Recent online reports on confined space entry discuss challenges faced in California winemaking, Australian confined space regulations, and the proper equipment for vertical and horizontal confined space entries.
1. California wineries have been cited frequently by Cal OSHA for failure to develop or implement a permit-required confined space program. Wineries with permit-required confined spaces must have a written confined space program that addresses who can enter permit spaces, the hazards to which employees may be exposed, and how these spaces can be entered safely. Importantly, this standard requires a permit for entry and that permit procedure must be addressed in the written program.
2. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) officers review confined space entry and rescue procedures in Australia. The agency has world-class confined space training facilities to ensure safe and controlled training environments. QFES has developed specific industry based programs in confined space entry procedures and confined space rescue. These programs are nationally recognized and meet the requirements of the Australian Standard.
3. MSA officials discussed XTIRPA Confined Space Entry Systems that allow for vertical or horizontal entry into common confined space applications, including tanks, vessels, transformers, sewers, and manholes. Systems are lightweight, portable, and easy to set up. They provide fall protection when a portable base is needed, allowing users to save time.