Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001A Hazard: CONFINED

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to: a) 355 Center Road, Wheeling, Illinois - Water Tower Tank #1 - On September 28, 1994, employees entered a confined space, Wheeling Water Tower, Tank #1, for the purpose of removing paint coating by abrasive blasting, performing welding operations, and painting the interior walls of the tank, exposing employees to the potential hazard of asphyxiation and explosive and/or toxic atmospheres immediately dangerous to life and health. A confined space entry procedure was not enforced which was specific for the worker's exposures to confined space hazards when welding, abrasive blasting and painting operations are performed. Among other methods, on feasible and acceptable method to correct these hazards is to establish and implement a confined space entry program such as that specified in ANSI Z117.1-1989. The program shall consist of the following: 1) Develop and utilize effective procedures for confined space entry including but not limited to utilizing a permit system, atmospheric testing, rescue procedures, employee training, and designation of a qualified person for standby and emergency procedures. 2) The completion and posting of a confined space entry permit which requires authorization and approval in writing that specifies the location and type of work to be done and certifies that all existing hazards have been evaluated by a qualified person and the necessary protective measures have been taken to ensure the safety of each worker. 3) Testing the atmosphere of the confined space prior to entry and on a regular basis for presence for sufficient oxygen (19.5) and absence of hazardous levels of toxic or combustible gases or vapors. 4) Emergency procedures with requirements that trained personnel are available and are stationed outside the confined space with proper equipment to provide for the rescue of persons entering the space. Such equipment must include a safety harness and lifelines with provision for hoisting employees from the confined space. If entry is required for rescue, the rescuing employee must be equipped with approved air supplied/self-contained breathing apparatus or other appropriate respiratory protection and other appropriate personal protective equipment. 5) Training shall be provided to all employees required to enter the confined space or assist in rescue/emergency activities. The training shall include the procedures required prior to entry and the hazards associated with work in the confined space, use of protective, testing and rescue.