Confined space entry requires safety equipment
Specific Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations
apply to situations when workers must enter a confined space. A confined space is described as a space that a worker can enter, yet has limited means for entry or exit. A confined space might include manholes, sewers, pits, traps, storage bins or hoppers. Equipment for confined-space entry must be in working condition and tested before workers enter a confined space for work.
Air Monitors
Air monitors test the environment in a confined space to determine whether harmful gases or other hazards are present. Air monitoring must be done before the job begins, as a permit may or may not be required for entry. Testing and monitoring equipment needed to comply with OSHA standards to be able to test for a variety of hazards. A monitor must be properly calibrated before testing inside a confined space. The monitor must also be fully charged (most are battery operated).
The most common configuration for a multiple-sensor gas monitor is one that can read levels of oxygen, combustible gases, hydrogen sulfide and carbon monoxide. While monitoring oxygen and combustible-gas levels is required, toxic gas hazards vary with different types of confined spaces. To assume that the toxic gases present in any confined space are limited to only hydrogen sulfide and/or carbon monoxide ignores the possibility that different or additional toxic sensors must be used. Many multi-gas monitors are now available with several toxic sensor options and the flexibility of measuring up to six gases simultaneously.
PPE
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for confined-space entry. The equipment that may be used for this work, depending on the confined space, must be in good working condition and fit the worker well. Examples of this type of equipment include safety glasses or goggles, face mask, hard-hat, gloves and safety-approved work boots.
In some instances, a worker may need a respirator or simple dust mask, depending on the environment in the confined space. When using respirators, workers should have completed a respirator fit test, and respirators should be checked to make sure they're in working condition.
Fall Protection
Fall protection is not only for workers entering a confined space but also for those who will work near an opening. Many workers are injured as they lean into a confined space such as a manhole in a city street. Fall-protection harnesses must be in good condition and must fit the worker. All safety attachments must be in place so that they will prevent a falling worker from injury.
Tools
Tools are often used in a confined-space job. Electrical tools must be grounded to prevent shock. Electrical tools and equipment used in a confined space where flammable vapors are present must be approved for hazardous locations. Only nonsparking tools may be used in a confined space where flammable or explosive gases, vapors or liquids are present.
Lighting and Ventilation
Lighting equipment is needed so employees can see well enough to work safely in a dark confined space. In addition, workers need lighting to find exits in case of an emergency. Ventilation equipment may be required to provide air to a confined space or to help disperse toxic gases. This equipment should always be tested for safety before using in a confined space.
Tags: confined space, confined space, confined space, working condition, carbon monoxide, confined space where, confined-space entry
