Confined Space in Crawl Spaces and Attics
Crawl spaces and attics can be both confined spaces and permit spaces under the new standard.
Crawl spaces can present many confined space hazards.
Changes to the entry/exit, the ease of exit, and air flow could create a confined space or cause the space to become permit space.
Crawl Spaces
Crawl spaces can present many confined space hazards, including:
- tight or narrow spaces
- structural collapse
- asbestos insulation
- atmospheric hazards (e.g., flammable vapors, low oxygen levels)
- electrocution (e.g., using electrical equipment in wet conditions, unprotected energized wires)
- standing water
- poor lighting
Attics
Working in an attic and applying a large amount of spray foam (or another chemical) in a short period of time can expose a worker to low oxygen levels or a hazardous atmosphere.
Working can result in heat stress and hazardous atmospheres.
Working in attics can also present confined space hazards, such as:
- atmospheric hazards (e.g., poor ventilation)
- heat stress
- mechanical hazards (e.g., attic ventilators, whole house fans)
- electrical hazards (e.g., damaged or frayed wires, open electrical boxes)
- slip, trip and fall hazards
- asbestos insulation
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-12. What is a confined space hazard that may exist in an attic?
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