www.agc.org • September 2015

OSHA's Temporary Enforcement Policy for Confined Spaces in Construction

On May 4, 2015, OSHA published its standard on Confined Spaces in Construction. The new standard went into effect on Aug. 3, 2015. Requests for an extension of the effective date have indicated a need for additional time for training and the acquisition of equipment necessary to comply with the new standard. OSHA will not delay the effective date, but instead will postpone full enforcement of the new standard for 60 days from the effective date of Aug. 3, 2015 to Oct. 2, 2015. During this 60-day period, OSHA will not issue citations to an employer making good faith efforts to comply with the new standard, as long as the employer is in compliance with either the training requirements of the new standard or the training requirements of the former, which is stated here: All employees required to enter into confined or enclosed spaces shall be instructed as to the nature of the hazards involved, the necessary precautions to be taken, and in the use of protective and emergency equipment required. The employer shall comply with any specific regulations that apply to work in dangerous or potentially dangerous areas. For further information, please click here.