Confined Space Entry for General Industry

Terms (65)

1. 01

   What is a confined space according to OSHA?

   A space that is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work; has limited or restricted means for entry or exit; and is not designed for continuous employee occupancy. (29 CFR 1910.146(b))

2. 02

   What makes a confined space permit-required?

   It has one or more of the following: contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere, contains a material with the potential for engulfment, has an internal configuration that could trap or asphyxiate, or contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard. (29 CFR 1910.146(b))

3. 03

   Under 29 CFR 1910.146, what is required for atmospheric testing in confined spaces?

   The atmosphere must be tested for oxygen content, flammable gases and vapors, and potential toxic contaminants before entry and as necessary during entry. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(5))

4. 04

   How often must confined space entry permits be reviewed?

   The entry supervisor must review the permit during the entry or more frequently if conditions change, and cancel it when the entry operation is completed or a condition not allowed arises. (29 CFR 1910.146(e))

5. 05

   What are the duties of an attendant in a permit-required confined space?

   The attendant must monitor the authorized entrants, remain outside the space, communicate with entrants, order evacuation if necessary, and summon rescue services. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(5) and (h))

6. 06

   When must a confined space be reclassified as non-permit?

   If the employer can eliminate all hazards within the space through engineering controls and verifies that conditions are safe for entry, it may be reclassified, but monitoring must continue. (29 CFR 1910.146(c)(5))

7. 07

   What information must be on a confined space entry permit?

   The permit must include the location of the space, purpose of entry, date and duration, authorized entrants, attendants, entry supervisor, hazards, measures for safe entry, acceptable entry conditions, results of initial tests, and rescue/emergency services. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(3))

8. 08

   A worker detects a hazardous atmosphere in a confined space. What should they do?

   The worker must immediately exit the space and inform the attendant, who will initiate evacuation procedures. (29 CFR 1910.146(h)(1))

9. 09

   Before entering a permit-required confined space, what must the employer do?

   The employer must identify and evaluate hazards, develop and implement procedures, provide necessary equipment, evaluate rescue needs, and ensure the space is tested. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

10. 10

    How must rescue services be provided for confined space entries?

    Employers must ensure that either an in-house team or outside service is available to perform rescues promptly, and entrants must practice simulated rescues annually if internal. (29 CFR 1910.146(k))

11. 11

    What training is required for authorized entrants in confined spaces?

    Authorized entrants must be trained to recognize hazards, use equipment, communicate with attendants, alert of hazards, and exit the space quickly if needed. (29 CFR 1910.146(g))

12. 12

    Under 29 CFR 1910.146, who can serve as an entry supervisor?

    A qualified person who has been trained and designated by the employer to authorize entry and oversee the operation. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

13. 13

    What is the role of ventilation in confined spaces?

    Ventilation must be used to control atmospheric hazards when possible, and the space must be monitored to ensure it maintains safe air quality. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(4))

14. 14

    If a confined space has potential engulfment hazards, what must be done?

    The employer must implement measures to prevent engulfment, such as isolating the space or using barriers, before entry is permitted. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(2))

15. 15

    How often must confined space procedures be reviewed by the employer?

    Procedures must be reviewed as necessary to ensure they protect employees, particularly after an incident or if changes occur. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(14))

16. 16

    A confined space attendant notices unauthorized entry. What action is required?

    The attendant must immediately order the evacuation of the space and notify the entry supervisor. (29 CFR 1910.146(i))

17. 17

    What equipment is required for confined space entry?

    Testing and monitoring equipment, ventilation equipment, communication equipment, personal protective equipment, lighting, barriers, and rescue equipment as needed. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(5))

18. 18

    Under 29 CFR 1910.146, when can entry into a confined space proceed?

    Only after the entry permit has been issued, the space has been tested, and all required measures are in place. (29 CFR 1910.146(e))

19. 19

    What steps must be taken if a hazard arises during confined space entry?

    Authorized entrants must exit the space immediately, and the attendant must terminate the entry permit. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

20. 20

    How must employers inform employees about confined spaces?

    Employers must inform exposed employees of the location and dangers of permit spaces and the company's procedures for entering them. (29 CFR 1910.146(c))

21. 21

    What is an isolation procedure for confined spaces?

    Isolation means the process of locking out/tagging out energy sources and blanking or blinding pipes to prevent hazards like engulfment or release of energy. (29 CFR 1910.146(b) and cross-referenced with 1910.147)

22. 22

    Before a rescue from a confined space, what must be ensured?

    The rescue team must be trained, equipped, and the space must be evaluated for hazards to ensure safe rescue operations. (29 CFR 1910.146(k))

23. 23

    What warning signs are required for confined spaces?

    Signs must be posted to warn of the permit-required confined space and prohibit unauthorized entry. (29 CFR 1910.146(c)(2))

24. 24

    In a scenario where multiple entrants are in a confined space, what must the attendant do?

    The attendant must maintain communication with all entrants and monitor the space to ensure no hazards develop. (29 CFR 1910.146(i))

25. 25

    What certification is needed for confined space rescuers?

    Rescue services must be trained in permit space rescue, including the use of personal protective equipment and rescue equipment. (29 CFR 1910.146(k))

26. 26

    How must atmospheric hazards be controlled in confined spaces?

    By continuous forced air ventilation or other means to maintain safe levels, with monitoring to confirm. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(4))

27. 27

    What is the first step when identifying a permit space?

    The employer must inform employees of the existence, location, and dangers, and prevent unauthorized entry. (29 CFR 1910.146(c))

28. 28

    Under 29 CFR 1910.146, what records must be kept for confined space entries?

    Entry permits must be retained for at least one year to review the program effectiveness. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(14))

29. 29

    If an entrant experiences signs of exposure in a confined space, what should happen?

