Safety Corner
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Did you know that OSHA has developed a "new" construction standard for Confined Spaces? The new standard is found in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA, and went into effect on August 3, 2015. It applies to any space that meets the following three criteria - is large enough for a worker to enter; has limited means of entry or exit; and is not designed for continuous occupancy.
A space may also be a Permit-Required Confined Space if it has a hazardous atmosphere, the potential for engulfment or suffocation, a layout that might trap a worker through converging walls, a sloped floor, complicated obstructions within the space, or any other serious safety or health hazard.
Under the new construction standard, each employer must ensure that a competent person identifies all confined spaces in which one or more of the employees it directs may work. The competent person must also identify each space that is a permit required space, through consideration and evaluation of the elements of that space, including atmospheric testing as necessary.
This is only the beginning. There is much more to the standard that should be understood and implemented by Construction Industry employers to protect their employees, to include new training requirements as well as rescue and emergency services. It is in your best interest as an employer to become familiar with the new construction standard for Confined Spaces and protect your employees. Let's keep production going by working smart and working safe.
For more information on Confined Space Entry, or other construction industry safety questions or concerns, please contact PGM Safety Services, an affiliate company of Pro Group Management, and we will be happy to assist you at:
www.Pgmnv.com Phone:
800-859-3177
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