Request for Assistance in Preventing Occupational Fatalities in Confined Spaces

NIOSH requests the assistance of managers, supervisors, and workers in the prevention of deaths that occur in confined spaces. Confined spaces may be encountered in virtually any occupation; therefore, their recognition is the first step in preventing fatalities. Since deaths in confined spaces often occur because the atmosphere is oxygen deficient or toxic, confined spaces should be tested prior to entry and continually monitored. More than 60% of confined space fatalities occur among would-be rescuers; therefore, a well-designed and properly executed rescue plan is a must. This Alert describes 16 deaths that occurred in a variety of confined spaces. Had these spaces been properly evaluated prior to entry and continuously monitored while the work was being performed and had appropriate rescue procedures been in effect, none of the 16 deaths would have occurred.

Preventing Occupational Fatalities in Confined Spaces