Osha Permit Required Confined Space Decision Flow Chart
Introduction
Working in confined spaces is always dangerous, and it is essential to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of workers. To ensure this, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set guidelines and regulations that must be followed when working in confined spaces. One of these guidelines is the OSHA Permit Required Confined Space Decision Flow Chart.
What is the OSHA Permit Required Confined Space Decision Flow Chart?
The OSHA Permit Required Confined Space Decision Flow Chart is a tool used by employers to determine whether a confined space requires a permit before entry. The flow chart is designed to be used by employers who are responsible for creating a permit-required confined space program.
How to Use the Flow Chart
The flow chart is designed to be easy to use, and it consists of three main parts:
- The first part is used to determine if the space is a confined space.
- The second part is used to determine if the confined space is permit-required.
- The third part is used to determine if the entry is allowed.
Part One: Is the Space a Confined Space?
The first question to ask when using the flow chart is whether the space is a confined space. According to OSHA, a confined space is a space that:
- Is large enough for a worker to enter and perform work.
- Has limited or restricted means of entry or exit.
- Is not designed for continuous occupancy.
If the space meets all three of these criteria, it is considered a confined space, and you can move on to the second part of the flow chart.
Part Two: Is the Confined Space Permit-Required?
The second part of the flow chart is used to determine if the confined space is permit-required. According to OSHA, a permit-required confined space is a space that:
- Contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere.
- Contains a material that has the potential for engulfment.
- Has an internal configuration that could trap or asphyxiate an entrant.
- Contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.
If the confined space meets any of these criteria, it is considered permit-required, and you can move on to the third part of the flow chart.
Part Three: Is Entry Allowed?
The third and final part of the flow chart is used to determine if entry is allowed. To do this, you must consider the following:
- Are all hazards eliminated or controlled?
- Are the necessary permits and procedures in place?
- Is the authorized entrant trained and equipped?
- Is there an attendant present?
If you can answer yes to all of these questions, entry is allowed, and you can enter the confined space. If you cannot answer yes to any of these questions, entry is not allowed, and you must take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of workers.
Conclusion
The OSHA Permit Required Confined Space Decision Flow Chart is an essential tool for ensuring the safety of workers who work in confined spaces. By following the flow chart and taking all necessary precautions, employers can prevent accidents and ensure the safety of their workers.