So what exactly does OSHA mean when they say…
Develop and implement the means, procedures, and practices necessary for safe permit space entry operations, including, but not limited to, the following:
…
1910.146(d)(3)(iii) Isolating the permit space
It is not uncommon to find spaces entered with NO isolation of the space and there tends to still be some “behind scene” arguements/debates as to just how does a PRCS have to be “isolated”. Here is what OSHA stated back in 1993 (emphasis added by me)
The term “isolation” means:
the process by which a permit space is removed from service AND completely protected against the release of energy and material into the space by such means as: blanking or blinding; misaligning or removing sections of lines, pipes, or ducts; a double block and bleed system; lockout or tagout of all sources of energy; or blocking or disconnecting all mechanical linkages.
The permit space MUST be ISOLATED from serious hazards. For example, if ENERGIZED PARTS OF ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT ARE EXPOSED, the circuit parts must be deenergized and locked out in accordance with section 1910.333(b). MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT posing a hazard within the space must be locked out or tagged in accordance with section 1910.147 or guarded in accordance with Subpart O of the General Industry Standards.
CHEMICAL or GAS LINES that are OPEN within the permit space MUST be isolated by such means as BLANKING OR BLINDING, MISALIGNING OR REMOVING SECTION OF LINES, PIPES, OR DUCTS, or a DOUBLE BLOCK AND BLEED SYSTEM.
Source: OSHA PRCS Preamble
PLEASE see my other articles on PRCS Energy Isolation
