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Appendix D - Training Program
Confined Spaces
Objectives/Samples of Behavior:
Explain common hazards associated with confined spaces.
Differentiate among the classifications of confined spaces.
Explain air monitoring requirements for evaluating a confined space.
A. References
ANSI Standard Z117-1.1989 "Safety Requirements for Confined Spaces"
29 CFR 1910.146 "Permit Required Confined Spaces"
NIOSH #80-16 "Criteria for a Recommended Standard.... Working in Confined Spaces"
AFOSH Standard 91-25 "Confined Spaces"
B. What is a Confined Space?
An enclosed area that has all the following characteristics:
Has adequate size and configuration for employee entry
It's primary function is something other than human occupancy
Has restricted entry and exit
C. Hazards within a Confined Space
Atmospheric Hazards
Oxygen deficient atmosphere < 19.5%
Oxygen enriched atmosphere > 23.5%
Flammable atmospheres (10%)
Lower explosive limits (LELs)
Upper explosive limits (UELs)
Combustible dusts
Toxic substances
Above the OEL
IDLH atmospheres
Order of air monitoring
Oxygen measurements always taken first! WHY?
Combustible gases - get out if >10% LEL
Toxic substances
Safety hazards
Slips / trips / falls
Mechanical / electrical
Limited entry / exit
Physiological / psychological stress
Entrapment
D. The Confined Space Program
First step: Conduct a survey and develop an inventory of those locations which qualify as confined spaces
Second step: Classifying the confined spaces - 29 CFR 1910.146 - permit vs. non-permit
E. The Permit System
OSHA's permit required confined space (PRCS)
Definition: a permit required confined space is an area which meets the definition of confined space but also presents or has the potential for hazards related to adverse atmospheric conditions (toxic > OEL, flammable - >10% of LEL, asphyxiating <19.5% O2), engulfment, hazardous configuration or any other recognized serious hazards.
Non-permit confined space (NPCS)
NPCS' are confined spaces that meet the definition of a confined space, but which after evaluation is found to have little potential for generation of hazards or has the hazards eliminated by engineering controls
What is a permit?
A written or printed document established by the employer which must include the following:
Identification of the space and the purpose of the entry
Date and duration of the permit
List of authorized entrants
Names of current attendants and entry supervisor
List of hazards in the permit space
List of hazard control measures
Acceptable entry conditions
Results of initial tests
Emergency and communication procedures
Required equipment
Special permits / requirements (i.e. hot work)
F. Team Training
Each organization develops structured & effective training program
To ensure a vigilant & well informed team
Base training on specific hazards expected
Entry (on-site) supervisor ensures all members trained - makes them aware of:
Proper procedures & controls for entry
Fact that unauthorized entry is forbidden & why
Organizational lessons approved by SEG, CEF, & BES
Who:
Entrants
Entry supervisor
Attendant
Rescue team members
Confined space tester or monitor
What:
Entrants - emergency procedures, hazard recognition, PPE, self-rescue, special worker practices / procedures
Entry supervisor - meets training requirements of entrants, plus:
Recognize effects of exposure (reasonably expected)
Training on entry supervisor duties
Attendant - training on duties of an attendant, plus:
Training on duties of entrant or rescue team member if expected to perform the functions
Rescue team members - hands-on practice in removing bodies from confined spaces plus:
Rescue duties
Use of retrieval equipment
Proper wear & use of PPE
CPR & basic 1st aid
Confined space tester or monitor, - specific equipment operation, calibration & care plus:
Certified as qualified to interpret results
Meet requirements of entrant if necessary