Work in confined spaces
Confined spaces are not always recognized, nor are the related hazards easily identified and addressed. Confined spaces can be particularly dangerous if proper precautions are not followed. Employers can help safeguard their workers by adequately preparing and training workers on the issues and hazards inherent with confined space operations. The following actions should be addressed by management:
- Know the OSHA requirements for work in confined spaces.
- Conduct a job hazard assessment that identifies the types of confined spaces for each project and determines if the confined spaces are "permit-required." Permit-required confined spaces can include:
- Excavations and trenches
- Manholes and condenser pits
- Pipe assemblies
- Ventilation ducts
- Tanks and containment cavities
- Electrical transformers
- Sumps and heat sinks
- Underground vaults
- Identify the hazards (inherent and induced) associated with each confined space. Such hazards include:
- Confined spaces within a confined space— one space entering another space
- Communication and lighting problems
- Entry and exit
- Thermal effects
- Oxygen-deficient atmospheres
- Explosive or toxic gases, vapors or fumes
- Biological hazards
- Falling materials
- Noise
- Identify required personal protection equipment (PPE) and provide training in their use.
- Conduct frequent refresher training on safety procedures.
- Train and appoint entrants, attendants and rescue personnel.
- Establish general and specific emergency procedures and plans for each project activity.
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The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("The Hanover") specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.
LC NOV 2018 LC 12-294
171-0938 (2/14)