Confined Space Entry

Confined spaces occur in numerous location in many industries. Death or injury from confined spaces can result from dangerous gases or vapors, fires or explosions or physical hazards.

OSHA defines a confined space as one that is large enough for an employee to enter, has restricted means of entry or exit, and is not designed for continous employee occupancy. Physical hazards inside may be from moving parts inside large machinery or from connecting pipes that may allow liquids or gases to enter the confined space. Confined spaces due not always allow flow of normal atmospheric air and oxygen deficiency which can lead to disorentation, unconsciouness and then death.

The 29 CFR 1910.146 contains additional information on the requirements on working in confined spaces.