713 Confined Space Program

Vibration

Whole body vibration may affect multiple body parts and organs depending upon the vibration characteristics. Segmental vibration, unlike whole body vibration, appears to be more localized in creating injury to the fingers and hands of workers using tools, such as pneumatic hammers, rotary grinders or other hand tools which cause vibration.

Impact Hazards

Workers may be exposed to impact hazards from:

• sparks
• metal particles
• grinding debris
• paint debris

Injuries may include:

• particles becoming imbedded in the skin
• eye damage
• skin burns
• skin trauma

Requirements and Example Solutions:

• Use PPE properly.
• Use powered equipment such as portable grinders with guards and according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

It's important to understand that moving equipment or parts and energized or pressurized systems can be extremely dangerous in confined spaces. Examples include shafts, couplings, gears, belts, conveyors, mixers, rotors, and compressing devices. If you get caught in moving equipment, you will most likely suffer a fatal injury. The equipment will not stop rotating or moving.

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