Definitions confined space

If the changes alter the character of the space or if new or more serious hazards are introduced, those changes require reevaluation of whether the space is fit for continuous employee occupancy. If the space is not fit for continuous employee occupancy and the other criteria of the confined space definition are met, the space should be reclassified as a confined space. 

Definition of Dust E losion A dust explosion is the rapid combustion of a dust cloud. In a confined or nearly confined space, the explosion is characterized by relatively rapid development of pressure with a flame propagation and the evolution of large quantities of heat and reaction products. The required oxygen for this combustion is mostly supphed oy the combustion air. The condition necessaiy for a dust explosion is a simultaneous presence of a dust cloud of proper concentration in air that will support combustion and a suitable ignition source. 

Confined space, See also Permit-to-Work system definition, 12 entry, 135, 417, 420 hazards, 151, 417 legislation, 417 precautions, 418, 419... 

The second definition is a subset of the first. A permit-required confined space is a confined space with one or more of the following characteristics contains or may contain a hazardous atmosphere, contains a material with the potential for engulfment of an entrant (such as sawdust, sand, grain, or earth), has an internal configuration or shape such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated, or contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard. 

The term explosion does not have a precise definition. In general, it refers to a group of phenomena in which there is a sudden expansion or bursting effect. One definition focuses on a rapid increase of pressure. Another includes an excessively high pressure in a confined space followed by its sudden release due to rupture of the container. In some explosions there are visible flames and a flash of light. Other explosions involve material flying in many directions. Explosions produce a noticeable sound described as a crack or boom. The sound depends on the location of an observer relative to the source and on atmospheric and other conditions. 

Confined spaces include underground vaults, tanks, storage bins, manholes, pits, silos, process vessels and pipelines. Any trench deeper than four feet meets the definition of a confined space. 

This example clearly illustrates the reasoning and the logic behind OSHA s ensuring that the definition of confined "entry" (discussed in detail later) includes clear language defining what constitutes "entry"— that is, when any part of the entrant s body breaks the plane of an opening into the space, an entry has been made and is subject to the confined space entry regulations. 

The next step is to survey the plant site, the facility, the factory, or other type worksite to determine if any spaces or structures fall under OSHA s definition of a confined space. When performing such a survey, you must record on paper the name and location of each space or structure identified for evaluation later. You should also have a list of all worksite-confined spaces. This list should be distributed to all employees, placed in plain view on employee bulletin boards, and inserted into your site s written confined space program. One thing is certain— when OSHA audits your facility, they will want to see your list of confined spaces. 

During the evaluation survey process, if confined spaces are identified, then the determination must be made whether or not they are "permit-required confined spaces" or "non-permit confined spaces." To do this, you must be familiar with (TSHA s definitions for both. Recall from the definitions list that... 

A vessel large enough for entry will almost certainly come under OSHA s definition of a "confined space." Regulations and permits for such work are covered in Sections 4.5.1 and 7.1.4. 

If the space does meet the definition of confined space, then the employer needs to further evaluate the space to determine whether it meets the definition of permit-required confined space. ... 

If the person is reaching into a space that is too small to bodily enter, then the space does not meet the definition of confined space, so the standard on permit spaces does not apply. But, an employer still must provide appropriate protections for whatever hazards are in the space. 

In this situation, OSHA s guidance has said the standard does not apply. The space does not meet the definition of confined space because the person can t bodily enter. However, the space can still have atmospheric, electrical, or other hazards that need to be addressed. 

Metal container curing ovens meet the definition of a PRCS. Therefore, employee entry into such spaces must be conducted in compliance with the PRCS standard. An employer who eliminates the hazards from a permit space, as provided by paragraph (c)(7) of the standard, can reclassify that space as a non-permit confined space. That reclassification, which would remain In effect as long as the hazards remain eliminated, would allow employers to have employees enter the curing ovens without implementing a permit space program. 

Question 1 Please provide an interpretation of potential as it is used in 29 CFR 1910.146(c)(7)(i) as it relates to hazardous atmospheres in the definitions for Non-permit confined space and Permit-required confined space in 1910.146(b). Specifically, does a background or ambient reading of flammable gas, below the specified 10 percent LFL, constitute potential even when there is no source or when all sources have been isolated ... 

In Brazil the most recurrent definition Confined Space is the one that appears in NR 33—Security and Health at Work in Confined (2006) Spaces with its latest update by MTE Ordinance No. 1409, August 29, 2012 Confined Space is any area or environment not designed for human occupancy continues, having limited means of entry and exit, whose existing ventilation is insufficient to remove contaminants or where there might be a deficiency or oxygen enrichment. 

Confined spaces and hazardous energy are two important safety concerns for water utilities. OSHA has regulations that address these hazards, which are summarized in this chapter. Included are definitions, descriptions of the hazards, and the procedures for working in such conditions, including lockout/tagout procedures. Utilities should refer to current applicable regulations to determine if a permit is required for working in confined spaces. 

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