Shipyard Employment eTool
Confined or Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres >> Initial Entry Testing
Testing the Atmosphere, Warning Signs and Labels, Visual Inspection, Ventilation, PPE Before Work, and Establishing Rescue Teams.
The moment of entry is critical in confined or enclosed space operations. Injuries from fires, explosions, falls, and unsafe atmospheres may be avoided with careful preparation and adequate testing.
Note: During shipbuilding operations, the need for testing by a shipyard competent person (SCP) and certified marine chemist (CMC) will depend on the progress of the vessel construction. Until there is a potential for a hazard, such as oxygen deficiency, or after the introduction of flammable materials, testing may not be required.
OSHA requires the following precautions as part of confined or enclosed space entry:
- Periodic Re-Testing [See Pre-Entry (Planning): Testing the Atmosphere]
- Warning Signs and Labels
- Visual Inspection
- Ventilation
- Personal Protective Equipment Before Work [See PPE Selection: Workers in Confined or Enclosed Spaces]
- Rescue Teams [See Pre-Entry (Planning): Establishing Rescue Teams