Working in confined spaces can be very dangerous. A confined space is an area with poor or no airflow. Examples of
confined spaces include:
- Tanks
- Bins
- Covered Pits
- Silos
Poor airflow allows accumulation of dangerous gases in confined spaces. Before a miner enters a confined space, the
atmosphere needs to be checked for adequate oxygen concentration and the accumulation of flammable or harmful gases.
MSHA has issued a hazard alert. Download the alert here (pdf).