Confined Spaces (Attics and Crawl Spaces)

1. The space contains clean, respirable air at all times, with no potential for hazardous atmospheres.
2. Openings to the atmosphere provide adequate natural ventilation.
3. The space has sufficient interior volume (no less than 2 meters/64 cubic feet per occupant).
4. The design and location of the space ensure there is no need for mechanical ventilation, cleaning, or purging prior to entry.
5. There is no potential for hazardous substances to migrate into the space.
6. The space is free of residual materials (e.g., waste, sludge, or debris) that could release harmful air contaminants.
7. The space does not contain equipment, tools, or processes that could generate hazardous air contaminants.
8. There is no risk of worker entrapment or engulfment upon entry.

If any of the above conditions are not met, the space becomes a hazardous confined space and requires a confined space entry permit. Workers must follow all necessary precautions and regulations when dealing with such hazardous environments.

This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.

• Mold
• Rodents/Insects

Chemical: 

• Carbon Monoxide

Physical: 

• Heat Stress/Cold Exposure
• Radiation
• Vibration
• Electrical Shock
• Inadequate lighting
• Slips/Trips
• Fall from Heights
• Restricted movement and awkward posture
• Emergency Rescue complications

• Communication device (e.g., cell phone or 2-way radios)
• Adequate ventilation
• Appropriate lighting

Administrative: 

• Company Rules
• Establish an Emergency Response Plan (ERP)
• Work Alone Plan
• Hazard Assessment

Personal Protective Equipment:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) appropriate for the task
• Portable carbon monoxide (CO) detector and outside monitor person

• Ensure PPE is being worn.
• Ensure conditions of non-hazardous confined space are met.
• Ensure a hazard assessment has been completed.
• Know the purpose of the entry (e.g., what type of work will be taking place in the confined space).
• Ensure portable CO detector is present and operational.
• Ensure an Emergency Response Plan/rescue plan is in place.

Do not

• Allow Workers to enter a confined space in extreme heat or cold.
• Allow Workers to enter a confined space that does not have a safe means of entry and exit.
• Allow Workers to enter a confined space that has inadequate lighting.

• Complete a hazard assessment prior to starting work.
• Notify supervisor of entry.
• Wear all required PPE.
• Ensure adequate lighting and use a flashlight or headlamp if necessary.
• Ensure adequate ventilation prior to entry.
• Have an ERP/rescue plan in place.
• Know the hazards of the confined space to be entered, and the procedures taken to eliminate or control them including provisions for pedestrian, vehicle and other barriers as necessary to protect entrants from external hazards.
• Know the acceptable entry conditions and verification that these conditions are continued for the duration of the entry.
• If a ladder is required for entry, ensure it is properly inspected and maintain 3-point contact at all times and follow appropriate ladder procedures.
• Know the rescue and emergency services to be summoned in the event of an emergency, and the means for summoning them.
• Have equipment available to facilitate both non-entry, and entry rescue if necessary.
• Always attempt to perform non-entry rescue before entry rescue.

Do not

• Enter a confined space that does not have a safe means of entry and exit.
• Enter a confined space during periods of extreme heat or cold.
• Enter a confined space that has inadequate lighting.
• Disturb insulation or debris.
• Overexert yourself.