Statistics suggest that the cause of death associated with confined space entry has not changed appreciably in recent years. A review of 200 confined space fatality cases from the OSHA database occurring between 1993 and 2004 suggest that approximately 65% of incidents with fatalities involved atmospheric contamination and engulfment accounted for less than 10% of the identified causes. However, the fatality cases in this sampling do not represent all U.S. confined space incidents resulting in fatalities, but it does give us a sense that most of these deaths could have been prevented.
While it is critical to comply with all aspects of the OSHA “Permit-Required Confined Space” requirements (29 CFR 1910.146), I feel there are 3 specific aspects to the law which can prevent most of the fatalities that have occurred. If you are entering Permit-Required Confined Spaces and are missing any of these components, you might be putting your employees’ lives in jeopardy.
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Air Monitors (Gas Detectors): Most monitors specifically designed for confined space are already configured with 4 sensors (although many different sensors are available). You minimally must have a sensor for oxygen and flammables (LEL sensor), but hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon monoxide (CO) are commonly included.
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Ventilation Blowers: This is the easiest technique to help bring in fresh air to a confined space that might either be lacking in oxygen or have a dangerous chemical vapor or gas that needs to be evacuated. Even with proper ventilation, certain respiratory equipment might be required.
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Rescue/Retrieval Equipment: This could be a tripod/winch set-up or other apparatus to quickly get an employee out of a dangerous situation. If a company only relies on calling the local fire department if a problem arises, you might be too late!
Feel free to contact the Conney Safety Support Team at 800-462-1947 if you wish to discuss any of the components to a confined space program.
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