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816 Confined Space Safety in Construction
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Physical Hazards

Physical hazards come in many different forms and can cause death or serious physical harm.

electrical cord tangled and loose in walking area
Physical hazards come in many different forms.

Examples include:

  • Access problems: In an emergency, entrants may not be able to exit quickly.
  • Absorbed chemicals: Chemicals can be absorbed through the skin or other tissues or membranes such as the eyes.
  • Corrosive chemicals: Corrosive chemicals can cause severe eye or skin damage if exposed workers are not wearing protective clothing or eyewear.
  • Falling objects: Objects can fall into the space because topside openings are unguarded or improperly guarded.
  • Illumination problems: Poor lighting makes it difficult for workers to enter, work in, and exit a permit space.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-7. What is a physical hazard you may find in a confined space?