Welding in Confined Spaces: What You Need to Know

Even the most inexperienced day laborer knows the dangers that come along with a welding job. When it comes to doing that job in a confined space, however, knowing the hazards (as well as how to prevent them) can make all the difference between a job well done and a serious injury. But what exactly constitutes a confined space? It’s any enclosed or partially enclosed area with a restricted entry, exit or limited space. Some of these spaces include:

• Tanks
• Manholes
• Storage Bins
• Ship compartments
• Ventilation Ducts
• Boilers
• Vats
• Silos

OSHA often uses the term “permit-required confined space” for spaces like these if they also have characteristics like a dangerous atmosphere, converge into an area where someone can be trapped or have exposed live wires. While a normal person may shy away from working in such a small and potentially hazardous space, welding services may still be needed whether it’s routine maintenance or necessary repair. Before starting this type of welding work, it’s very important to know what to expect.

The Potential Hazards of Welding in Confined Spaces

The Department of Labor outlines true stories that speak to the potential hazards of working in confined areas. One report is about a worker who suffered burns to his lungs while welding with a plasma cutter inside a 1000-gallon water tank because of the lack of ventilation and respiratory protection. This government agency also has a report about an employee found unconscious and later confirmed dead after welding in a stainless steel tractor-trailer tank. Lack of oxygen, fires, and inhaling toxic gases like argon and gasoline are very real dangers of welding in confined spaces. Other dangers include electrocution, exposure to radiation and even falling due to standing on unstable materials like wood chips and sawdust.

The Precautions to Take With This Type of Welding

OSHA lays out very specific regulations when it comes to welding in confined spaces. If the area can’t get proper ventilation without blocking the means of entry, welders must use airline respirators and be in constant communication with a co-worker on the outside. Another OSHA rule states that safety belts, lifelines and pre-planned rescue procedures are required if the welding work has to happen in a space with a very small entryway (like a manhole). The American Welding Society also lays out safety procedures for day laborers working in confined spaces. They include:

• Making sure there isn’t any equipment blocking the exit
• Testing the air for toxic gases before entering the workspace
• Removing all hazardous materials
• Keeping vents open and making sure valves are tight and leak-free
• Having the means to immediately shut off gases, fuel and power from inside the space if possible

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