Confined spaces, hazards

The contractors SSAHPs at Sites B, F, and K had general confined space provisions but lacked site-specific confined space procedures. For example, SSAHPs for the Site K contractor and subcontractor had written confined space entry programs, but the programs did not establish site-specific rescue procedures or identify the confined space hazards present on the site. The job hazard analyses for both programs failed to address site maintenance tasks that could involve confined space entry and hot work hazards. The programs also failed to identify the specific person or position responsible for supervising confined space entry procedures and the location of permit-required confined spaces on site. Interviews with both contractors indicated confusion about rescue procedures. 

Similarly, the Site B contractor s SSAHP provided corporate policy and procedures for permit-required confined space entry but lacked the site-specific detail necessary to describe the application of the corporate policy to procedures at the site. For example, the SSAHP did not identify specific components of the thermal treatment unit that presented confined space hazards, nor did it describe the specific circumstances or procedures that would require employee entry into these areas. In addition, the plan stated that the contractor would maintain an onsite employee confined space rescue team, but did not identify the members of this team. The SSAHP for Site F also contained a generic confined space entry program but did not identify the specific location of confined space hazards present at the site. 

The chemical release into a confined space is life threatening. High-pressure liquid, falling objects, and slippery surfaces in a confined space are all potential hazards. The limited space, inadequate ventilation and light, and excessive noise are also physical hazards that increase the confined space hazards. The chemical waste and useful chemicals are also life threatening. 

Instruct their employees about confined-space hazards, and... 

Comply with other OSHA construction standards that address confined-space hazards. 

Respiratory protection as a secondary choice of protection from confined space hazards. 

Construction workers who enter confined spaces can be exposed to multiple hazards, any of which may cause bodily injury, illness, or death. Supervisors and workers required to enter confined spaces must (1) understand the nature of confined space hazards, (2) be able to recognize signs or S3anptoms of exposure, and (3) understand the consequences of exposure to hazards. Hazard assessments and control are a critical part of confined space entry requirements. 

Confined space hazards are categorized as physical or atmospheric. 

Had not trained the employees in confined space hazards and precautions, and the protective and emergency equipment required for work in confined spaces. 

Employers should (1) evaluate confined space conditions before entry is authorized, and (2) as necessary to ensure they are acceptable during work. Many construction site situations may pose a confined space hazard for which you must monitor the air. When doing so, follow these guidelines ... 

General industry and the construction industry have a lot in common when it comes to confined space hazards the potential for fire, explosion, chemical exposure and oxygen enrichment or deficiency. In spite of the commonalities, there are significant differences between the two, says Edward J. Willwerth, an NFPA-certified marine chemist who has taught confined space safety courses for the U.S. military, shipyards, petroleum terminals, chemical manufacturers and industrial facilities. 

While confined space hazards are varied and numerous, all confined spaces have three things in common They are large enough to enter They are not easy to enter or exit They are not designed for continuous human occupancy... 

Figure 16-3. Confined space hazard. Confined space hazards are often... 

E) Review of the expected hazards including fire and explosions hazards, confined space hazards, electrical hazards, powered equipment hazards, motor vehicle hazards, and walking-working surface hazards. 

Excavation work and confined spaces - hazards and control... 

Let us look at some of the dangers your employees may face in a permit-required confined space. Hazards in permit spaces can be separated into two categories physical hazards and atmospheric hazards. 

Guidelines for awareness, equipment and rescue Be proactive in minimizing confined space hazards. 

Are common to other activities but may also be present in the confined space hazards. According NR 33 (2006), such risks are ... 

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