Initial Entry Testing >> Visual Inspection

Figure 1: A visual inspection of both the space where work will take place and the adjacent spaces is necessary before starting any work activity
Figure 1: Visual inspection of space.

A visual inspection of both the space where work will take place and all adjacent spaces is necessary before starting any work activity. [29 CFR 1915.12(a), (b), and (c)] Problems must be adequately corrected before any work begins.

Figure 2: Standard drop light

The person performing the visual inspection should do at least the following

  • Determine if ladders or other suitable means are provided to allow safe entry to and exit from a space. [29 CFR 1915.72 and 29 CFR 1915.76]
  • Determine whether coatings and residues in the space may create hazardous atmospheres under work conditions.
  • Figure 3: Explosion-proof area lamp
    Ensure that spaces and adjacent spaces that contain or have contained liquids, gases, or solids that are toxic, corrosive, or irritating in nature have been visually inspected and tested before initial entry [(b)]. Ensure appropriate action has been taken to make the space safe before entry.
  • Figure 4: Explosion-proof drop light
    Ensure that adequate illumination that is appropriate for the present conditions and safe work performance in the space is provided. [(b)] Explosion-proof lights may also be required. [29 CFR 1915.13(b)(9)]
  • Provide temporary lighting when permanent lighting does not generate adequate illumination (29 CFR 1915.82(a)(4)). Portable and emergency lighting is required in dark areas that do not have permanent or temporary lights, where lights are not working, or where lights are not readily accessible (29 CFR 1915.82(c)(1)).
  • Ensure that good housekeeping conditions are maintained at all times. [29 CFR 1915.81]
  • Figure 5: Marine chemist verifies that piping is secured
    Ensure that pipelines that could carry hazardous materials into the space while workers are present are disconnected, blanked off, or otherwise blocked by positive method. [29 CFR 1915.15(a)]
  • Figure 6: Adjacent spaces
    Evaluate adjacent spaces or work being carried out in adjacent spaces to ensure that no hazardous conditions may be created for personnel working in subject space. [29 CFR 1915.12(a), (b), and (c)]