Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 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 confined space hazards of oxygen deficiency and exposure to flammable gases and vapors and/or toxic air contaminants: a) Employees working inside a manhole located at the Intersection of Little Egg Harbor and Curlew Rds, in Tuckerton Beach, N.J. during sewer pipeline replacement operations on or about 9/6/88. Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable method to correct this hazard is to implement a confined space entry program containing but not limited to the following provisions: a) Pre-entry and periodic continous testing of the atmosphere for sufficient oxygen content and atmospheric testing for flammable and/ or toxic gasses, vapors and/or fumes determined by conditions anticipated and by the nature of the work to be performed. b) The space must be cleaned and flushed or purged of hazardous material to the extent partical. c) A system for positive ventilation shall be provided prior to and during the entire entry period through the use of fans, portovents, air movers or by adequate natural drafts. d) Any person entering a confined space must be fitted with a safety harness and lifeline and the lifeline must be secured outside the entrance. e) A second person shall be available at the area entrance and in sight of the person inside at all times. He shall be equipped with proper safety equipment and adequate communication equipment to summon help in an emergency. f) Self - contained breathing apparatus or supplied air respirators must be available at the vessel entrance and these devices must be used if testing reveals a hazardous atmosphere in the confined space. g) Where entry into the confined space is through the top opening, a hoisting device or other effective means must be provided to lift employees out of the space in emergency situations.