On May 1, 2015 OSHA remedied this by finalizing the final rule for confined spaces in construction, which discusses training requirements, and permit programs designed to protect workers exposed to physical and atmospheric hazards. Much of this new rule repeats language from other safety regulations, but is still noteworthy in discussing.
Workers must be aware of where confined spaces are located. They must also have proper postings of danger signs and areas where proper permits are provided. There must be a written process between the employer and worker who enters the confined space. A written program must be implemented prior to and during any confined space entry operation.
The confined space program must incorporate a process for hazard detection of atmospheric and physical hazards that should be addressed before entering the confined space. In addition, there are three points one must remember if a hazard is detected during entry:
All employers must provide necessary confined space training to their workers at no cost to the worker. This training must:
OSHA law requires employers to provide workers with a safe work environment. For more information, OSHA has also released three new fact sheets available for download. For more information on confined space training and other ways of bettering your safety culture download our safety manager’s training guide to safety training.