What Is A Confined Work Space? Confined spaces are any work environments that restrict employee movement. In some cases, permits are required when workers must move through narrow openings and perform duties while confined to small areas. Employees may be in danger when performing assignments in the following spaces: - Tunnels;
- Wells;
- Manholes;
- Ship holds;
- Subcellars;
- Tanks;
- Vaults; and
- Silos.
What Can Happen In A Confined Work Space? Dangerously confined spaces can lead to employee injuries, and even death. Some of the hazards that arise as a result of confined work spaces include: Is It Always Dangerous To Work In A Confined Space? While not all confined spaces are problematic, certain areas should be approached with extra care and concern. In some instances, employment conditions will always be extremely dangerous and potentially lethal. However, some disasters occur in seemingly safe places. Due to the high risk of confined spaces, workers and employers should err on the side of caution and know how to effectively respond during an emergency.
Is My Employer Responsible For My Injury In A Confined Space?Under regulations set by the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration, employers are responsible for providing workspaces that are free from hazards that cause (or are likely to cause) death or serious physical harm to employees. Your employer made be responsible for your injury if it fails to: - Conduct the proper tests;
- Follow correct testing procedures;
- Hold a permit for entrance to the confined space, if necessary.
Furthermore, if you work in a specialized area, such as construction or a shipyard, your employer is subject to additional rules regarding your health and safety.
Do I Need A Lawyer? If you are concerned about the precautions your employer is taking while you are performing a work-related task in a confined space or if you have been injured while working in a confined space, you should speak with an attorney. An experienced employment lawyer or workers compensation lawyer will be able to answer the questions you have about your work situation and inform you of your rights under federal and state laws.
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