OSHA’s Confined Space Standard
OSHA’s Confined Space Standard (29 CFR 1910.146) outlines the specific requirements, practices, and procedures designed to protect employees in general industry from the hazards associated with entering and working in permit-required confined spaces.
Employer Responsibilities
- Workplace Evaluation:
Employers must evaluate their workplaces to determine if any spaces qualify as permit-required confined spaces. - Employee Notification:
If such spaces exist, employers must inform all exposed employees of their existence, location, and associated hazards.
This can be achieved by:- Posting warning signs such as:
“DANGER – PERMIT-REQUIRED CONFINED SPACE – AUTHORIZED ENTRANTS ONLY” - Or by using an equally effective communication method.
- Posting warning signs such as:
Restricting Unauthorized Entry
If employees are not required to enter confined spaces, the employer must take steps to prevent unauthorized access by:
- Blocking or securely sealing entry points, or
- Implementing administrative controls to ensure employees do not enter the area.
Permit Space Program
If employees must enter permit-required confined spaces, the employer is responsible for:
- Developing a written permit space program that meets OSHA’s requirements.
- Making this program readily available to all affected employees and their representatives.