Appearing below are links to the OSHA 1910 general industry standards for permit-required confined space entry:
- 1910.146 – Permit-required confined spaces
- Appendix A, Permit-required confined space decision flow chart
- Appendix B, Procedures for atmospheric testing
- Appendix C, Examples of permit-required confined space programs
- Appendix D, Confined space pre-entry check list
- Appendix E, Sewer system entry
- Appendix F, Rescue team or rescue service evaluation criteria (Non-mandatory)
Here are links to some other OSHA 1910 general industry standards that specifically mention work conducted inside a confined space:
- 1910 Subpart H – Hazardous materials,
- 1910.124, General requirements for dipping and coating operations
- 1910 Subpart Q – Welding, cutting, and brazing
- 1910.252, General requirements
- 1910 Subpart R – Special industries
Bear in mind that other OSHA general industry standards, such as but not limited to, lockout tagout, respiratory protection, hazardous substances, haz-com, and PPE, could apply to your confined space entry operations. Refer to the OSHA 1910 general industry standards to determine all related standards that apply to your work.
MEET OSHA CONFINED SPACE ENTRY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR GENERAL INDUSTRY
OSHA General Industry Confined Space Standards Overview
The primary OSHA standard for permit-required confined space entry in general industry is 29 CFR 1910.146. This standard establishes requirements for practices and procedures to protect employees from the hazards of entry into permit-required confined spaces. It applies to general industry workplaces but does not cover agriculture, construction, or shipyard employment, which have separate OSHA standards. The standard includes several appendices that provide useful information when developing or evaluating a confined space entry program, including a decision flow chart, atmospheric testing procedures, program examples, a pre-entry checklist, sewer system entry guidance, and rescue service evaluation criteria.Entry Permit Authorization and Supervisor Duties
Before entry begins, the entry supervisor identified on the permit must sign the entry permit to authorize entry under 29 CFR 1910.146. The entry supervisor has specific duties including knowing the hazards that may be faced during entry, including information on the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequences of exposure. The entry permit documents information about the hazards within the permit space and verifies completion of all measures that must be implemented before allowing employees to enter. Required information on the permit is detailed in 1910.146 subparagraphs (f)(1) through (14).Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the OSHA standard for confined space in general industry?
The OSHA standard for permit-required confined space entry in general industry is 29 CFR 1910.146. This standard contains requirements for practices and procedures to protect employees in general industry from the hazards of entry into permit-required confined spaces. It does not apply to agriculture, construction, or shipyard employment, which are covered by separate OSHA standards.
What training must employers provide for confined space entry in general industry?
Employers must provide training so that all employees whose work is regulated by 29 CFR 1910.146 acquire the understanding, knowledge, and skills necessary for the safe performance of their assigned duties. The training must establish employee proficiency and introduce new or revised procedures as necessary. Employers must certify that training has been accomplished, with documentation containing each employee's name, trainer signatures or initials, and training dates.
What is a non-permit required confined space?
A non-permit required confined space is a space that meets all three elements of the confined space definition but does not contain any of the hazards that would make it permit-required. An employer must re-evaluate a non-permit space if there are changes to its use or configuration that might increase hazards to entrants, or if there is indication the initial evaluation was inadequate. If an actual or potential hazard is identified, the space must be reclassified as permit-required.