OSHA Confined Spaces Changes Effective August 3rd

In May, OSHA added requirements for employee protection in confined spaces in the construction industry. While the final ruling is similar to the general industry, it does address construction specific hazards, includes technological advances and enhances enforceability.

The final ruling by OSHA is anticipated to reduce the average number of fatalities and injuries by an astounding 96%. This final ruling went into effect on August 3, 2015. You can find the ruling at https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2015/05/04/2015-08843/confined-spaces-in-construction#addresses. No changes in the OSHA rules in the construction industry related to confined spaces has occurred since 1973!

The key differences in the new ruling include these five new requirements:

•  More detail into the requirements of activities at the worksite, outside of the confined space.
• Continuous atmospheric monitoring when possible.
• Continuous monitoring of engulfment hazards
• Allowing a suspension rather than a cancellation when entry conditions change from the initial permit.
• Work site evaluation and identification of confined spaces by qualified individual.

According to the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, Dr. David Michaels, “This rule emphasizes training, continuous worksite evaluation and communication requirements to further protect workers’ safety and health.”