Confined Spaces in Sewer Systems
Confined space hazards in sewer systems have led to worker deaths. Employers conducting work in sewer systems will likely have workers who will encounter hazards in confined spaces.
Types of sewer systems include sanitary (domestic sewage), storm (runoff), and combined (domestic sewage and runoff). Sewer systems are extensive and include many different components that are considered confined spaces, including pipelines, manholes, wet wells, dry well vaults, and lift/pump stations.
Sewer systems can present a host of common confined space hazards, including:
- atmospheric hazards (low oxygen, toxic or flammable gases)
- chemicals in piping and from roadway runoff (may harm lungs, skin, or eyes)
- engulfment and drowning
- electrocution (e.g., using electrical equipment in wet working conditions)
- slips, trips, and falls
- falling objects
- high noise levels, low visibility, limits to communication, and long distances to exits
Construction work can create confined spaces and permit spaces, even if there are none at the start of a project. Changes to the entry/exit, the ease of exit, and air flow could produce a confined space or cause one to become permit space.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-13. What is a confined space hazard that may exist in a sewer system?
You forgot to answer the question!