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Perform OSHA Confined Spaces Inspection using eAuditor

OSHA Confined Spaces Inspection refers to the evaluation and assessment process conducted to ensure compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations related to confined spaces in workplaces. OSHA defines a confined space as a space that:

1. Is large enough for a worker to enter and perform work.
2. Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit.
3. Is not designed for continuous occupancy.

Some confined spaces, known as permit-required confined spaces (permit spaces), may have additional hazards, such as hazardous atmospheres, engulfment risks, or other serious safety concerns, requiring stricter controls and entry protocols.

Conducting an OSHA Confined Spaces Inspection using eAuditor involves leveraging the platform’s digital tools to efficiently identify, document, and address confined space hazards. Here’s a step-by-step guide to perform the inspection:

1. Prepare for the Inspection

• Download or Create a Template: Use a pre-built OSHA Confined Spaces checklist on eAuditor or create your own tailored to the specific confined space being inspected. Include sections for hazard identification, permits, PPE, atmospheric testing, and emergency planning.
• Gather Necessary Tools: Ensure you have atmospheric testing devices, inspection permits, and safety equipment like gloves, harnesses, and respirators.
• Familiarize Yourself with OSHA Standards: Review the relevant OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.146 or 1926 Subpart AA) to ensure compliance.

2. Identify and Document Confined Spaces

• List Confined Spaces: Use eAuditor to create an inventory of confined spaces in the work area.
• Categorize Spaces: Identify which spaces are permit-required and note their specific hazards (e.g., oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, engulfment risks).

3. Conduct the Inspection

Hazard Assessment

• Use eAuditor to assess for hazards like:
  • Atmospheric risks (low oxygen, toxic gases, or flammable vapors).
  • Physical risks (engulfment, entrapment, or falling objects).
  • Structural issues or inadequate ventilation.
• Document findings with photos, videos, and notes directly in eAuditor.

Permit Compliance

• Verify that permit-required confined spaces have proper permits, with details like:
  • Identified hazards.
  • Safety measures in place.
  • Names of authorized personnel and supervisors.
• Record compliance status in the app.

Atmospheric Testing

• Use atmospheric testing devices to check for:
  • Oxygen levels (19.5%–23.5%).
  • Flammable gases (below the lower explosive limit).
  • Toxic substances (below permissible exposure limits).
• Log readings in eAuditor for each space.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Check if workers have the correct PPE for the identified hazards (e.g., respirators, gloves, and harnesses).
• Document missing or inadequate equipment.

Signage and Entry Points

• Inspect entry points for proper warning signage, restricted access, and safe entry/exit routes.
• Take photos of signage and access points for records.

Emergency and Rescue Readiness

• Verify that an emergency plan is in place, rescue teams are trained, and equipment (e.g., retrieval systems, tripods) is available.
• Log details and any deficiencies in the app.

4. Provide Findings and Recommendations

• Generate a Report: Use eAuditor’s automatic reporting feature to compile findings into a professional report, including photos, data, and corrective actions.
• Highlight Non-Compliances: Identify areas needing immediate attention or improvements.
• Assign Corrective Actions: Assign tasks to team members with deadlines for resolving issues directly in eAuditor.

5. Follow-Up

• Monitor Progress: Use eAuditor to track the status of corrective actions.
• Reinspect if Necessary: Schedule follow-up inspections to ensure all issues are resolved.
• Maintain Records: Store completed inspections and reports in eAuditor’s cloud-based system for future audits and compliance reviews.

This systematic approach ensures that all confined space hazards are addressed efficiently, and OSHA compliance is maintained while leveraging eAuditor’s robust digital capabilities.

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