Purpose:
Numerous confined spaces exist aboard MCB, Quantico. Examples of these are fuel cells of aircraft or large vessels, underground or aboveground storage tanks, storm water or wastewater manholes, and communications (i.e., telephone) vaults.
The following three characteristics define a confined space: 1) Space NOT designed for routing human occupancy; 2) Large enough for bodily entry, 3) Has restricted access or entry.
In addition to this, a confined space does have to be a covered enclosure; hence, trenches deeper than four feet are also confined spaces. Confined spaces aboard MCB, Quantico have been identified, but are a constantly changing item, due to new construction and re-design, maintenance, etc.
General Information:
Federal law requires that anyone who will, in the execution of their duties be entering a confined space, be adequately qualified. The initial class requires two days, while the annual refresher is two hours long.
Qualified persons are presented with a wallet cards upon successfully completing the course. (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146, OPNAVINST 5100.23, and MCO 5100.8)
Contact Information:
For more information or if there is a doubt of whether a location is a confined space or not, please contact the Program Manager at (703) 432-1127.