Safety Tidbit #43 – PRCS - Use of forced air to reduce atmospheric hazards

Safety Tidbit #43 – PRCS - Use of forced air to reduce atmospheric hazards

Can I reduce my PRCS requirements by using forced air in my permit-required space since the only hazard is a hazardous atmosphere and I think I can blow that away?  The good news according to OSHA’s Permit-Required Confined Space standard [1910.146(c)(5)(i)] is that you may do that. However, a few items need to be in place. First, you need to demonstrate that continuous forced air ventilation alone is sufficient to maintain the space safe for entry [146(c)(5)(i)(B)]. Second, develop a monitoring and inspection data to support that the space is safe [146(c)(5)(i)(C)]. And third, when your workers do enter they must be appropriately protected [146(c)(5)(i)(F)].

The appropriate protection involves the following: test the atmosphere for oxygen content, flammable gasses, and then toxic gasses before any worker goes into the space [146(c)(5)(ii)(C)]. No worker be within the space if there is a hazardous atmosphere [146(c)(5)(ii)(D)]. Clean, fresh forced air can be used to render the space clear [146(c)(5)(ii)(E)]. Also, the atmosphere must be tested periodically to ensure the forced air is still effective.

So, although you don’t need to comply with paragraphs (d) through (f) and (h) through (k) you still have quite a bit of preplanning and evaluation to perform. Also, although not specifically required by OSHA, remember if something goes wrong you need to be able to get the worker out of the space.  So please plan ahead.  If you wish to rely on the local fire department, it is best to coordinate with them ahead of time to make sure they have the necessary equipment to rescue a worker from your confined space.  Lastly, contact the fire department before entry to alert them and have them on standby.  The last thing you need if you must rescue a worker is the PR nightmare from a bunch of flashing lights and sirens coming to your facility.  Also, once the call goes on the dispatch airwaves, the media may decide to investigate. Being on the evening news because of poor prior planning probably is not the publicity you want.

Thanks for reading and I hope this was helpful.  ~Bryan