Confined Space Basics

One of the specialized categories of safety equipment we offer is confined space. This is a category some of our clients will never need. However, the ones who do need it must ensure they are selecting all needed PPE and equipment, and that their workers know how to properly use this equipment (OSHA Standard 1910.146(d)(4)). 

OSHA tells us that a confined space: 

“(1) Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work; and

(2) Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit (For example, tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits are spaces that may have limited means of entry.); and

(3) Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.” (OSHA Standard 1910.146 - Permit-required confined spaces).

A “permit-required confined space” is a work area that meets one of the following criteria. It either “contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere; contains material that has the potential to engulf an entrant; has walls that converge inward or floors that slope downward and taper into a smaller area which could trap or asphyxiate an entrant; or contains any other recognized safety or health hazard, such as unguarded machinery, exposed live wires, or heat stress” (OSHA Confined Spaces Overview).

So, what does all of this mean for you? First, it means that upon evaluating your workplace for permit-required confined spaces, you may need to take additional steps in your safety program. According to the OSHA Standard 1910.146, if permit-required spaces are present in your workplace, you must post danger signs or otherwise inform employees of the location and potential danger of the space. (Here is a sign that meets this requirement.)

Next, you must discern whether employees will need to enter the permit-required spaces. If the answer is “no”, you will need to take “effective measures” to prevent employees from entering. If the answer is “yes”, you will need to develop and enforce a written permit-required space program in compliance with OSHA’s requirements.

Finally, in the case of work being done in these spaces, you will need to review the unique needs of your setting and provide the appropriate safety equipment. There are a lot of considerations listed in the standard which should be reviewed in full when creating your plan. For example, 1910.146(d)(3)(v) states that you may need to provide pedestrian, vehicle, or other barriers as necessary to protect entrants from external hazards. 

This quick overview can serve as a jumping-off point. However, if you do have permit-required confined space risks present for your employees, it is essential to read the entirety of this standard and ensure that you are addressing each relevant point in your plan. Risks can be elevated in these spaces, but you can take steps to be prepared. 

As with all aspects of your safety plan, we are here to help connect you with the equipment and PPE needed to ensure that your crews are safe. Give us a call at 919-602-2503 or reach out to marketing@safetypackonline.com with any questions you have!

Resources:

• OSHA Standard 1910.146 - Permit-required confined spaces: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.146

• OSHA Confined Spaces Overview: https://www.osha.gov/confined-spaces