Cal/OSHA Launched a Statewide Confined Space Special Emphasis Initiative

Earlier this year, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) launched a statewide Confined Space Special Emphasis Initiative to focus attention on preventing worker deaths and injuries in confined spaces. The Initiative is the result of a dramatic increase in deaths, up to seven in 2011, in confined spaces.

A confined space is generally defined as one that (1) is large enough and configured so that an employee can bodily enter and perform work; (2) has limited openings for entry and exit; and (3) is not designed for continuous occupancy. A few examples of confined spaces include manholes, boilers, vaults and utility tunnels.

Employers are advised to evaluate their properties for confined spaces because they can be certain that any inspection by Cal/OSHA will include a check for confined spaces. To learn more about confined space, please review the Confined Space Hazard Alert, an online aid in identifying confined spaces and protect workers. If you need further assistance, please contact Citadel Environmental Services. We provide assistance with Cal/OSHA needs assessments, including online and in-class training in Confined Space as well as many other programs.

Source: Fox Rothschild LLP