Standard Practice for Confined Area Entry

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Vapor inhalation is the primary hazard encountered in the use of chlorinated solvents. The greatest potential for over exposure to these solvent vapors occurs where the employee is exposed to the high concentrations of vapor that may be found in confined areas. The seriousness of this hazard is often underestimated by those performing this type of work.  
4.2 This practice is designed for use by employers in developing their own specific standards for vessel or confined area entry.  
4.3 Many of these areas are considered as permit-required confined spaces as defined by OSHA (29 CFR 1910.146). The determination of the applicability of these requirements is the responsibility of the user.  
4.4 This practice represents the minimum requirements for entry into any confined area containing halogenated solvents.  
4.5 This practice does not address all of the requirements contained in the OSHA confined spaces standard. Development and implementation of training programs, recordkeeping, and other additional requirements of the OSHA standard are the responsibility of the user.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers recognized procedures necessary to protect the health and safety of workers required to enter confined spaces. These procedures are particularly applicable to entry into the confined areas associated with the use of halogenated organic solvents.  
1.2 Confined areas addressed in this practice include, but are not limited to: vapor degreasers, cold cleaning tanks, storage vessels, tank cars and trucks, van trailers, ships or barges, pits or sumps, and unventilated rooms.  
1.3 This practice does not necessarily address entry into all confined spaces nor does it address the decision strategy involved in requiring such entry.  
1.4 Although this practice describes specific safety steps to be taken for entry into confined spaces, it is not intended to preclude the use of any additional measures that may be deemed necessary for a particular situation.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
31-Dec-2019
Drafting Committee
D26.02 - Vapor Degreasing

Relations

Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020

Overview

ASTM D4276-02(2020), Standard Practice for Confined Area Entry, establishes essential procedures for protecting the health and safety of workers entering confined spaces, particularly where halogenated organic solvents are present. This standard provides recognized practices for employers to develop confined area entry protocols, focusing on the prevention of vapor inhalation hazards-a primary risk when working with chlorinated solvents in environments with limited ventilation.

Key Topics

  • Vapor Inhalation Hazard: Chlorinated and halogenated organic solvents can produce hazardous vapors that pose significant inhalation risks, especially in confined areas with poor ventilation.
  • Permit-Required Entry: Work in confined spaces often requires a written entry permit, issued by a qualified supervisor, to ensure that all hazards are evaluated and proper safety measures are implemented before entry.
  • Atmospheric Testing: Before and during confined space entry, thorough atmospheric testing for oxygen content (between 19.5% and 22%), flammability, and toxic vapor levels is mandated to ensure worker safety.
  • Preparation and Isolation: All process lines must be isolated, and the confined area cleaned and ventilated before entry. Use of lockout procedures and positive ventilation systems is required to mitigate exposure risks.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Adequate PPE (such as respirators, gloves, hard hats, and eye protection) is essential, but not a substitute for systematic safety precautions and environmental controls.
  • Attendant Requirement: A trained attendant must remain outside the confined space entrance, equipped with communication tools and ready to summon assistance if necessary.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Safety harnesses, lifelines, hoisting devices, and rescue-ready equipment must be available. Immediate response protocols for emergencies are critical.
  • Labeling and Documentation: Entrances to confined spaces must be clearly marked, and entry permits serve as an essential safety checklist and authorization tool.

Applications

The practices defined in ASTM D4276-02(2020) are applicable in a variety of industries and scenarios, including but not limited to:

  • Industrial Facilities: Maintenance and cleaning of vapor degreasers, cold cleaning tanks, storage tanks, and chemical process vessels.
  • Transportation: Entry into tank cars, tank trucks, and van trailers during inspections, repairs, or cleaning.
  • Marine Operations: Safe entry procedures for ship or barge compartments and cargo holds.
  • Utilities and Infrastructure: Work in pits, sumps, and unventilated rooms where hazardous solvents may be present.
  • Hazard Mitigation: Helps employers develop confined space entry protocols that meet or exceed regulatory requirements, including OSHA confined spaces regulations (29 CFR 1910.146), especially when using or storing halogenated solvents.

