Confined space hazards can be divided into four broad and far reaching categories. These categories are Configuration, Biological, Physical and Atmospheric. It is important to understand each of these groupings as they are often used in the classification of specific confined spaces hazards at a worksite.

What are the hazards in a confined space?

7 key hazards within an enclosed space

• #1 Toxic Atmosphere. RelatedNews.
• #2 Oxygen Deficiency. Oxygen can be lacking a confined space for the following reasons:
• #3 Oxygen Enrichment.
• #4 Flammable or Explosive Atmospheres.
• #5 Flowing Liquid or Free Flowing Solids.
• #6 Excessive Heat.
• #7 Inadequate Lighting.
• Mitigating hazards.

What gases are tested in confined space?

Common Confined Space Gas Levels

• Oxygen. OSHA dictates that the minimum “safe level” of oxygen in a confined space is 19.5%, while the maximum “safe level” of oxygen in a confined space is 23.5%.
• Combustible Gases.
• Carbon Monoxide and Hydrogen Sulfide.

What is the safe LEL level?

Atmospheres with a concentration of flammable vapors at or above 10 percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL) are considered hazardous when located in confined spaces. However, atmospheres with flammable vapors below 10 percent of the LEL are not necessarily safe. Such atmospheres are too lean to burn.

What are the different types of confined space?

Eg: meter pits, valve chambers, booster-pumping stations, PRV chambers.No breathing apparatus required for low risk Medium Risk Confined Space A medium risk confined space exists where there are access issues; a realistic expectation of encountering a specific risk; possible introduction of specified risks during the work activity.

When is a confined space a high risk?

A high risk confined space exists when there is a specified hazard that cannot be controlled or eliminated. Non standard entries involving complex operations which introduce additional risks and require specific controls and rescue arrangements.

How are engineering controls used in confined space?

Engineering controls are designed to remove the hazard while administrative controls and personal protective equipment try to minimize the contact with the hazard. However, often because of the nature of the confined space and depending on the hazard, special precautions not normally required in a regular worksite may also need to be taken.

How many people have died in confined spaces?

Meanwhile, in 2010, there were 26 fatalities due to inhalation and 6 fatalities due to oxygen deficiency occurred in confined spaces. If you can recognize work hazards related with confined space early, then you will be able to take necessary control measures to reduce the hazard level.