Chapter 8 - Confined space entry and hotwork

Abstract

The hazards associated with confined space entry (CSE) and hotwork (HW) are the focus of two distinct sets of American regulations (29 CFR 1910.146 and 29 CFR 1910.252, respectively). Both sets of regulations involve the use of in-plant permits and it is therefore generally more efficient to combine company policies regarding these two issues in a single compliance document. Confined space has limited openings for human entry and exit and may present entering personnel with safety hazards due to gases, vapors, or other physical hazards. Hotwork performed by a single person in an isolated location can result in the generation of fire, explosion, and toxic fumes that can affect large numbers of people in distant locations, including the surrounding community. In most companies, overall responsibility for confined space entry and hotwork procedures is usually given to the maintenance supervisor or the corporate safety officer, although it is not uncommon in relatively small companies to assign this responsibility to production personnel.