Identifying Confined Spaces
The first step in confined space program development is to identify confined spaces.
Identifying Confined Spaces
Next, evaluate each confined space to determine if it is a permit space. Keep in mind, permit space has one or more of the characteristics listed below.
- Contains, or could contain, an atmospheric hazard.
- Contains material that could trap or bury an entrant.
- Is shaped such that an entrant could become trapped or asphyxiated.
- Contains any other safety or health hazard that could harm an entrant.
Use the Confined Space Decision Tree in the previous module to help identify your confined spaces. You can also use the steps in the link below to identify confined spaces in your workplace.
- Conduct a physical assessment of the workplace to identify areas or spaces that may meet the definition of a confined space.
- Determine if the identified spaces meet the criteria of a confined space, including limited means of entry or exit, not designed for continuous human occupancy, and potential hazards.
- Evaluate the potential hazards associated with each identified confined space, including atmospheric hazards, physical hazards, and other hazards such as heat stress or noise.
- Classify each confined space based on the level of hazard, which may include permit-required confined spaces or non-permit confined spaces.
- Document the results of the assessment, including the location and classification of each confined space and the associated hazards.
- Develop a confined space program that includes procedures for safe entry, ventilation, communication, emergency response, and rescue.
- Train workers on the hazards and safety procedures associated with each confined space, and ensuring that they have access to appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Regularly review and update the confined space program and assessment to ensure that it remains effective and relevant to the workplace.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-3. The first step in confined space program development is to _____.
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