Confined Spaces in Construction

OSHA's Confined Spaces in Construction standard is intended to protect workers from toxic, explosive, or asphyxiating atmospheres; from possible engulfment or entrapment; and from other hazards.

The confined spaces construction standard (29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA) sets requirements for practices and procedures to protect employees engaged in construction activities at a worksite with one or more confined spaces. Under the standard, employers must:

• Identify each permit-required confined space.
• Prevent unauthorized entry into confined spaces.
• Protect authorized entrants from hazards through a permit space program.

It's important to note that the employer doesn't need to be a construction company — OSHA says construction, alteration and/or repair work including painting and decorating qualifies as construction work, even if it is not new construction. For example, repair of existing facilities or replacement of equipment or structures with upgraded, improved parts is considered construction. However, maintenance work (i.e., keeping a structure in proper condition in a routine or scheduled fashion) does not qualify as construction work.

Our confined space training and solutions can help you:

• Understand the definition of a confined space and a permit-required confined space.
• Identify hazards associated with working in permit spaces.
• Know the general rules and responsibilities of the authorized entrant, attendant, and entry supervisor.
• Identify the role of the emergency rescue team.