Confined workspaces is a term motor carriers might associate solely with tanker operations, but in truth, confined spaces can be any area that is not necessarily designed for people but is large enough for workers to enter and perform certain jobs.
A confined space is not designed for continuous occupancy and has limited or restricted means for entry or exit, such as a service pit in the shop. In CFR Part 1910.146, OSHA defines a permit-required confined space as a contained space meeting one of these characteristics:
- Contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere,
- Contains material that has the potential to engulf an entrant,
- Has walls that converge inward or floors that slope downward and taper into a smaller area, which could trap or asphyxiate an entrant, or
- Contains any other recognized safety or health hazard, such as unguarded machinery, exposed live wires, or heat stress.
Hazards of a confined space
Confined spaces can increase the risk of injury or death if a worker becomes trapped or incapacitated inside the space. Some of the hazards that may exist inside a confined space include:
- Poor ventilation due to the buildup of harmful gases, fumes, or vapors. Exposure to these substances can cause respiratory problems, dizziness, or even suffocation.
- Hazardous substances in the area such as fuel, oil, or cleaning chemicals. Exposure to these substances can result in skin irritation, chemical burns, or other serious health effects.
- Fire or explosion caused by sparks from tools or equipment, electrical malfunctions, or other ignition sources. These can ignite flammable vapors or gases, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
- Physical hazards, including moving parts of machinery, sharp edges, or uneven surfaces. These hazards can cause injuries such as cuts, bruises, or fractures if not properly managed.
- Engulfment caused by a worker being exposed to flowing liquids or loose materials. Engulfment can lead to suffocation or drowning, especially if the substance is difficult to escape from.
How motor carriers can mitigate hazards of confined spaces
Motor carriers should implement a comprehensive confined space entry program to mitigate these hazards. This can include:
- Identifying all confined spaces and assessing the risks associated with each space.
- Implementing safe work practices for entering, working in, and exiting confined spaces. These practices may include procedures for testing the atmosphere, using personal protective equipment, and communicating with workers inside the space.
- Providing training to workers exposed to the hazards of confined spaces, including awareness of symptoms and emergency response.
- Establishing rescue procedures by coordinating with local emergency services and ensuring rescue equipment is readily available.
- Monitoring, inspecting, and maintaining equipment used in confined spaces, such as ventilation systems, lighting, and communication devices, to ensure they are in good working condition.
CALL TO ACTION
- Analyze your operations and implement a confined space program if needed.
Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.
This material is intended to be a broad overview of the subject matter and is provided for informational purposes only. Joe Morten & Son, Inc. does not provide legal advice to its insureds or other parties, nor does it advise insureds or other parties on employment-related issues, therefore the subject matter is not intended to serve as legal or employment advice for any issue(s) that may arise in the operations of its insureds or other parties. Legal advice should always be sought from legal counsel. Joe Morten & Son, Inc. shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, action, or inaction alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the information contained herein. Reprinted with permission from Great West Casualty Company.