Definitions

a. Is large enough and so configured that an individual can bodily enter and perform assigned work; and

b. Has restricted means for entry or exit; and

c. Is not designed for continuous occupancy.

Some of the examples are water boxes, demin water storage tanks, sewage surge tanks, tunnels, ditches, and pull boxes. For full list of site confined spaces, contact your Site safety coordinator or see lists on the Fleet Safety website.

B. Permit-Required Confined Space – A confined space that has one or more of the following characteristics:

a. Contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere, or

b. Contains a material that has the potential for engulfing an entrant, or

c. Has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor which slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross section, or

d. Contains any other recognized serious safety and health hazard.

1. A determination shall be made by testing to ensure that the atmosphere is safe prior to entering a confined space.
2. Never enter a confined space without a complete Confined Space Entry Classification checklist and permit, if required. Entry is considered to have occurred as soon as any part of the entrant’s body breaks the plane of the opening into the space.
3. When testing is performed, the atmosphere shall be measured for oxygen content and then for the presence of explosive gases or toxic atmospheres.
4. The entry supervisor, entrants, and attendant shall be aware of changing risks and hazards in the space and take appropriate action.
5. Respiratory protection shall be provided when work in confined spaces causes the generation of toxic dust, fumes, or mists that cannot be controlled by forced ventilation.
6. Emergency entry into confined spaces or areas where an unsafe atmospheric condition exists shall require the use of a positive-pressure, self-contained breathing apparatus, or an air line system with a self-contained escape unit.
7. Refer to NMP-FLS-005 Confined Space Procedure and its instructions for additional information related to work in confined spaces.