://www.osha.gov/confined-spaces
Confined Space Entry Safety for Your Workforce
Ensuring the safety of your workforce during confined space entry is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a fundamental responsibility. Investing in confined space safety is an investment in your team’s well-being and your organization’s long-term success. Make it a priority, and you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a safer, more efficient workforce.