Click on an area for more specific information. Employee Training | Exchanging Information Atmospheric Testing | Rescue Teams

Confined or enclosed spaces may present hazards such as oxygen-deficient or -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: isolation of piping systems, 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 testing and a visual inspection.

Only Marine Chemists, Shipyard Competent Persons (SCP), and Certified Industrial Hygienists may evaluate confined and enclosed spaces.

Pre-entry evaluation should include the following:

• Training Employees
• Exchanging Information Between Employers
• Testing the Atmosphere
• Establishing Rescue Teams