Confined or enclosed spaces may present
hazards such as
oxygen-deficient or oxygen-enriched atmospheres,
flammable atmospheres,
toxic atmospheres,
or a combination of these. Employers must
ensure that work can be performed safely before permitting employees to
enter these spaces.
During preparation for entry and work, shipyard personnel
must consider safety issues including: electrical hazards, illumination,
ventilation, means of access (such as ladders), fall protection, and other
potential hazards.
A Marine Chemist or Shipyard Competent Person (SCP) must
then conduct atmospheric testing and perform a visual
inspection.
Only Marine Chemists, Shipyard Competent Persons (SCP), and Certified Industrial
Hygienists (CIH) may evaluate confined and enclosed spaces.
Pre-entry evaluation should include the following:
|
Figure 1:
Testing atmosphere in confined space.
Figure 2:
Ventilation leading into an enclosed space.
Figure 3:
Workers being trained in isolation areas for asbestos removal.
Figure 4:
Rescue team practicing confined space rescue . |
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