Industry News

NECA Releases New Confined Space Safety Guidelines

May 22, 2002

Bethesda, MD - Confined Space Entry Guidelines (2002) has just been issued by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). It is the latest in a series of safety publications and services that help electrical contractors protect their workers on the jobsite, while complying with regulations of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).So-called "confined spaces" range from manholes and tunnels, to crawl spaces under buildings, to crowded electrical equipment closets. These locations present particular safety problems caused by lack of mobility, reduced communications with other workers, and the difficulty of exiting quickly in an emergency. Sometimes the potential problems of confined spaces are further complicated by factors such as the need for artificial ventilation.Confined Space Entry Guidelines (2002) is intended to help electrical contractors comply with applicable OSHA regulations and customer requirements, as well as developing their own company programs to ensure employee safety when working in confined spaces. It provides comprehensive information about the following: o OSHA Part 1910 and 1926 standards, policies, and interpretationso Confined space hazards and accident causeso Sample task-specific confined space entry procedureso Safety training program requirementso Records and documentationo Exhibits, definitions, references, and more"The relatively high number of confined space deaths for industry workers and their would-be rescuers is readily preventable," said David L. Potts, NECA's director of safety and insurance programs. "Through establishing well-planned work procedures, even harsh and hazardous enclosed environments can be made safe for productive maintenance and construction work. This new NECA publications offers guidelines to help make this possible."Confined Space Entry Guidelines (2002) is a loose-leaf binder of more than 100 pages. It includes prepared forms and checklists, and allows additions and deletions to be made as needed to match specific company needs.Ordering information. Confined Space Entry Guidelines (2002) is priced at $45, with NECA-member and quantity discounts available. Contact the NECA Order Desk at (301) 215-4504 tel, (301) 215-4500 fax, or [email protected] and request Index No. 5090. Provide your name, company, mailing address and NECA member number (where applicable). All non-member orders must be prepaid by check or credit card. NECA publications can also be ordered online at www.necanet.org/pubs.