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Many work spaces at Harvard University are considered "confined" because their configurations may hinder the activities of employees who must enter, work in, and exit them. For example, employees who work in certain confined spaces must squeeze in and out through narrow openings and may perform their tasks while cramped or contorted. OSHA uses the term "confined space" to describe such spaces.
Entry into confined spaces may present a variety of hazards to Harvard University employees. In addition, there are many instances where employees who work in confined spaces face increased risk of exposure to serious hazards. In some cases, confinement itself poses entrapment hazards. In other cases, confined space work keeps employees closer to hazards, such as asphyxiating atmospheres or the moving parts of machinery. OSHA uses the term "Permit-Required Confined Space" (Permit Space) to describe those spaces which meet the definition of "confined space" and pose health or safety hazards.
A comprehensive Confined Space Entry Standard has been developed to protect Harvard University employees and provide guidance to contractors who may be required to enter confined spaces during the course of their work. Below are some useful tools, including Confined Space inventories and written procedures for safe entry and management of confined spaces.
The Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) is responsible for providing appropriate technical support to the faculties and departments covered by the Confined Space Standard. The following services are available from EH&S:
