Describe the basic hazard categories associated with confined space

Hazardous air conditions such as:

• Too little oxygen
• Too much oxygen
• Flammable atmospheres, such as from methane or solvents
• Airborne combustion from dust or explosive gases
• Toxic chemicals such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, or solvents
• Welding fumes

Physical hazards such as:

• Solid materials than can engulf and suffocate an entrant (loose material such as sand, grain, silage, sawdust, coal)
• Liquid materials that can engulf and drown an entrant (water, sewerage)
• Space configurations that can trap an entrant (inwardly converging walls, sloping floors)
• Mechanical apparatus (gears, conveyors, mulchers)
• Electrical power
• Temperature extremes
• Poor visibility, lack of lighting
• Falling objects that can strike workers
• Fall and trip hazards (from lack of firm footing, obstacles, slick surfaces)
• Other hazards that would make escape or rescue from the area difficult