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Confined or Enclosed Spaces ยป Definition of Space
 
Space

An area on a vessel or vessel section or within a shipyard such as, but not limited to: cargo tanks or holds; pump or engine rooms; storage lockers; tanks containing flammable or combustible liquids, gases, or solids; rooms within buildings; crawl spaces; tunnels; or accessways. The atmosphere within a space is the entire area within its bounds. [1915.11(b)]

Note: 1915 Subpart B applies to all Confined/Enclosed Space Entry throughout the Shipyard Employment. General Industry 1910.146 Permit-Required Confined Space Entry does not apply.

Adjacent Space

A space bordering a subject space in all directions, including all points of contact, corners, diagonals, decks, tank tops, and bulkheads. [1915.11(b)]
Figure 1: Vessel cross section.
Figure 1: Vessel cross section.

Confined Space

Any space or void with limited access for entry and exit access, such as a double bottom tank, cofferdam, or other space, which, by its design and confined nature can  readily create or aggravate a hazardous exposure. [1915.4(p)]

Spaces with limited openings for entry and exit with unfavorable natural ventilation — not intended for human occupancy — can readily aggravate a hazardous exposure because of its design (e.g., double bottom tank, wing tank, cofferdam).

Enclosed Space

"Any space, other than a confined space, which is enclosed by bulkheads and overhead. These may include cargo holds, tanks, quarters, and machinery and boiler spaces." [1915.4(q)]
 

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