Confined Spaces in Construction

Confined spaces can be deadly and are a leading cause of occupational fatalities. Some confined spaces are more hazardous than others. Confined space conditions can change rapidly from no hazards to life-threatening hazards. Some confined spaces are so hazardous, a written permit system is required for entry. The hazards of confined spaces can often be controlled or eliminated before entering.

Confined Space in Construction Large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter it. Limited or restricted means of entry or exit Not designed for continuous occupancy It must have all three characteristics to be a confined space.

Confined Spaces in Construction OSHA specifically exempts the following: Construction work regulated by Subpart P excavations. Construction work regulated by Subpart S – underground Construction work regulated by Subpart Y – diving. Mining (MSHA), Shipyards (Part 1915), Agriculture (Part 1928).

Tanks Manholes Boilers Furnaces Sewers Silos Hoppers Digesters Vaults Pipes Tunnels Ducts Bins Pits Trenches Attics Crawl Spaces

Hazardous (Permit-required) Confined Space Actual or potential hazardous atmosphere Materials could engulf entrant Internal shape could trap entrant Contains other serious hazards

Confined Spaces in Construction Confined spaces such as manholes, crawl spaces, and tanks – are not designed for continuous occupancy and are difficult to exit in the event of an emergency. Construction workers building or performing tasks in confined spaces face life-threatening hazards including toxic substances, electrocutions, explosions, and asphyxiation.

Confined Space Hazards Physical hazards Engulfment hazards Entrapment Oxygen deficiency Combustibility Toxic air contaminants

Physical Hazards Mechanical equipment Moving parts Gases, liquids, or fluids Heat and cold Excessive noise Excessive vibration

Hazardous Atmosphere A “hazardous atmosphere” in a confined space has one or more of the following: Oxygen content below 19.5% or above 23.5% Flammable gas, mist, vapor, or dust Toxic chemicals, mist, vapors, or dust Air contaminant concentrations that would cause death, incapacitation, or permanent health problems

You must do air monitoring to determine if a hazardous atmosphere exists!!!

Permit Space Entry Entry into a permit-required confined space is not a one person job. It requires a team of individuals who work together and have the knowledge and skills necessary to complete the job safely.

Practices and Procedures Conduct hazard evaluations Post danger signs Develop a permit space program

Role of an ENTRY SUPERVISOR Determine acceptable entry conditions Authorize entry and oversee operations Terminate entry if hazardous conditions develop

Role of an ENTRY SUPERVISOR Know hazards and symptoms of exposure Verify tests, procedures, and equipment Terminate entry and cancel entry permit

Role of an ENTRY SUPERVISOR Verify rescue services are available and means to summon them is operable Remove unauthorized individuals Determine that entry operations remain consistent with entry permit

Role of an ATTENDANT One role that can be performed by an entry supervisor, or another authorized person, is the role of an attendant as long as this person is trained and equipped to perform an attendant’s duties.

Role of an ATTENDANT Know the hazards that may be faced Understand behavioral effects of exposure Maintain an accurate count of entrants Monitor activities inside and outside space Remain outside the space until relieved by another attendant

Role of an ATTENDANT Communicate with entrants as necessary Protect the permit space during entry Perform non-entry rescues Know how to summon rescue services

Role of an AUTHORIZED ENTRANT Enter confined spaces Know hazards and symptoms of exposure Understand the PPE and equipment and how to use it Communicate with attendant as necessary

Role of an AUTHORIZED ENTRANT Alert attendant to dangerous situations Exit permit space when: Evacuation is ordered by attendant Dangerous situation is recognized Prohibited condition is detected Evacuation alarm is activated

Entry Permit An entry permit is provided by the employer and authorizes entry into a permit space.

Coordinating Entry When host and contractor employees participate in entry operations, the host employer must have procedures to coordinate entry operations.