Entry into confined space

Entry into Confined Spaces. In 1993 OSHA adopted a confined space entry rule (93) requiring employers to evaluate the workplace to (/) determine if it contains any confined spaces, (2) mark or identify such confined spaces, and (2) develop and implement a permit program for entry into such spaces. The program must include a permit system which specifies the steps to be taken to identify, evaluate, control, and monitor possible electrical, mechanical, and chemical ha2ards select and use equipment institute stand-by attendance and estabflsh communications. The reference standard (93) should be studied for details. 

The special precautions appropriate for entry into confined spaces are summarized in Chapter 13. In fires, evacuation of burning buildings, prohibition on re-entry and the use of self-contained breathing apparatus by fire-fighters are key precautions. 

If in doubt, provide air-fed respirators and follow the requirements for entry into confined spaces (Chapter 13). 

Entry into confined spaces (e.g. vat, vessel, flue, sewer, boiler or similar)... 

A permit-to-work system is essential to control entry into confined spaces, e.g. tanks, reactors or underground chambers. Requirements... 

Entry into confined spaces Effluent storage on farms... 

Guidance Note GS5 Entry into confined spaces (HMSO) Hot Work on Tanks and Dmms 1ND(G)35(L) M20 (HSE)... 

Is training required on use of respirators, entry into confined spaces, fire prevention and use of extinguishers ... 

Entry into confined spaces where there is likely to be a danger from toxic or flammable gases, or oxygen deficiency or enrichment (Table 11.12). Such work requires well rehearsed procedures regulated by a permit. Figure 11.3 identifies the procedures for entry into confined spaces and Table 11.13 lists associated safety requirements with a specimen permit (Figure 11.4). 

Permit-to-work systems See under Maintenance Entry into confined spaces (e.g. vat, vessel, flue, sewer, boiler or similar) Use of non-flameproof electrical equipment where flammable liquids/ vapours/dusts may arise... 

Reduced chemical reactivity (inert material) Personnel entry into confined space with reduced oxygen level... 

Injuries and fatalities from asphyxiation are often associated with personnel entry into inerted equipment or enclosures. Guidance on safe procedures for confined space access are provided by OSHA (OSHA, 29 CFR 1910.146, Confined Space Entry Standard, 2000), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI, Z117.1, Safety Requirements for Confined Spaces, 2003), Hodson (Hodson, Safe Entry into Confined Spaces, Handbook of Chemical Health and Safety, American Chemical Society, 2001), and BP (BP, Hazards of Nitrogen and Catalyst Handling, 2003). OSHA has established 19.5 vol % as the minimum safe oxygen concentration for confined space entry without supplemental oxygen supply (see Table 23-18). Note that OSHA imposes a safe upper limit on 02 concentration of 23.5 vol % to protect against the enhanced flammability hazards associated with 02-enriched atmospheres. 

Keller, C. L., "Future Requirements for Unrestricted Entry into Confined Spaces , Plant/Operations Prog. 6(3), 1987, p. 142. 

Wareing, T. H., "Entry into Confined Spaces, in W. Handley (ed.) Industrial Safety Handbook, McGraw-Hill, London, 1969, p. 61. 

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