Abstract:

OSHA proposes to establish safety requirements, including a permit
system, for entry into those confined spaces which OSHA has
identified as posing special dangers for entrants due to their
configuration or other features. The proposed standard provides a
comprehensive regulatory framework within which the employer can
more effectively apply the existing 29 CFR 1910 standards to protect
employees who work in such confined spaces. The proposed standard
introduces the term "permit required confined space" to cover the
particular confined spaces which are to be regulated. This standard
will require identification of potential confined spaces, warning
signs prohibiting unauthorized entry, a permit system with
authorization for entry, training of employees, PPE for employees,
stand-by personnel for rescue, and special permits for entry into
low hazard permit spaces.