Confined Space Safety

An overview of the hazards and regulatory requirements associated with confined space work.

Confined Spaces Have the Following

Characteristics:

Limited means of entrance and exit

Not designed for continuous occupancy

Adequate size for employees to enter

Some examples of Confined Spaces

Manholes

Silos

Storage Tanks

Pipelines

Hazards of confined space work

Toxic atmospheres

Low oxygen

Fires and explosions

Chemical exposures

Permits

Entry into confined spaces requires a permit

The permit must contain specific information and be approved by the site supervisor

Basic Rules of Confined Space Safety

Never enter a confined space without the proper authorization

Test the atmosphere before entering

Assure good ventilation

Use proper PPE

If Confined Space Entryis Necessary

Make sure that the space is safe

Make sure that a proper permit has been prepared and signed

Prepare for the worst - have a rescue plan

                       

               

Over 50% of workers killed in confined spaces are trying to rescueother workers!

Prepare in advance

Don’t enter the space unless you are trained and have the proper PPE

Remember

Always have an attendant on the outside of the space who is in visual or audible contact with the confined space worker

If communication is lost, the job is over!

                      

                

Summary Points

Confined spaces are, by nature, hazardous workplaces.

Permits are required to assure that the confined space work is conducted safely.

A well planned confined space entry will always include a rescue plan.

50% of confined space deaths result from rescue attempts.