Confined Space; Definition - Firecom 4100 Operation Manual

Definition

A confined space has all of the following characteristics:
• A restricted opening that makes entry and exit difficult
• Large enough for an adult to enter completely
• Not designed to be occupied
Most confined spaces are designed to hold substances such as liquids, gases, and loose materials, or to house equip-
ment. Though they come in many sizes and shapes, most can be classified in two ways: those with depth and open
tops, and those with narrow openings.
Examples
Open top and deep spaces include pits, wells, vats, hoppers, bins, degreasers, and kettles. Spaces with narrow open-
ings include ship compartments, silos, pipes, tunnels, utility vaults, casings, and sewers.
Permit Space
A permit space is a confined space that may contain life-threatening hazards. No one can enter a permit space
without first completing a written entry permit and having it signed and posted by an entry supervisor. For more
information, see the OSHA web site.
For a quick reference to the required Confined Space Standard permit, see www.orosha.org -or- osha.org

CONFINED SPACE

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