    The entrant must alert the attendant and exit the space immediately to prevent further exposure. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

30. 30

    What training must attendants receive for confined spaces?

    Training on their responsibilities, recognition of hazards, and procedures for summoning rescue. (29 CFR 1910.146(g))

31. 31

    What is required when a confined space has mechanical hazards?

    Hazards must be eliminated through lockout/tagout procedures before entry. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(2) and 1910.147)

32. 32

    How often should confined space entry equipment be inspected?

    Equipment must be inspected before each use and after any repairs or incidents. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(6))

33. 33

    In a rescue scenario for a confined space, what priority is given?

    Ensuring the safety of rescuers first by evaluating and controlling hazards before entry. (29 CFR 1910.146(k))

34. 34

    What must be done to prevent unauthorized entry into a confined space?

    Use barriers, locks, or attendants to restrict access and post warning signs. (29 CFR 1910.146(c))

35. 35

    Under 29 CFR 1910.146, who authorizes confined space entry?

    The entry supervisor must authorize entry by signing the permit after verifying all conditions. (29 CFR 1910.146(e))

36. 36

    What procedure must follow if a confined space entry is canceled?

    The entry supervisor must cancel the permit and ensure the space is secured. (29 CFR 1910.146(e))

37. 37

    A supervisor notices changing conditions in a confined space. What action is needed?

    The supervisor must terminate the entry and reassess hazards before allowing re-entry. (29 CFR 1910.146(e))

38. 38

    What communication methods are required for confined space entrants?

    Entrants and attendants must have a reliable system, such as voice, signals, or radios, to maintain contact. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

39. 39

    How must employers coordinate with contractors for confined spaces?

    Employers must inform contractors of hazards and entry procedures, and obtain information on contractor procedures. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

40. 40

    What is the minimum number of attendants for a confined space entry?

    At least one attendant must be assigned for the duration of the entry. (29 CFR 1910.146(i))

41. 41

    When must entrants exit a permit-required confined space?

    Immediately upon order from the attendant, detection of a hazard, or a warning system activation. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

42. 42

    What documentation is needed for confined space training?

    Certificates or records must certify that training has been provided and employees understand the material. (29 CFR 1910.146(g))

43. 43

    In a multi-employer worksite, what confined space responsibilities apply?

    The controlling employer must coordinate with others to ensure safe entry procedures. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

44. 44

    What testing sequence is required for confined space atmospheres?

    Test for oxygen first, then flammable gases and vapors, and then potential toxic contaminants. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(5))

45. 45

    Before using alternate entry procedures, what must be verified?

    That all hazards have been eliminated and the space is safe without a permit. (29 CFR 1910.146(c))

46. 46

    What personal protective equipment is often needed in confined spaces?

    Respiratory protection, harnesses, and other gear based on identified hazards. (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(5))

47. 47

    How should employers handle unknown confined space hazards?

    Treat the space as permit-required and perform thorough testing and evaluation. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

48. 48

    What is required if a confined space has poor visibility?

    Provide adequate lighting or personal lights to ensure safe working conditions. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

49. 49

    Under 29 CFR 1910.146, what annual requirement exists for rescue teams?

    Rescue teams must practice simulated rescues at least once every 12 months. (29 CFR 1910.146(k))

50. 50

    If an entrant is injured in a confined space, what must follow?

    Evacuate all entrants and initiate rescue procedures immediately. (29 CFR 1910.146(k))

51. 51

    What isolation methods are used for energy sources in confined spaces?

    Lockout/tagout as per 29 CFR 1910.147 to prevent accidental startup. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

52. 52

    What must be included in confined space emergency plans?

    Procedures for summoning rescue, providing necessary equipment, and practicing rescues. (29 CFR 1910.146(k))

53. 53

    How often must confined space attendants be relieved?

    Attendants must not be assigned other duties that could interfere, but relief is not specified; they must remain dedicated. (29 CFR 1910.146(i))

54. 54

    In a scenario with potential fire hazards in a confined space, what is required?

    Test for flammable atmospheres and use ventilation or other controls to reduce risks. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

55. 55

    What verification is needed for safe entry into a confined space?

    The entry supervisor must verify that all tests have been conducted and conditions are acceptable. (29 CFR 1910.146(e))

56. 56

    What coordination is needed for entries involving contractors?

    Debrief contractors on hazards and obtain their procedures to ensure compatibility. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

57. 57

    When must a confined space be continuously monitored?

    During the entire entry operation if hazards could develop or change. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

58. 58

    What is the employer's responsibility for confined space programs?

    Develop and implement a written program for safe entry operations. (29 CFR 1910.146(c))

59. 59

    If atmospheric conditions change during entry, what action is required?

    Immediately suspend entry and re-evaluate the space. (29 CFR 1910.146(e))

60. 60

    What training evaluation is required for confined space entrants?

    Retraining if there is a change in operations or if the entrant does not demonstrate proficiency. (29 CFR 1910.146(g))

61. 61

    Under 29 CFR 1910.146, what must be done post-entry?

    Review the entry to ensure the program worked and retain the permit for record. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

62. 62

    A worker feels symptoms of heat stress in a confined space. What should they do?

    Exit the space immediately and report to the attendant for medical evaluation. (29 CFR 1910.146(h))

63. 63

    What barriers are required around confined spaces?

    Physical barriers to prevent accidental entry by unauthorized persons. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

64. 64

    How must employers ensure confined space safety for non-routine entries?

    Follow the same permit procedures and hazard evaluations as for routine entries. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))

65. 65

    What is required for confined spaces with biological hazards?

    Evaluate and control as per general hazard requirements, potentially referencing other standards. (29 CFR 1910.146(d))