Confined Space Awareness - Updated
- Anna Hayford
- May 1, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Jun 25
What is a confined space?
Osha defines it as a space that has 3 properties:
Limited means of entry and/or exit.
Large enough for a worker to enter it.
Not intended for regular/continuous occupancy.
A space must meet all three criteria to be deemed a confined space.
Who says it’s a confined space?
A confined space must be defined by a competent person - someone trained in the hazards of the job and the proper controls to use for employee protection.
Isett relies on CMI for confined space determination.
Do Not Enter:
Not all Isett Associates are trained on confined space safety. Do NOT enter one without training.
If asked to enter:
Onsite, contact your Project Manager and Chris Kotch at 484-505-8273.
Afterwards, let us know at safety@barryisett.com.
A Real Story:
We talk about confined space because tragedies are sadly fairly common. Over 1,000 deaths occurred in confined spaces from 2011-2018.
One that highlights the dangers in our industry comes from Key Largo, FL.
Elway Gray, 34, Louis O’Keefe, 49, and Robert Wilson, 24, were investigating a settling issue in the paved street.
One man entered a manhole. Moments later, the tunnel went silent. Fearing the first was trapped, a second entered the hole. When he did not resurface, the third worker panicked and went in to try to rescue his coworkers.
All three men died, overcome by poisonous fumes underground.
Please consider this story and do not enter manholes without training.
