Preventing accidents in confined spaces can easily be accomplished provided companies and workers pay attention to the procedures, that are required to be implemented prior to, during and at the end of a confined space entry. The first and arguably the most important step is for the company to identify (inventory), characterize, and label all their confined spaces.

Identifying and characterizing confined spaces requires some understanding of what a confined space is and what makes it hazardous to go inside.

"Confined space" means a space that: (1) Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work; and (2) Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit (for example, tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits are spaces that may have limited means of entry.); and (3) Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.

Once it is understood what spaces qualify as confined spaces these should be evaluated (characterized) as to the hazards that are or could be present such as atmospheric conditions, engulfment hazards, entrapment hazards and so forth. Only trained personnel may enter confined spaces, and for obvious reasons...it can be dangerous.

EMPLOYEE TRAINING: