What interior characteristic might a permit-required confined space have?

A permit-required confined space typically has interior characteristics that pose significant hazards to workers. One key characteristic is the potential for a shape or configuration that could trap or asphyxiate an individual. These spaces often have limited openings for entry and exit, and an irregular shape can make it difficult for workers to escape in an emergency or for rescuers to access a worker quickly. Such configurations increase the risk of entrapment and create a situation where oxygen levels could be dangerously low or where toxic substances may accumulate, leading to asphyxiation.

On the other hand, characteristics like high ceilings, curved surfaces, or excessive lighting do not inherently indicate the same level of risk or hazard associated with confined spaces. Although high ceilings and curved surfaces may influence the overall safety of a space, they do not directly imply the dangers associated with asphyxiation or entrapment. Excessive lighting might actually improve visibility within a confined space but does not affect the fundamental nature of a permit-required confined space regarding hazards present. Therefore, the characteristic that clearly defines a permit-required confined space, as it relates to potential dangers and compliance with safety regulations, is the ability of the shape to entrap or asphyxiate workers.