CHECKLIST OF UNSAFE CRAWL SPACE
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CRAWL SPACES
Often, when we hear about crawlspaces, we may think of dark and musty holes full of mold and ruined items. And undoubtedly, once mold has infested any home, it can be difficult to eliminate. Also, crawlspace mold can get worse than mold in other areas. This is because crawlspaces offer dark and humid environments that enhance the living conditions of these organisms. Since mold thrives in wet and dark areas, most crawlspaces are hospitable to mold and mildew.
CONFINED SPACES According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), confined spaces are large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work. On the other hand, given these conditions, confined spaces may be considered hazardous and permit-required areas.
CRAWL SPACES ARE CONFINED SPACES Crawlspaces can be defined as confined areas because they may contain a hazardous atmosphere and other “recognized serious safety or health hazard.� Likewise, since crawlspaces can be considered a confined space, supervised entry is required. It means that the person in charge must determine if acceptable entry conditions exist inside the area or otherwise make recommendations for remediation.
COMMON HAZARDS IN CRAWLSPACES Risks of electrical shocks derived from the use of electrical equipment in wet conditions Risks of electrocution because of unprotected and loose wires Standing water that enhances the risk of electrocution Poor lighting A structural collapse that can lead to accidents Asbestos insulation and other toxic materials
PESTS
Pests love dirty crawl spaces, and they can be vectors for many diseases. For example, rodents and their urine and droppings may infect people with hantavirus. Likewise, other pests such as termites and carpenter ants could cause expensive structural damage to your home, increasing the risks inside a confined space within the house.
For further information, call the professionals on crawl space waterproofing in Charlotte, NC.
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