Confined Space Entry
A confined space entry is considered to have occurred when any part of a person's body crosses the plane of an opening into the space.
Each employer should ask these two questions at the onset of each project:
- Is confined space entry always necessary for this task?
- Is it possible to complete the task from the outside?
If possible, avoid entering a confined space. Every consideration should be given to completing the task from the outside.
Alternative Entry Procedures
Under certain conditions, you may use alternate procedures for worker entry into a permit space. For example, if you can demonstrate with monitoring and inspection data that the only hazard is an actual or potential hazardous atmosphere that can be made safe for entry using continuous forced air ventilation, you may be exempted from some entry requirements, such as permits and attendants.
However, even in these circumstances, you must test the internal atmosphere of the space for oxygen content, flammable gases and vapors, and the potential for toxic air contaminants before any employee enters it. You must also provide continuous ventilation and verify that the required measurements are performed before entry.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-6. A confined space entry is considered to have occurred when ________ crosses the plane of an opening into the space.
You forgot to answer the question!