Survivor's Guide to Confined Spaces Safety

Who is at Risk and Why?

When someone is in trouble, many people automatically act and try to render aid. This includes coworkers, emergency workers (firefighters and EMTs), and citizens. OH&S Magazine shared the following examples illustrate the dangers of confined spaces that can even affect first responders. 

• In Middletown, Ohio, three firefighters nearly perished when attempting to rescue a worker who fell unconscious when inspecting a utility hole. 

• In Liberty Township, Indiana, a citizen and two firefighters were incapacitated when attempting to rescue a worker who collapsed in a 10-foot-deep pit. 

• In Tarrytown, New York, a firefighter attempted to rescue a worker who fell unconscious when working in a utility hole. Both the worker and firefighter perished from exposure to toxic gases. 

In all three cases, the individuals who attempted rescue were either incapacitated or killed because of atmospheric hazards in the confined spaces. In these cases, the proper training and communication of the potential hazards could have prevented these deaths. While it is unlikely that the average citizen will ever undergo confined space training, clear and impactful safety messages can help to ensure that everybody knows the risks surrounding confined spaces DuraLabel line of DuraLabel printers and labeling supplies can help you print custom warnings and safety messages to increase hazard awareness for workers, emergency responders, and citizens. 

Training

Proper training is required for anyone working in confined spaces. It ensures that workers are aware of potential hazards, understand safe working practices, and know how to respond in emergencies. Initial training covers the basics of confined space entry and work, understanding potential hazards, and the use of safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE). Refresher training provides regular updates on safety protocols, reviews recent incidents, and introduces new safety equipment and technologies. Emergency training involves drills on evacuation and rescue procedures, first aid and CPR training, and the use of emergency communication devices.  

Comprehensive training ensures that workers understand the risks and safety measures associated with confined spaces. Key aspects of training include: 

Training Requirements 

• Entry Procedures: Teach safe entry and exit procedures.

• Hazard Recognition: Train workers to identify and understand hazards.

• Use of PPE: Instruct on the proper use of personal protective equipment.

• Emergency Response: Prepare workers for emergency situations, including rescue procedures.

Training Methods

• Classroom Training: Use lectures, videos, and written materials.
• Hands-On Training: Provide practical exercises in simulated confined space environments.
• Refresher Courses: Regularly update training to keep skills and knowledge current. 

 Certification

• Ensure workers are certified upon completion of training.
• Keep records of training and certification for all employees.

Hazard Communications 

Hazards in confined spaces can include oxygen deficiency or enrichment, the presence of toxic gases, flammable or explosive atmospheres, and physical hazards like moving machinery or structural instability. Effective communication protocols are vital for safety and should include pre-entry briefings to discuss the task, hazards, and safety measures, continuous monitoring with regular updates during the task, and post-entry debriefings to review the task and note any issues or near misses. Workers must also familiarize themselves with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for any chemicals they might encounter, ensuring they know the proper handling, storage, and emergency measures related to these chemicals. 

Signage

Effective signage is crucial in warning and informing workers about confined space hazards. Here is how to implement proper signage: 

Warning Signs: Indicate the presence of a confined space and potential hazards. 

Entry Permits Required: Inform workers that they must have proper authorization and permits to enter. 

Danger Signs: Highlight severe hazards that can cause death or serious injury. 

Placement of Signs

• Place signs at all entry points to confined spaces.
• Ensure signs are visible from a distance and under various lighting conditions. 
• Use reflective materials for signs in low-light areas. 

Sign Content 

• Danger/WARNING/CAUTION: As appropriate based on hazard severity. 
• Hazard Description: Specify the type of hazard (e.g., toxic gases, oxygen deficiency). 
• Entry Requirements: List necessary permits, PPE, and other entry conditions. 
• Emergency Information: Provide contact details for emergencies.

Hazard Communication

Clear and effective communication about hazards is vital for safety in confined spaces. Here are key components: 

Hazard Assessment 

• Conduct a thorough hazard assessment before entry. 
• Identify and document potential hazards (e.g., atmospheric conditions, engulfment, mechanical equipment). 

