Confined Spaces Information Guide

Many workplaces contain spaces that are considered "confined" because their configurations hinder the activities of any employees who must enter, work in, and exit them.

For example, employees who work in process vessels generally must squeeze in and out through narrow openings and perform their tasks while cramped or contorted. OSHA uses the term "confined space" to describe such spaces. In addition, there are many instances where employees who work in confined spaces face increased risk of exposure to serious hazards. In some cases, confinement itself poses entrapment hazards. In other cases, confined space work keeps employees closer to hazards, such as asphyxiating atmospheres or the moving parts of machinery.

OSHA uses the term "permit-required confined space" (permit space) to describe those spaces that both meet the definition of "confined space" and pose health or safety hazards. The following are links to resources that provide safety and health information relevant to confined spaces in the workplace.

What OSHA standards apply?

• Follow this link to the OSHA Standards page for Confined Space

• Follow this link for more information of OSHA-approved State Plans

Hazards and Possible Solutions

Confined spaces may be encountered in virtually any occupation; therefore, their recognition is the first step in preventing fatalities. Since deaths in confined spaces often occur because the atmosphere is oxygen deficient or toxic, confined spaces should be tested prior to entry and continually monitored. The following references aid in recognizing and evaluating hazards and possible solutions related to confined spaces in the workplace.

• Confined Space Hazards. OSHA (2003 January), 7 pages. This document discusses the hazards of confined spaces.

• Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Working in Confined Spaces. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) (1979, December), 1 page. Table of contents to this document. The document is available as PDF files.

• Preventing Occupational Fatalities in Confined Spaces. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Alert (1986, January), 4 pages.

• Complete Index to Confined Space hazards and Solutions
  

Contact Argus-HAZCO for more information on Confined Space related issues.

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