Identify and Eliminate All Hazards

Working in confined spaces is dangerous since there are several confined-space hazards and risks. It is critical to identify all potential hazards in confined spaces and prepare mitigation measures as well as a rescue plan to follow in the event of an emergency. Always strive to avoid entering the confined space whenever feasible, but if this is not possible, only trained and authorized individuals must be allowed to enter the confined space, together with all necessary safety equipment, for optimum employee safety. Toxic atmospheres, oxygen deficiency/enrichment, flammable/explosive atmospheres, free liquids/free flowing solids, and extreme heat are only a few examples of confined-space hazards. Confined-space hazards can be divided into three categories on a broader level namely atmospheric hazards, physical hazards and psychological hazards.

Atmospheric hazards: mainly divide into four types

Flammable Atmosphere – Usually consists of flammable gas, vapors, or mist present in the atmosphere at a level greater than 10% of its lower flammable limit, resulting in a high danger of ignite inside the confined space.
Toxic Atmosphere – According to OSHA, such an atmosphere is highly contaminated because of the presence of dangerous gas, which exceeds the permitted exposure level and can be lethal to humans by inflicting bodily harm. These poisonous gases are classified as asphyxiants or irritants.
Oxygen Deficient/Enriched Atmosphere – Humans require oxygen, yet an oxygen deficiency or excess can be hazardous to their health. Oxygen-deficient environments make it difficult for humans to breathe and survive for extended periods of time, but oxygen-enriched environments can increase the risk of fire or explosion in the presence of flammable materials in confined spaces.
Airborne Dust Particles – airborne particles can result in poor visibility inside the confined space as well as act as a fire/explosion hazard due to the combustible nature of the dust particles.

Physical hazards:

Workers may face a variety of physical risks inside the confined space, including engulfment, falling or tripping, limited sight, noise, extreme temperature, biological hazards, energy sources, insects, rodents, and reptiles. In order to avoid deadly accidents, it is critical to provide intensive training to all personnel, especially those who will be working in confined spaces.

Psychological hazards:

Workers’ psychological disorders, such as claustrophobia, fear of heights, fear of darkness, or poor physical condition or constraints, can lead to harmful situations in a confined space. Employers must endeavor to accommodate their employees who have psychological concerns, even if they are minor, by avoiding allowing them to work in confined spaces that can aggravate the problem and arranging for a substitute to complete the assignment.

Before undertaking any activity in a confined space, it is a good idea to make a work plan. In order to avoid unforeseen occurrences and reduce fatal injuries to workers, OSHA has offered substantial information for businesses and employees who wish to work in confined spaces. Workers must comprehend the dangers of working in confined spaces, as well as the importance of following confined space safety protocols.