Configuration Hazards

Configuration hazards include piping, sloping floors, tunnels, blades, and anything obstructive within the confined space. 1926 Subpart AA requires a certified competent person to identify and catalog these hazards before a permit is granted. Employers must then eliminate these hazards if possible. If elimination is impossible, employers must provide personal protective equipment to protect against any remaining hazards.

Physical Configuration Hazards

The use of ladders and scaffolding, poor lighting, and bends in tunnels and narrow areas can be physical hazards to entrants. If you are an entrant, ensure that precautions, such as fall protection and good lighting, are in place to prevent physical hazards. If you are an attendant, ensure that your entrant has taken the necessary precautions throughout the entry process.

Mechanical Configuration Hazards

Mechanical hazards, which include things like blades or falling objects, can present serious hazards to entrants. One of the new regulations requires employers to coordinate activities in different areas. This is to prevent workers on the surface from accidentally creating hazards for those in a confined space. Other mechanical hazards can include entanglement, crushing, cutting, piercing, or shearing of parts of a person's body. These hazards can be avoided through inspection prior to entry and continuous housekeeping.

To learn more about Confined Spaces visit our Construction Confined Spaces Online Training web page.