A confined space is any enclosed area with the following characteristics:

• Limited means of entry or exit
• Structure that is not designed for extended human occupation
• Atmosphere that is actually or potentially hazardous
• Potential for other hazards

Because confined spaces offer limited means of entry or exit and may contain hazards, employees must comply with 29 CFR 1910.146 and the Texas State University - San Marcos Confined Space Entry Program when working in these areas. The Confined Space Entry Program is available from the Facilities Department.

Most confined spaces are actually or potentially hazardous. These confined spaces require work permits because they have one or more of the following:

• Hazardous atmosphere or the potential to contain hazardous atmosphere
• Materials that could engulf workers
• Internal structure or contents that could trap or asphyxiate employees
• Other recognizable hazards

Types of Confined Spaces

Examples of confined spaces include the following:

• Manholes
• Crawl spaces
• Tunnels
• Tanks
• Trenches

Definitions

• Confined Space:
   Any enclosed space with limited means of entry or egress, which is not designed for continuous occupation.

• Permit-Required Confined Space:
   Confined space that contains actually or potentially hazardous atmosphere, or the potential for engulfment by    particulate matter or liquid.

• Entry:
   Physical act of entering a confined space. An entry occurs when a worker's face breaks the plane of the    confined space opening.

• Authorized Entrants:
   Properly trained workers with the authorization to enter confined spaces.

• Authorized Attendant:
   Properly trained worker who is positioned outside a confined space. This person monitors the entrants within a    confined space and the external surroundings.

• Person Authorizing Entry:
   Worker who is properly trained in administrative, technical, and managerial aspects of confined space entry.    This person authorizes entry and has the authority to terminate entry when conditions become unfavorable.

• Hazardous Atmosphere:
   Atmosphere that is oxygen enriched, oxygen deficient, combustible, toxic, or otherwise immediately dangerous    to life or health.

• Hotwork:
   Operations that could provide a source of ignition, such as riveting, welding, cutting, burning, or heating.