Section 296-307-50017. What ventilation must be provided in confined spaces?

(1) All welding and cutting operations carried on in confined spaces must be adequately ventilated to prevent the accumulation of toxic materials or possible oxygen deficiency. This applies to welders, helpers, and other employees in the immediate vicinity. All replacement air must be clean and respirable.

(2) In circumstances where it is impossible to provide such ventilation, airline respirators or hose masks approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for this purpose must be used.

(3) In areas immediately hazardous to life, hose masks with blowers or self-contained breathing equipment must be used. The breathing equipment must be approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

(4) Where welding operations are carried on in confined spaces and where welders and helpers are provided with hose masks, hose masks with blowers or self-contained breathing equipment approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), an employee must be stationed on the outside of such confined spaces to ensure the safety of those working within.

(5) Oxygen must not be used for ventilation.

[WSR 97-09-013, recodified as § 296-307-50017, filed 4/7/97, effective 4/7/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [49.17.]050 and [49.17.]060. WSR 96-22-048, § 296-306A-50017, filed 10/31/96, effective 12/1/96.]

WSR 97-09-013, recodified as § 296-307-50017, filed 4/7/97, effective 4/7/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [49.17.]050 and [49.17.]060. WSR 96-22-048, § 296-306A-50017, filed 10/31/96, effective 12/1/96.