Documentation 

• Maintain a confined space inventory with detailed hazard information. 
• Develop and keep updated Safety Data Sheets for any chemicals present. 

Communication Tools 

• Pre-Entry Briefings: Conduct briefings to discuss hazards, entry procedures, and emergency plans. 
• Signage and Labels: Use consistent and clear signage as mentioned above. 
• Written Programs: Develop a written confined space program outlining policies, procedures, and responsibilities.

Emergency Procedures

Every confined space entry should have a detailed emergency response plan that includes emergency exit routes, communication methods (such as radios and alarms), and the location of rescue equipment. Rescue procedures should be regularly practiced and include non-entry rescues using equipment like ropes and harnesses to extract a worker without entering the space, and entry rescues where trained personnel must enter the space using appropriate PPE and breathing apparatus if non-entry rescue is not possible. On-site first aid must be available, including basic first aid kits, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and trained first aid responders.

Workplace Safety Standards

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides specific regulations for confined space work, including 29 CFR 1910.146, which outlines requirements for permit-required confined spaces (PRCS), entry permits, atmospheric testing, and rescue plans. Workers must use appropriate PPE, such as respiratory protection, protective clothing, helmets, gloves, and safety boots. Proper ventilation is essential to ensure a safe atmosphere inside confined spaces, requiring continuous monitoring of air quality, the use of mechanical ventilation systems to provide fresh air and remove contaminants, and ensuring ventilation equipment is explosion-proof if working in flammable environments. 

Do Not Get Stuck with Ineffective Safety Measures 

Working in confined spaces requires strict adherence to safety protocols and continuous awareness of potential hazards. Through comprehensive training, effective communication, well-practiced emergency procedures, and compliance with safety standards, the risks associated with confined spaces can be significantly mitigated. Stay informed, prepared, and prioritize safety first.

Quick Reference Checklist 

1. Signage:

   •    Place warning, entry permit required, and danger signs at all confined space entries. 
   •    Ensure signs are visible and legible. 
   •    Include hazard descriptions and emergency contact information on signs. 

2. Hazard Communication:

   •    Conduct and document hazard assessments. 
   •    Maintain updated Safety Data Sheets. 
   •    Communicate hazards through pre-entry briefings, written programs, and clear signage. 

3. Training:

   •    Provide thorough training on entry procedures, hazard recognition, PPE use, and emergency response. 
   •    Utilize both classroom and hands-on training methods. 
   •    Regularly conduct refresher courses and maintain training records. 

Emergency Contacts and Resources 

• Emergency Services: Dial 911 
• Safety Officer: [Name] - [Contact Information] 
• Nearest Hospital: [Hospital Name] - [Address] - [Phone Number] 
• Poison Control: [Contact Information] 
• Company Safety Hotline: [Contact Information] 

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe. Your life and the lives of your colleagues depend on it. 

DuraLabel Solutions for Confined Spaces 

DuraLabel provides tailored solutions for confined spaces to enhance workplace safety and compliance with OSHA regulations. Our range of products includes durable, high-quality signs, labels, and printers specifically designed for confined space applications. These solutions enable organizations to clearly mark confined spaces, communicate entry procedures, and highlight potential hazards, ensuring a safe and compliant environment. 

The DuraLabel Kodiak Max Industrial Sign and Label Print System is a comprehensive in-house printing solution ideal for all confined space labeling needs. Integrating DuraLabel products into your safety program ensures clear, consistent, and compliant safety communication throughout your facility. This supports critical aspects of OSHA’s confined space requirements, such as identifying permit-required confined spaces, marking entry points, and displaying necessary safety instructions. 

Download our free OSHA Instant Action Guide to guarantee your facility meets OSHA standards for confined spaces. This invaluable resource provides a detailed site inspection checklist to ensure your facility is OSHA compliant. 

For expert assistance in developing a confined space communication system tailored to your needs, call 1-888-402-8820. Our specialists will guide you through the process to ensure your facility's confined space safety measures are robust and effective.

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Label in accordance with OSHA and ANSI standards.

Read Next: 

Confined Space Hazards 101: The Basics 

Improving Job Site Safety with an Industrial Label Printer