Hach-Lange Sigma SD900 Portable - Manual (Page 14)

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General Information
2.1.3 Confined space precautions
Important Note: The following information is provided to guide
users of Sigma SD900 Portable Samplers on the dangers and risks
associated with entry into confined spaces.
On April 15, 1993, OSHA's final ruling on CFR 1910.146, Permit
Required Confined Spaces, became law. This new standard directly
affects more than 250,000 industrial sites in the U.S.A. and was
created to protect the health and safety of workers in confined
spaces.
Definition of a confined space
A confined space is any location or enclosure that presents or has
the immediate potential to present one or more of the following
conditions:
• An atmosphere with less than 19.5% or greater than 23.5%
oxygen and/or more than 10 ppm Hydrogen Sulfide (H
2
S).
• An atmosphere that may be flammable or explosive due to
gases, vapors, mists, dusts or fibers.
• Toxic materials which upon contact or inhalation, could result in
injury, impairment of health or death.
Confined spaces are not designed for human occupancy. They
have restricted entry and contain known or potential hazards.
Examples of confined spaces include manholes, stacks, pipes,
vats, switch vaults, and other similar locations.
Standard safety procedures must always be followed prior to entry
into confined spaces and/or locations where hazardous gases,
vapors, mists, dusts or fibers may be present. Before entering any
confined space check with your employer for procedures related to
confined space entry.