Can a worker enter a confined space alone?

A worker cannot enter a confined space alone unless safety measures are in place because OSHA regulations emphasize the importance of safety protocols in potentially hazardous environments. The presence of safety measures ensures that there are protocols for surveillance, communication, and emergency rescue plans.

Confined spaces often present unpredictable risks such as poor air quality, limited accessibility, or hazardous conditions that might arise unexpectedly. By requiring safety measures—such as having another qualified person outside of the space to monitor the situation and provide assistance if needed—OSHA aims to reduce the risk of incidents and ensure that rescue can occur swiftly if something goes wrong. This precaution helps protect the worker from serious injury or fatalities while emphasizing the shared responsibility for safety in confined space work.

In this context, while proper training is crucial for the worker entering the space, it is not sufficient on its own without the appropriate safety measures in place to mitigate risks associated with confined space entry.