Confined spacesControlling hazards and minimizing risks
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Ways to control hazards and make confined spaces safer
• Barriers and signage
• Equipment upgrades or engineered
controls
• Contract out confined space work
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Signage
• Sign tells workers to keep out
• Worker training — need to respect signage
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Signage must be:
• Clearly visible
• Well maintained
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Barrier – tanks
• Install barriers in hatchways to prevent entry
Equipment upgrades and engineered controls
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• Move equipment outside of the space or install a system that removes equipment (e.g., pumps, agitators) for servicing or repair
• Install clean-in-place systems
• Install augers to break up bridges in bins
• Relocate openings (e.g., on the side, rather than the top) and make the openings larger
• Install removable stairways into vaults or pits
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Manure pit
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Pump shed
• Install ventilation fans
• Move valves, pumps, and controls to outside panels so workers do not have to enter the shed
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Milk tank
• Install clean-in-place automated washing system so workers do not have to enter
• Contract out internal maintenance and repair
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Water treatment plant
• Install stairways for easier access
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Compost truck
• Design a pole-mounted pusher so workers can push remaining compost without entering the truck bed
• Install a wash system in the truck bed to help clear compost
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Bins and silos
• Install an in-place system to remove grain or feed blockages — workers do not have to enter the space
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Contracting out
• Contracting out delegates work to people with specialized training and equipment
• Contractors must have their own confined space entry program
• Employers must ensure contractors are competent to work in confined spaces and are following safe work procedures