According to a 2020 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1,030 workers lost their lives in confined spaces between 2011 and 2018. These tragic incidents underscore the importance of rigorous safety protocols and awareness. Several key factors contribute to the risks associated with confined space work, including the presence of flammable volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contractor safety and selection, and strict adherence to OSHA regulations.
Coating projects inside tanks are examples of confined space projects that require worker protection.
Selecting contractors that prioritize safety is a critical part of coating in confined spaces.
Managing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile organic compounds (or VOCs) are organic chemicals with high vapor pressure at room temperature, making them prone to rapid evaporation into the air. Many coatings contain flammable VOCs such as toluene, xylene, acetone, and MEK, which pose serious fire and health hazards.
To mitigate these risks, Advanced FRP offers zero-VOC products, providing a safer alternative for confined space applications.
Ensuring Contractor Safety and Selection
Contractor safety starts with qualification before work begins. Contractor qualification programs must include several essential elements:
Thorough and obligatory safety audits
Ongoing training and compliance systems, before and during work
Clear and continuous communication of expectations, especially in writing
Work-in-progress assessments to enforce accountability
Without a contractor qualification program, it is more difficult to enforce consistent standards and ensure unwavering worker protection. It is also easier for contractors to meet expectations if those expectations are communicated early and enforced consistently.
Ventilation, fire protection systems, and material care are all part of protecting worker safety.
Compliance with OSHA Regulations
While working in confined spaces, keep in mind these key OSHA regulations:
29 CFR 1910.124 – Governs dipping and coating operations, emphasizing proper ventilation to maintain vapor concentrations below 25% of the lower flammable limit and mandates exposure control.
29 CFR 1910.146 – Addresses permit-required confined spaces, requiring atmospheric testing for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic substances, along with forced air ventilation.
29 CFR 1910.125 – Focuses on flammable or combustible liquids in coating operations, mandating ignition source control, fire protection systems, and temperature regulation of liquids to prevent hazardous conditions.
By proactively addressing these areas, organizations can significantly reduce the risks associated with confined space work and protect the lives of their workers.
Protect Worker Safety While Coating in Confined Spaces
According to a 2020 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1,030 workers lost their lives in confined spaces between 2011 and 2018. These tragic incidents underscore the importance of rigorous safety protocols and awareness. Several key factors contribute to the risks associated with confined space work, including the presence of flammable volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contractor safety and selection, and strict adherence to OSHA regulations.
Managing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile organic compounds (or VOCs) are organic chemicals with high vapor pressure at room temperature, making them prone to rapid evaporation into the air. Many coatings contain flammable VOCs such as toluene, xylene, acetone, and MEK, which pose serious fire and health hazards.
To mitigate these risks, Advanced FRP offers zero-VOC products, providing a safer alternative for confined space applications.
Ensuring Contractor Safety and Selection
Contractor safety starts with qualification before work begins. Contractor qualification programs must include several essential elements:
Without a contractor qualification program, it is more difficult to enforce consistent standards and ensure unwavering worker protection. It is also easier for contractors to meet expectations if those expectations are communicated early and enforced consistently.
Compliance with OSHA Regulations
While working in confined spaces, keep in mind these key OSHA regulations:
By proactively addressing these areas, organizations can significantly reduce the risks associated with confined space work and protect the lives of their workers.
Learn more about how we design our products with contractors in mind, including for protecting work.