For many people, the term “confined spaces” instills a feeling of claustrophobia – while for others, it’s just another day on the job. On a jobsite, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a confined space as an enclosed area that may not necessarily be designed for people, but is large enough for workers to enter and perform certain jobs. Examples of confined spaces include: manholes, storm drains, sewer systems, crawl spaces, heating/air conditioning ducts, storage tanks and elevator pits.
A confined space can also create conditions that could make accidents more likely to occur due to inherent hazards such as a toxic atmosphere, explosions, electrocution, excessive heat and asphyxiation. If a hazardous atmosphere is present, it becomes what’s called a “permit required confined space” and – as the term states – you’ll need a permit to work in the space.
As an employer, there are measures you can take to protect your workers when a jobsite includes a confined space. Here are the top ten:
- Evaluate the Space
Check out what hazards are present and how severe of a threat they pose to your employees. - Establish Safe Access and Escape
An example would be a fixed ladder with a ready means of escape, like an emergency winch rescue device using a safety harness. - Create a Program
If the space is hazardous, employers must have a written permit program that has been reviewed by workers and made available to their representatives. - Test and Monitor the Work Area
Check for high levels of toxic gases – like carbon monoxide or other combustible hazards – with a four-way gas detection monitoring system. - Prevent Unauthorized Entry
If hazardous conditions are detected, your employees must leave the area immediately. Provide barriers, investigate the cause and modify your program as needed. - Define Job Duties and Schedule
Coordinate entry operations if more than one employer is working in the area and be sure to have at least one attendant stationed outside the confined permit space. - Evaluate Workers
Assess if your workers are in suitable physical condition and are appropriately trained to work safely in the confined space. Also, determine if they have a health condition that may be aggravated by the conditions. If so, they should not be assigned to the space. - Provide Property Safety Tools/Equipment
Personal protective equipment, breathing apparatuses, monitor and testing equipment, lighting, barriers and shields must all be made available to your workers as determined necessary. - Supply Space Ventilation
Furnishing space ventilation – like a fan-assisted system – will help maintain airflow and keep temperatures at safe levels. - Coordinate Rescue Procedures
When working in a confined space, an emergency rescue team must be kept on standby at all times. Establish a plan to summon the team and prevent unauthorized personnel from attempting a rescue.
Amerisure can work with you and your company to ensure you have an effective confined space program in place to keep your workers safe. Contact your agency or local Amerisure Loss Control Consultant at (800) 257-1900 or [email protected].
