New OSHA rule on confined space hazards
A new OSHA rule on confined space hazards to protect employees in the construction industry is expected to be finalized in March.
The new regulation requires employers to first determine whether there is a confined space at a jobsite. If there is a confined space, the employer must determine if there are existing or potential hazards in the space.
If there are confined space hazards, the employer must classify the space as
- Isolated-Hazard Confined Space,
- Controlled-Atmosphere Confined Space,
- Permit-Required Confined Space or
- Continuous System-Permit-Required Confined Space.
The requirements for each type of confined space are included in the new rule.
OSHA says, if implemented properly, the new rule will reduce the average number of fatalities and injuries in confined spaces covered by the standard by about 90 percent. For more information, visit