Small Contractors Say Proposed Confined Space Work Rule Too Expensive

Comment period extended through February 28

Utility contractors and others have raised concerns about the proposed changes to OSHA's confined space rule for construction in small spaces, saying it is both costly and confusing. The rule, published in the Federal Register on Nov. 28, will require contractors to classify spaces by the type of hazard they represent. The four types of confined spaces in the proposed rule are: continuous-system permit-required spaces (CS-PRCS); permit-required spaces; controlled-atmosphere spaces; and isolated hazard spaces. The existing general industry rule has only two classifications-confined space and permit-required confined space.

The comment period, which was originally scheduled to end on January 28, was extended until February 28. OSHA indicates that all of the comments it has received thus far are critical of the changes with those affected stating that it is "not clear which classification should be used at which site" and that the "new requirements will cause an enormous amount of recordkeeping for training that will result in financial hardship to all employers without increasing employee safety."

For further information: http://www.osha.gov