Confined Space Incidents and Statistics

Over 500 fatalities within confined spaces occurred between 1992 and 2003, or approximately 50 deaths per year. Approximately 30% of these fatalities have occurred in a space that was tested and found to be safe to enter. Additionally, 10% of fatal incidents involved rescue. Analysis of fatalities within confined spaces shows that the primary causes of death include:

• Oxygen deficiencies
• Fire and explosions
• High levels of toxic chemicals
• Engulfment from liquids and flowable solids
• Configuration hazards
• Other - electrical energy, explosions, and machinery

Asphyxiation is the leading cause of death in confined spaces, followed by flammable environments and engulfment, with engulfment meaning that the worker is entrapped by the contents of a confined space. OSHA estimates that compliance with the regulations will avoid 53 worker deaths, 4,900 lost-workday cases, and 5,700 non lost-time accidents annually. To increase safety and decrease potential for injuries or fatal accidents, you and your team must be properly trained and knowledgeable of hazards within confined spaces.

To learn more visit our Confined Space Online Training web page.