The Confined Space Standard
Application
The Confined Spaces standard, CFR 1926 Subpart AA, (1926.1200-1213) Confined Spaces in Construction, sets forth requirements for practices and procedures to protect employees engaged in construction activities at a worksite with one or more confined spaces.
There are two permit spaces here: one in the tank and one in the deep excavation.
Below is a summary of the general requirements detailed in CFR 29 1926.1203.
- Identification and Evaluation: Employers must identify and evaluate confined spaces on construction sites to determine whether they meet the definition of a confined space as per OSHA's standards. Factors such as the presence of atmospheric hazards, potential engulfment hazards, and limited means of entry or exit are considered during the evaluation process.
- Permit-Required Confined Spaces (PRCS): Employers must determine if a confined space is a permit-required confined space (PRCS) based on the presence of specified hazards, including atmospheric hazards, engulfment hazards, and other potential dangers. If a confined space is classified as a PRCS, employers must notify employees by posting danger signs and implement a permit system that includes specific safety measures, procedures, and entry restrictions.
- Hazard Communication: Employers are required to inform employees and contractors about the existence, location, and potential hazards of confined spaces on the construction site. Employees must be provided with information on the specific hazards associated with confined spaces, including atmospheric conditions, hazardous substances, and physical hazards.
- Entry Procedures: Employers must develop and implement safe entry procedures for confined spaces. Entry procedures should include measures to control and monitor atmospheric conditions, ventilation requirements, equipment and tools necessary for safe entry, and rescue procedures.
- Training and Education: Employers must provide training to employees who work in or around confined spaces. The training should cover the nature of confined space hazards, methods for identifying and evaluating hazards, proper entry procedures, and emergency response and rescue procedures. Employees must demonstrate understanding and proficiency in confined space operations and the use of necessary equipment.
- Rescue and Emergency Services: Employers must provide for rescue and emergency services capable of responding promptly in the event of an emergency in a confined space. Employers should evaluate the need for on-site rescue capability or have arrangements with external rescue services to ensure timely response and effective rescue operations.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
11-2. If a confined space is classified as a permit-required confined space (PRCS), employers must _____.
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