Common Violations in Confined Space Work and How to Avoid Them

Confined spaces, like tanks, silos, and manholes, pose serious risks to workers. Limited entry and exit points, poor ventilation, and hazardous atmospheres elevate the danger.  

Confined space violations lead to injuries, fatalities, along with substantial fines for employers. In 2023, OSHA reported over 1,000 confined space-related incidents in the U.S.. Many are tied to preventable errors. This article explores common confined space violations, how to avoid them, and practical steps to ensure worker safety.

What Are Confined Space Violations?

Confined space violations occur when employers or workers fail to follow safety protocols. These breaches can often stem from taking shortcuts, inadequate training or lack of emergency preparation. OSHA’s confined space entry regulations, outlined in 29 CFR 1910.146, set clear standards. Violations can result in fines exceeding $15,000 per incident but most importantly can endanger lives. 

Let’s delve into the most common violations and how to prevent them.

Common Confined Space Violations and Prevention Strategies

1. Inadequate Hazard Assessments 

Violation: Failing to identify confined space hazards before entry.
Workers enter spaces without knowing risks like toxic gases or low oxygen levels. In 2022, 60% of confined space fatalities involved hazardous atmospheres. 

How to Avoid:  

• Conduct a thorough hazard assessment before entry.  
• Use gas monitors to check for toxic or flammable gases.  
• Document findings and share them with the team.  
• Ensure workers have up to date training along with all relevant safety equipment. 
• Example: A chemical plant avoided disaster by testing a storage tank for hydrogen sulfide before entry. 

2. Lack of Proper Permits 

Violation: Bypassing confined space entry permits.
Permits ensure hazards are controlled and safety measures are in place. OSHA cites this violation frequently, with fines averaging $10,000. 

How to Avoid:  

• Implement a permit system for all confined space entries.  
• Include details like hazards, entry procedures, and rescue plans.  
• Train workers and/or subcontractors to verify permits before starting work.  
• Example: A construction firm faced a $12,000 fine for letting workers enter a sewer without a permit. 

3. Poor Training 

Violation: Sending untrained workers into confined spaces.
Untrained workers may not recognize confined space hazards or know emergency procedures. This leads to 30% of confined space incidents. 

How to Avoid:  

• Provide regular training on confined space entry safety for all workers and/or subcontractors. 
• Cover hazard recognition, equipment use, and rescue protocols.  
• Test workers’ knowledge through drills.  
• Example: A trained worker at a refinery escaped a collapsing silo because he knew the exit plan. 

4. Inadequate Rescue Plans 

Violation: No rescue plan or improper execution.
Many employers assume local emergency services will handle rescues. However, 60% of confined space deaths involve would-be rescuers. 

How to Avoid:  

• Develop a site-specific rescue plan.  
• Train an in-house rescue team or contract professionals.  
• Equip teams with proper gear, like harnesses and breathing apparatuses.  
• Example: A grain silo rescue failed when untrained workers entered without air supply, leading to two fatalities. 

5. Improper Ventilation 

Violation: Failing to ventilate confined spaces.
Poor ventilation traps toxic gases or depletes oxygen. This violation contributes to 40% of confined space injuries. 

How to Avoid:  

• Use mechanical ventilation systems, like blowers, to circulate air.  
• Monitor air quality continuously during entry and during performance of the work. 
• Stop work if ventilation fails and evacuate the confined space. 
• Example: A brewery worker survived a CO2 buildup because a fan system kept air flowing.

Real-World Example: A Costly Violation

In 2021, a Midwest manufacturing plant faced a $50,000 OSHA fine for confined space violations. Workers entered a mixing tank without a permit or hazard assessment. The tank contained nitrogen gas, which displaced oxygen. One worker collapsed, and a second attempted a rescue without proper gear, i.e. SCBA. Both survived, but the incident highlighted multiple failures: no training, no ventilation, and no rescue plan. The company later invested in confined space entry safety training and equipment to prevent future incidents. The cost of online training such as this course pales in comparison to that of fines, or worker injury: https://trainingsource.ca/courses/confined-space-entry-monitor/

Why Do Confined Space Violations Persist?

Despite clear confined space entry regulations, violations continue. Why? Some employers prioritize speed over safety. Others lack awareness of hazards. Workers may feel pressured to skip steps. What would it take for your workplace to achieve zero confined space violations? Addressing this question can spark meaningful change.

Practical Steps for Confined Space Entry Safety

To comply with confined space entry regulations and protect workers:  

• Invest in Technology: Use portable gas monitors and communication devices. The latter are available with intrinsically safe specs if required at slightly higher cost. 
• Foster a Safety Culture: Encourage workers to report unsafe conditions.  
• Audit Regularly: Review permit systems and training programs annually.  

Learn from Incidents: Analyze near-misses to improve processes.

FAQs:

Key Takeaways

• Assess and Prepare: Always identify confined space hazards and secure permits before entry.
• Train and Equip: Regular training and proper gear save lives.
• Plan for Emergencies: A well-executed rescue plan prevents tragedies. 
  By prioritizing confined space entry safety, employers can protect workers and avoid costly violations. Start today. Review your confined space protocols and commit to zero violations.