What does atmospheric testing involve?

Atmospheric testing is a crucial component of safety practices when working in confined spaces. It specifically involves testing the air quality within these spaces to ensure that it is safe for entry. This includes measuring oxygen levels to make sure they are adequate for human occupancy, as well as detecting the presence of harmful gases that could pose a risk to workers, such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, or volatile organic compounds.

Understanding air quality is essential because even a small deficiency in oxygen or a concentration of toxic gases can lead to serious health issues or fatalities. This practice ensures that workers are entering a space where the atmosphere is within acceptable safety limits, and it helps employers comply with OSHA regulations that are designed to protect workers' health and safety in confined environments.