ANSI, Z117.1: Confined Space Standard Flashcards
Testing should be conducted to identify hazardous atmospheres before entry is permitted into a confined space. What tests should be conducted? In what order should the tests be performed? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section E6.1)
- Oxygen
- Combustible and Flammability
- Toxic Atmosphere
What are acceptable limits of oxygen, flammability, and toxicity within a confined space? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section 6.3.1.1 to 6.3.1.3))
a) Oxygen: above 19.5%
b) Flammability: less than or equal to 10% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)
c) Toxicity: less than recognized exposure limits for specific product being exposed to
When an employer arranges to have employees of another employer (contractor) perform work that requires confined space entry, what information must the employer give the contractor about the confined space? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section 17.1)
a) The classification of the space (permit or non-permit);
b) Hazards and operations within or near the space;
c) The employer’s experience with the space;
d) Any precautions or procedures that the host employer had implemented for the precaution of employees in or near the confined space when contractor personnel will be working.
What are the characteristics of a confined space? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section 2.5)
a) Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work;
b) Has limited or restricted means for entry and exit; and
c) Is not designed for or meant to be continuously occupied by employees
What is the definition of a hazardous atmosphere? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section 2.14)
A hazardous atmosphere is an atmosphere that may be, or is, injurious to occupents by reason of:
a) Oxygen deficiency or enrichment;
b) Flammability or explosivity; or
c) Toxicity
What is the definition of a permit required confined space? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section 2.24)
A permit required confined space:
a) Contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere;
b) Contains a material with the potential to engulf an entrant;
c) Has an internal configuration such that an entrant could become trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by floors that slope downward tapering to smaller cross-sections;
d) Contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.
What is the definition of qualified person? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section 2.26)
A person who by reason of training, education and experience is knowledgeable in the operation to be performed and is competent to judge the hazards involved and to specify controls and/or protective measures.
What conditions can cause confined spaces to become unsafe? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section E3.2)
a) Possible atmospheric contamination by toxic or flammable vapors, or oxygen deficiency or excess;
b) Possible physical hazards;
c) The possibility of liquids, gases, or solids being introduced to the space during occupancy;
d) The isolation of occupants from rescue personnel; or
e) Presence of radiation sources.
What six factors should be considered when performing the hazard identification process? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section 3.2.1 to 3.2.6)
a) The past and current uses of the confined space which may adversely affect the atmosphere of the confined space;
b) The physical characteristics, configuration, and location of the confined space;
c) Existing or potential atmospheric hazards (oxygen, flammability, and toxicity)
d) Biological hazards;
e) Mechanical hazards;
f) Physical hazards; and
g) Chemical hazards.
What is the intent of the permit system for confined space entry? (ANSI, Z117.1-2016. Section E5.1)
The confined space permit system is to provide a systematic review for hazards, communicate this information to all those involved, and provide an approval process for confined space entry.