Related Standards

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146: Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations for permit-required confined spaces, which outline broader employer responsibilities, including training and recordkeeping.
  • ASTM D4268: Related to halogenated organic solvent safety practices.
  • General PPE Standards: For respiratory protection, eye protection, gloves, and other protective equipment relevant to chemical exposure.
  • Atmospheric Testing Standards: Pertinent for determining oxygen content, flammability, and the toxicity of vapors in confined spaces.

Summary

ASTM D4276-02(2020) Standard Practice for Confined Area Entry is a vital reference for employers, safety officers, and facility managers working with halogenated solvents in confined or enclosed spaces. Adhering to this standard supports the identification and control of vapor inhalation risks, the implementation of entry permitting systems, and compliance with OSHA and international safety guidelines. Proper application minimizes health hazards and ensures safe working environments in industries that routinely require confined space entry.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D4276-02(2020) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Confined Area Entry". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Vapor inhalation is the primary hazard encountered in the use of chlorinated solvents. The greatest potential for over exposure to these solvent vapors occurs where the employee is exposed to the high concentrations of vapor that may be found in confined areas. The seriousness of this hazard is often underestimated by those performing this type of work. 4.2 This practice is designed for use by employers in developing their own specific standards for vessel or confined area entry. 4.3 Many of these areas are considered as permit-required confined spaces as defined by OSHA (29 CFR 1910.146). The determination of the applicability of these requirements is the responsibility of the user. 4.4 This practice represents the minimum requirements for entry into any confined area containing halogenated solvents. 4.5 This practice does not address all of the requirements contained in the OSHA confined spaces standard. Development and implementation of training programs, recordkeeping, and other additional requirements of the OSHA standard are the responsibility of the user. SCOPE 1.1 This practice covers recognized procedures necessary to protect the health and safety of workers required to enter confined spaces. These procedures are particularly applicable to entry into the confined areas associated with the use of halogenated organic solvents. 1.2 Confined areas addressed in this practice include, but are not limited to: vapor degreasers, cold cleaning tanks, storage vessels, tank cars and trucks, van trailers, ships or barges, pits or sumps, and unventilated rooms. 1.3 This practice does not necessarily address entry into all confined spaces nor does it address the decision strategy involved in requiring such entry. 1.4 Although this practice describes specific safety steps to be taken for entry into confined spaces, it is not intended to preclude the use of any additional measures that may be deemed necessary for a particular situation. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Vapor inhalation is the primary hazard encountered in the use of chlorinated solvents. The greatest potential for over exposure to these solvent vapors occurs where the employee is exposed to the high concentrations of vapor that may be found in confined areas. The seriousness of this hazard is often underestimated by those performing this type of work. 4.2 This practice is designed for use by employers in developing their own specific standards for vessel or confined area entry. 4.3 Many of these areas are considered as permit-required confined spaces as defined by OSHA (29 CFR 1910.146). The determination of the applicability of these requirements is the responsibility of the user. 4.4 This practice represents the minimum requirements for entry into any confined area containing halogenated solvents. 4.5 This practice does not address all of the requirements contained in the OSHA confined spaces standard. Development and implementation of training programs, recordkeeping, and other additional requirements of the OSHA standard are the responsibility of the user. SCOPE 1.1 This practice covers recognized procedures necessary to protect the health and safety of workers required to enter confined spaces. These procedures are particularly applicable to entry into the confined areas associated with the use of halogenated organic solvents. 1.2 Confined areas addressed in this practice include, but are not limited to: vapor degreasers, cold cleaning tanks, storage vessels, tank cars and trucks, van trailers, ships or barges, pits or sumps, and unventilated rooms. 1.3 This practice does not necessarily address entry into all confined spaces nor does it address the decision strategy involved in requiring such entry. 1.4 Although this practice describes specific safety steps to be taken for entry into confined spaces, it is not intended to preclude the use of any additional measures that may be deemed necessary for a particular situation. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ASTM D4276-02(2020) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 13.100 - Occupational safety. Industrial hygiene. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM D4276-02(2020) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D4276-02(2012), ASTM D4080-15(2020), ASTM D4079-00(2022), ASTM D6368-06(2023), ASTM D4701-00(2020), ASTM D3698-04(2020), ASTM F3523-21, ASTM D4376-15(2020), ASTM D4579-00(2023). Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM D4276-02(2020) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:D4276 −02 (Reapproved 2020)
