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17: Confined Spaces

  • Page ID
    18217
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    “The danger which is least expected soonest comes to us.” – Voltaire

    Overview

    Some of the most hazardous environments workers may encounter are the atmospheres of confined spaces. Workers caught in confined spaces often never even knew what hit them. Oxygen deficient and toxic atmospheres can quickly overcome workers. It is important to recognize the physical characteristics of a confined space as well as recognizing when work impacting air quality in poorly ventilated spaces produces confined space conditions. This chapter will identify the many examples of confined spaces and the hazards that must be managed when working in or near them.

    Chapter Objective:

    1. Determine how to Identify Confined Spaces.
    2. Identify the Hazards Associated with Confined Spaces.
    3. Understand the Responsibilities of the Entrant, Attendant and Entry Supervisor.
    4. Determine the Proper Procedures for Entering and Working in a Confined Space.

    Learning Outcome:

    1. Understand the conditions of a permit required confined space.
    2. Identify the control measures on a confined space permit.

    Standards: 1926 Subpart AA Confined Spaces in Construction, 1910.145 Permit Required Confined Spaces

    Key Terms:

    Attendant, engulfment, entrapment, entrant, hot work permit

    Mini-Lecture: Confined Spaces

    Topic Required Time: 1 hrs; Independent Study and reflection 3/4 hour.

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    This page titled 17: Confined Spaces is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Kimberly Mosley (ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative (OERI)) .

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