Page 6 - Confined Space Training - Student Manual 2021

Chapter 2 – Identifying Confined Spaces and Permit-Required Confined
Spaces

Topics Presented in this Chapter

• OSHA’s definition of confined space
• OSHA’s definition of a permit-required confined space
• Confined spaces that may be on your worksite
• Permit-required confined spaces that may be on your worksite
• Utilization of the Confined Space Decision Matrix

Confined Space Stats

Each year in the United States over 1.2 million workers enter confined spaces. During that time,
an average of 96 are killed because of hazards found in confined spaces. Of those 96 killed,
approximately 50-60% are would-be rescuers. Confined Spaces present several hazards that all
workers should be aware of.

OSHA Confined Space Definition

A Confined Space is a space that:

1. Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform
assigned work
2. Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit (for example, tanks, vessels, silos, storage
bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits are spaces that may have limited means of entry)
3. Is not designated for continuous occupancy.

Each of the three requirements cited above must be met for the space to be considered a confined
space.

Entry by means of a ladder may establish the area as a confined space; however, the space may
not constitute a permit-required confined space if all hazards have been eliminated or can be
reclassified as a non-permit space once all hazards have been eliminated.

Permit Required Confined Spaces

A permit-required confined space that has one or more features
that require the worker to take special precautions is considered
an immediate health and safety risk.

A Permit-Required Confined Space is a confined space that has,
or may have, one or more of the following characteristics:
1. Hazardous Atmosphere. The area contains or has the
potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere. This could
mean that the oxygen content of the space is unhealthful,

Confined Space Training for Entrants, Attendants & Supervisors 6