Can a space that is initially designed for continuous human occupancy become a “confined space” because of changes in its use?
If the changes alter the character of the space or if new or more serious hazards are introduced, those changes require reevaluation of whether the space is fit for continuous employee occupancy. If the space is not fit for continuous employee occupancy and the other criteria of the confined space definition are met, the space should be reclassified as a confined space. 9. Does the characteristic “contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere” in the definition of “permit-required confined space” refer only to those atmospheres which pose an acute hazard? Where employees are exposed to atmospheric or toxic hazards which do not present an immediate danger of death or disability that would render the employee unable to escape from the confined space e.g., air contaminants such as arsenic or asbestos) OSHA’s health standards for those hazards apply rather than 1910.146, and employees must be appropriately protected in accordance with those health standards. The PRCS standa
