CONFINED SPACES – HEALTH AND SAFETY
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CONFINED SPACES
Confined spaces are prone to present safety issues and have hazardous conditions that are immediately dangerous to homeowners and workers that treat them.
CRITERIA
According to organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) confined spaces are defined by the following three criteria: • They are large enough for a worker to enter it; • They have limited means of entry or exit • They are not designed for continuous occupancy
CRAWL SPACES AND ATTICS
Crawl spaces and attics are categorized as confined spaces. They may present hazards that can lead to accidents and deaths among workers and homeowners that enter them.
MANAGING PROBLEMS IN A CONFINED SPACE Homeowners and workers must be aware of the risky situation that involves managing problems in a confined space. Indeed, this situation must be considered complex. For example, poorly managed crawl spaces can cause energy loss and increased utility costs. In this matter, it is important to replace drafty windows and doors or insulate the entire area to avoid moisture problems.
SAFETY
Experts recommend do not enter confined spaces without being trained and identify any physical risks, test oxygen levels and content, flammability, toxicity, or explosive hazards as necessary. Likewise, homeowners that perform DIY tasks or professional workers should use protective wear and have communication equipment to keep in contact with a trained person.
Although most homeowners ignore the need for following some professional guides, they must take into account that confined spaces are significantly more hazardous than normal workplaces. In this sense, the risks associated with confined spaces can be exacerbated by the enclosed conditions of those areas that can result in injuries and potentially fatal accidents.
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