What is a "permit-required confined space"?

A "permit-required confined space" is defined by the combination of criteria that address safety concerns when workers need to enter spaces that are not designed for continuous occupancy. This definition incorporates multiple aspects of confined spaces that, when evaluated together, necessitate a permit system to ensure safety.

First, the space must qualify as a "confined space," meaning it is large enough for a worker to enter but has limited entry or exit points, and it is not designed for continuous human occupation. This foundational aspect sets the stage for addressing what makes such spaces potentially dangerous.

Second, the presence of hazards or the possibility that hazards could develop within the confined space elevates the requirement for monitoring and control measures. These hazards may include toxic gases, oxygen deficiency, or physical dangers such as engulfment or entrapment. Understanding this aspect highlights why additional precautions must be taken when working in these environments.

Finally, the necessity to enter the space to perform certain jobs further emphasizes the risks associated with confined space work. When operations or maintenance tasks require entry into these environments, it inherently introduces a risk factor that needs to be managed through a formal permit process.

When all these criteria are considered together, the classification of a "permit-required confined space" becomes clear, and it underscores