Outside Helper

A worker must be stationed on the outside of such confined spaces to ensure the safety of those working within where welding operations are carried on in confined spaces and where welders and helpers are provided with hose masks, hose masks with blowers, or self-contained breathing equipment approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration and NIOSH.

Where a welder must enter a confined space through a manhole or other small opening, his or her fast removal from the area must be ensured. When safety belts and lifelines are used for this purpose they must be attached to the welder so that his body cannot be jammed in the small exit opening. The outside helper is responsible for observing the welder at all times and must have a plan for rescue procedures in a worst case scenario.

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