A confined space entry permit is required for a 10-foot deep utility vault that contains electrical equipment. The space has natural ventilation and normal oxygen levels. Why is a permit still required?
Correct Answer
D) The space has limited means of egress
A permit-required confined space has limited means of entry/egress and is not designed for continuous occupancy. Even with good ventilation and oxygen levels, the configuration of the space itself makes it permit-required.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
CORRECT_ANSWER - A confined space becomes permit-required when it has limited or restricted means for entry or exit, regardless of other conditions. The 10-foot deep utility vault inherently restricts egress because workers cannot simply walk out - they must climb or be assisted to exit. OSHA defines permit-required confined spaces based on configuration and access limitations, not just atmospheric hazards. Even with good ventilation and normal oxygen levels, the physical configuration of the space itself triggers the permit requirement.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: The space is deeper than 8 feet
While 10 feet is significant depth, there is no specific 8-foot depth threshold in OSHA regulations that automatically triggers permit requirements. The permit requirement is based on the space's configuration and egress limitations, not a specific depth measurement.
Option B: Electrical equipment creates a potential hazard
Although electrical equipment can create potential hazards, the presence of electrical equipment alone does not automatically make a space permit-required. The permit requirement is primarily driven by the space's physical configuration and egress limitations, not the type of equipment present.
Option C: All utility vaults require permits regardless of conditions
Not all utility vaults automatically require permits regardless of conditions. Each space must be evaluated based on OSHA's specific criteria for permit-required confined spaces, including configuration, atmospheric hazards, and engulfment potential.
Memory Technique
Use 'EXIT' - if Emergency eXIT is Impaired or Takes effort, permit required. Focus on egress difficulty, not just hazards present.
Reference Hint
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.95 or Florida Building Code Chapter 33 - Safeguards During Construction, confined space entry procedures
More Project Mgmt Questions
What is the minimum R-value required for wall insulation in Florida Climate Zone 2?
A subcontractor brings a new chemical product to your jobsite. Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), what information must be immediately available to workers?
A construction site has a trench that is 8 feet deep in Type B soil. What is the maximum allowable slope ratio for the trench walls without protective systems?
A detail drawing shows a scale of 3/4" = 1'-0". If a dimension measures 2.25 inches on the drawing, what is the actual dimension?
What is the maximum recommended spacing between drywall screws when attaching to wood studs?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass
Previous Question
A contractor is considering tilt-up construction for a warehouse project. What is the primary advantage of this construction method?
Next Question
A mobile crane with a 150-foot boom is operating near overhead power lines carrying 50,000 volts. What is the minimum required clearance distance?