Confined Space Information

SAFETY INFORMATION
CONFINED SPACE ENTRY

The Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration (OSHA) regulations, Section 1910

The interior of many dyeing/drying machines should be classified as "PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACE." This means that you are required to properly protect workers from entering without the proper training, equipment and procedures. This article cannot properly cover all of the aspects of OSHA 1910, therefore if your company does not already have a confined space program, we urge you to implement one as soon as possible or you could risk significant fines if found to be non-compliant.

Typically, when entering a vessel such as a dyeing machine, you must:

	Fill out an entry permit
	Lock out / tag out all energy sources
	Test the air in the confined space for oxygen level and hazardous gas level
	Assign a supervisor to remain outside and monitor the activities and air quality during confined space entry
	Equip workers with safety rescue equipment and train them how to use it
	Provide ventilation within the confined workspace
	Confirm that rescue services are readily available (medical and firefighter)

Additional regulations apply if performing "hot" work such as welding. More information can be found at the website of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.