Confined Space Fatalities

OSHA continues to report asphyxiation as the leading cause of death in confined spaces, generally resulting from oxygen deficiency or from exposure to toxic atmospheres. One of the most tragic incidents that may come to mind is the loss of the three utility-company workers who succumbed to toxic gases in a manhole back in early 2017. OSHA investigated that incident and the post-incident testing revealed lethal levels of hydrogen sulfide and carbon monoxide.

The employer was cited by OSHA for “serious violations of failing to purge or ventilate the confined space before entry, exposing their workers to an asphyxiation hazard, and not providing the necessary rescue and emergency equipment” for a permit-required confined space. Had testing and monitoring with a gas detector been in use, an alarm would have indicated danger and these three lives could have been saved.

Learn the ins-and-outs of the confined space entry standard and protect your employees from these deadly hazards. NASP has both online and live course options available to strengthen your knowledge on confined spaces.

Live: Confined Space Entry & Rescue Program Manager

Online: Confined Space Entry Specialist and Confined Space Entry Specialist – Construction