Standard Practice for
Confined Area Entry
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4276; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 3. Summary of Practice
1.1 This practice covers recognized procedures necessary to 3.1 Confined area entry refers to the entering of any tank,
protect the health and safety of workers required to enter vessel, sump, pit, duct, tank car, tank truck, van trailer, or
confined spaces. These procedures are particularly applicable enclosed space in which there has been, or may have been
to entry into the confined areas associated with the use of chemicals, chemical vapors, or a lack of ventilation.
halogenated organic solvents.
4. Significance and Use
1.2 Confinedareasaddressedinthispracticeinclude,butare
4.1 Vapor inhalation is the primary hazard encountered in
not limited to: vapor degreasers, cold cleaning tanks, storage
the use of chlorinated solvents. The greatest potential for over
vessels, tank cars and trucks, van trailers, ships or barges, pits
exposure to these solvent vapors occurs where the employee is
or sumps, and unventilated rooms.
exposed to the high concentrations of vapor that may be found
1.3 This practice does not necessarily address entry into all
in confined areas. The seriousness of this hazard is often
confined spaces nor does it address the decision strategy
underestimated by those performing this type of work.
involved in requiring such entry.
4.2 This practice is designed for use by employers in
1.4 Although this practice describes specific safety steps to
developing their own specific standards for vessel or confined
be taken for entry into confined spaces, it is not intended to
area entry.
preclude the use of any additional measures that may be
4.3 Many of these areas are considered as permit-required
deemed necessary for a particular situation.
confined spaces as defined by OSHA(29 CFR 1910.146). The
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
determination of the applicability of these requirements is the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
4.4 This practice represents the minimum requirements for
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
entry into any confined area containing halogenated solvents.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
4.5 This practice does not address all of the requirements
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
containedintheOSHAconfinedspacesstandard.Development
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
and implementation of training programs, recordkeeping, and
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
other additional requirements of the OSHA standard are the
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
responsibility of the user.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
5. Procedure
2. Referenced Documents
5.1 All personnel working in confined areas must be prop-
2.1 Code of Federal Regulations: erly trained in safe entry and rescue procedures. They must
have a working knowledge and understanding of the hazards
CFR 1910.146 U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational
Safety and Health Standards, Permit-Required Confined that may exist.
Spaces
5.2 Entry Permit—Entry into confined areas must be by
written entry permit, issued by the responsible supervisor or
other qualified person. The purpose of the entry permit is to
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D26 on Haloge-
ensure that a checklist of precautions has been reviewed prior
nated Organic Solvents and Fire Extinguishing Agents and is the direct responsi-
to entry. This permit is an authorization, and approval in
bility of Subcommittee D26.02 on Vapor Degreasing.
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2020. Published January 2020. Originally
writing certifying that all existing hazards have been evaluated
approved in 1984. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as D4276–02(2012).
and necessary protective measures have been taken to ensure
DOI: 10.1520/D4276–02R20.
the safety of the worker. The permit should be valid for a
Available from U.S. Government Publishing Office, 732 N. Capitol St., NW,
Washington, DC 20401, http://www.gpo.gov. limited time only, (usually an 8 or 10 h shift) and issuance of
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4276−02 (2020)
a new permit required in the event of any job interruption or must be equipped with proper safety equipment and adequate
any indication of changes in job conditions. Issuance of the communications equipment for summoning additional help if
entry permit must address all of the following considerations. necessary (for example, two-way radio, whistle, etc.). Under
no conditions should this attendant enter the enclosed area
5.3 Area Preparation:
unless others are standing by. If the observer is required to
5.3.1 Isolation—All process lines exiting or entering the
leave his post, the person inside the enclosed space must come
confined area must be disconnected, capped off, and blinded.
out.
Closing of valves alone is not adequate protecti
...

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