What must an employer do when a permit space is present, even if employees do not need to enter it?

The correct response emphasizes the responsibilities of the employer regarding a permit-required confined space, even if employees do not plan to enter it. Taking steps to prevent entry demonstrates the employer's proactive approach to safety, ensuring that unauthorized individuals cannot access the space inadvertently.

This requirement is in line with OSHA’s regulations to protect workers from potential hazards associated with confined spaces, which may include toxic atmospheres, engulfment, or other dangers that could pose significant risks if an untrained or unauthorized individual were to enter the space.

Labeling the space, while important for awareness, does not actively prevent entry. Ventilating the area might be necessary for safe entry should it be required later, but this is not relevant when no entry is planned. Securing the space with locks could be one method of preventing entry but is only part of a broader strategy required of the employer. Therefore, the comprehensive step of actively preventing entry encapsulates the essential safety measures mandated by OSHA for managing the risks associated with permit-required confined spaces.