English -- Guide for Safe Confined Space Entry and Work - Effective Date: 11/25/2018

Abstract

Scope: This guide provides information to protect workers from confined space hazards. This guide supplements existing confined space regulations, standards, and work practices by providing additional guidance for safe confined space entry and work. References are provided throughout the guide and annexes to direct the reader to other regulations and standards or other content that might be applicable. This guide provides information to identify, evaluate, assess, and then eliminate, mitigate, or control hazards that are present or that may occur during entry into or work in and around confined spaces. This guide provides information on how to understand confined space safety and safeguard personnel from fire, explosion, and other health hazards that are uniquely associated with confined spaces. This guide provides information regarding training, qualifications, and competencies required for personnel responsible for confined space hazard identification, hazard evaluation, and hazard control for personnel who work in and around confined spaces. This guide provides information on confined space rescue best practices. This guide provides information concerning confined space hazards and safety practices that are applicable to all types of confined spaces. This guide provides information regarding hazards adjacent to confined spaces that might affect the safe conditions necessary for entry and work in a confined space. This guide provides criteria for eliminating, mitigating, or controlling hazards in the confined space design phase.  Purpose. The purpose of this guide is to provide safe work practices for persons working in and around confined spaces. This guide goes beyond the minimum requirements that have been established by regulations and standards. This guide strives to achieve a higher level of safety with best practices for identifying, evaluating, and then eliminating, mitigating, or controlling hazards to manage the risks associated with confined space activities. This guide is also intended to address confined space–related work practices and procedures not fully covered or explained in existing regulations and standards related to confined space entry and work.