Confined Spaces
Many workplace areas contain areas that are considered "confined spaces" because while
they are not necessarily designed for people, they are large enough for workers to
perform certain tasks. A confined space also has limited or restricted means for entry
or exit and is not designed for continuous occupancy. Confined spaces include, but
are not limited to, tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, pits, manholes,
tunnels, equipment housings, duct work, pipelines, etc.
The University shall evaluate the workplace to determine if any spaces are permit-required
confined spaces, as defined in the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) standards.
For OSHA Permit-Required Confined Spaces, various control measures are required, including
preventing unauthorized entry, and training and protecting authorized workers from
confined space hazards.
Resources & Forms
Confined Space Entry Permit
Confined Space Decision Flowchart
OSHA - Confined Spaces
OSHA - Permit-Required Confined Spaces
Training
Employees must complete training before they are first assigned duties in permit-required
confined spaces. Employees must undergo refresher/additional training before any change
in assigned duties; whenever modifications in permit space operations introduce new
hazards unknown to the employee; and if the employer suspects deviations from permit
space entry procedures or deficiencies in the employee's knowledge or application
of these procedures.
Assignment of this online safety course is overseen by the EHS Coordinator and accessible through the online HSI/SafetySkills Learning Management System. A TCU email address and ID is required for access. For further information on training, please contact safety@tcu.edu or 817-257-7220.
OSHA - Confined Spaces - HSI-193
This online course presents the hazards posed by confined spaces and the difference
between a permit required confined space and a non-permit required confined space.