Whether it’s for a manufacturer, construction company or local shipyard, many employees today still work in “permit-required confined spaces.” A permit-required confined space is a space that:
•Meets the 3 characteristics of a confined space we just discussed, and, in addition, has one or more of the following characteristics:
•It contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere.
•It contains a material that has the potential for engulfing an entrant.
•Has an internal configuration that could trap or asphyxiate an entrant.
•Or, contains any other recognized safety or health hazard. Working inside permit-required confined spaces poses additional risks that must be managed in order for the work to be performed safety.
Last month, more than 50 CTEH staffers underwent training to keep employees safe if and when a confined space rescue occurs. During the training, they reviewed OSHA regulations that pertain to entries such as respiratory protection, personal protective equipment, air monitoring, Lockout Tagout and space reclassification. They also discussed different training requirements for entrants, attendants, supervisors and rescuers. The team later put this knowledge to use with simulated rescue activities.
Have questions about permit-required confined spaces? Find out more at osha.gov.