Confined spaces are high-risk work
Tanks, vessels, pits, vaults, sumps, silos and crawl-in utility spaces are confined spaces: large enough to enter, with limited ways in and out, and not designed for continuous occupancy. Many are permit-required spaces under OSHA's confined space standards (29 CFR 1910.146 for general industry, Subpart AA of 29 CFR 1926 for construction) because of hazards such as oxygen deficiency, toxic or flammable atmospheres, engulfment or entrapment. Confined spaces account for a disproportionate share of workplace fatalities, including would-be rescuers.
How we coordinate confined space cleaning
We arrange this work only through field partners with trained entrants, attendants and entry supervisors, and appropriate equipment. Each project includes:
- Hazard evaluation with your team, covering contents, previous use, energy sources and atmospheric hazards.
- Isolation. Lockout/tagout, blanking or blinding of lines, and draining or purging, performed by or with your authorized personnel.
- Permit and monitoring. A written entry permit, continuous atmospheric monitoring and ventilation.
- Rescue planning. Retrieval systems and a rescue plan suited to the space, whether a dedicated rescue team or arrangements with the local fire department, confirmed before entry.
- Cleaning of sludge, residues, debris or biological contamination with methods suited to the material.
- Waste handling according to the waste's characterization.
- Documentation of permits, monitoring logs and work completed.
Typical projects
- Sumps, pits and trenches with sludge or sewage
- Storage and process tanks with residues
- Utility vaults and manholes with contamination
- Crawlspaces and plenums meeting confined-space criteria
Common questions
Who provides the rescue service?
It depends on the site. The rescue arrangement is confirmed and documented before any entry.
Can you use our permit system?
Yes. On sites with an established program, we work under your permit system.
Do you handle hazardous residues?
Hazardous residues require characterization and appropriate handling. Your environmental manager and our partners plan this before work begins.