CalOSHA Confined Space Guide

Information on fatalities regulatory requirements hazards prevesion and rescue techniques.

This Confined Space Guide has been developed to explain the hazards of confined space work and to assist employers in establishing and maintaining an effective confined space program. By implementing such a program, both employers and employees will be able to:

• Recognize, evaluate, and control confined space hazards.
• Save lives and protect employees from job-related injuries and illnesses.
• Promote safe and effective work practices.
• Reduce preventable workers’ compensation losses.
• Comply with the law.

The Confined Space Guide contains information, definitions, and requirements for entry into permit-required confined spaces (Section 5157). To call the attention of employers whose operations and industries are regulated under Section 5158, the confined space definition and requirements are distinctively highlighted. To clarify and facilitate the understanding of confined space issues, the guide presents the information in the format of questions and answers and…