CONFINED SPACES

Superconducting Magnet Division

 

The Division shall classify confined spaces and maintain a confined space entry program for employee safety.

I. CLASSIFICATION OF CONFINED SPACES

    1. A confined space is defined as a workplace with a limited means of entry and exit or where ventilation may be limited such that workers are exposed to a potential chemical or physical hazard.
    2. The classification of the Confined Spaces within the Division shall be determined by the Line Supervisors, with assistance from the Safety and Health Services Division (SHSD) using SBMS Subject Area, Confined Spaces.
    3. The Division’s Confined Spaces which involve potential exposure to physical hazards:

 

Location

Class

Justification

Helium Storage Tanks
(near Building 902)

2A

It is not expected that these tanks would be entered, but any entry would involve LOTO of supply valves, extended ventilation with fresh air, testing for Oxygen content and maintaining open access to the outside.

Magnet Test Shaft
(Building 902)

2A

Testing for Oxygen content.

Vacuum Furnace
(Building 902)

2A

This is a vacuum space that is backfilled with room air, tested for Oxygen content and opened to ambient.

Argon Furnace (Building 902)

 

2A

This is a space that is backfilled with room air, tested for Oxygen content and opened to ambient.

Below the dewar access (2) Building (902)

1

No testing required.

II. REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTRY

    1. The atmosphere in all Posted (Class 2) Confined Spaces shall be tested before each entry. The Line Supervisor shall request a person qualified by SHSD to perform the appropriate selection of tests for oxygen deficiency, toxic and flammable gases before allowing an employee to enter a confined space. Calibrated instruments that have been appropriately functionally tested shall be used.
    2. The trained Line Supervisor or the ES&H Coordinator shall classify the area.
    3. Confined Space Entry Permits are required for all Class 2C Confined Spaces and shall be provided by the ES&H Coordinator. The ES&H Coordinator shall issue a permit for entry into the confined space, with concurrence by the SHSD in accordance with the SBMS Subject Area Confined Spaces. ES&H Coordinator shall maintain records of the permits.
    4. For entry into a Class 2C Confined Space, a trained attendant shall be in contact with the entrant. The attendant shall not attempt rescue unless it can be accomplished without his or her own entry.
    5. Posting and entryways that are locked or require a tool to open the passageways shall prevent unauthorized entry into confined spaces.

III. TRAINING FOR CONFINED SPACE ENTRY

    1. The Training Coordinator shall obtain and maintain training records and schedules for Confined Space Entry training from the SHSD.
    2. The Training Coordinator shall disseminate training schedules and information to Division personnel and shall schedule training upon request.
    3. Line Supervisors shall ensure that their employees are trained on the hazards of the confined spaces they may enter.

APPROVAL signature on file                                          DATE: 1/29/08

Peter Wanderer, Acting Division Head
Superconducting Magnet Division