Confined Spaces in Underground Construction
January 21, 2025
Confined spaces present unique challenges and risks in the field of underground construction. Recognizing these risks and implementing effective safety measures is not just a regulatory requirement but a critical component of protecting your workforce. Here’s what companies need to know, do, and educate about confined spaces.
What You Need to Know
Definition of Confined Space: A confined space is an area that:
- Is large enough for workers to enter and perform tasks.
- Has limited or restricted means of entry or exit.
- Is not designed for continuous occupancy.
Types of Confined Spaces:
- Non-permit confined spaces: These spaces do not pose significant hazards.
- Permit-required confined spaces: These involve hazards such as:
- Atmospheric dangers (e.g., oxygen depletion, toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide).
- Risks of engulfment.
- Entrapment or asphyxiation potential.
- Other serious health or safety threats.
Regulatory Requirements:
- OSHA mandates continuous atmospheric monitoring in confined spaces whenever possible.
- Permits must be issued for work in spaces with specific hazards, and companies must retain these permits for at least one year for potential OSHA review.
- A competent person must evaluate job sites to identify confined spaces and hazards.
What You Need to Do
- Develop a Confined Space Plan:
- Identify all confined spaces on job sites.
- Clearly label and communicate confined spaces to workers.
- Implement Monitoring and Equipment Protocols:
- Use continuous atmospheric monitors to detect hazards like oxygen depletion and toxic gases.
- Equip workers with proper safety gear, including harnesses and ventilation equipment.
- Establish Rescue Plans:
- Define protocols for self-rescue, non-entry rescue, and entry rescue.
- Train rescue personnel annually and ensure documentation is up to date.
- Avoid sole reliance on external emergency services, which can delay rescue operations.
- Assign Clear Roles:
- Designate entrants, attendants, and supervisors for confined space work.
- Ensure roles are well-defined and communicated to all team members.
What You Need to Educate
- Train Workers Effectively:
- Provide training in a language and vocabulary workers understand.
- Educate workers on the hazards of confined spaces, including atmospheric dangers and physical risks.
- Educate on Regulatory Compliance:
- Teach workers the importance of permits and the conditions under which they are required.
- Emphasize the role of competent persons and the responsibilities of controlling contractors.
- Promote Vigilance and Communication:
- Reinforce the importance of staying vigilant, even with repeated tasks.
- Foster a culture of clear communication among team members to identify and address hazards promptly.
- Highlight the Risks:
- Discuss specific risks, such as:
- Oxygen depletion due to curing concrete.
- Hydrogen sulfide buildup from degrading organic material.
- Engulfment dangers in unstable environments.
Conclusion
Understanding and addressing the risks of confined spaces in underground construction is an ongoing process. Companies must prioritize knowledge, action, and education to safeguard their teams. With proper planning, monitoring, and training, you can ensure compliance with regulations and, more importantly, protect the lives of your workers.
For more information, visit OSHA’s resources on confined spaces: Confined Spaces in Construction Regulations.
Madison, WI — June 23, 2025 — Wisconsin’s water infrastructure is at a critical crossroads with federal investment transforming outdated systems and protecting public health. However, the success of these initiatives depends on sustained funding from Washington, D.C. State and local leaders are urging Congress to make ongoing water infrastructure investment a national priority. Why Continued Federal Support is Crucial Aging Infrastructure Needs: Much of Wisconsin’s water infrastructure is nearing the end of its functional life. Without regular investment, lead service lines, failing wastewater systems, and outdated stormwater management pose significant risks to public health and safety. Emerging Challenges: Contaminants like PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” threaten water safety in communities across the state. Continued funding ensures we can detect, remove, and prevent these hazards. Economic Impact: Federal funding supports thousands of jobs in construction, engineering, and manufacturing while providing cost savings to municipalities and ratepayers. A lapse in funding could halt these benefits. The Success of Federal Funding So Far Wisconsin has been a model of effective use of federal resources. Since the enactment of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL): The state has received over $900 million for water infrastructure projects. $402 million has been allocated to address emerging contaminants like PFAS. Communities of all sizes have benefited from grants and below-market loans, with special attention given to underserved areas. This progress underscores the need for continued federal support to maintain momentum and address long-standing water issues. A Call to Action for Wisconsin Residents and Leaders “Water infrastructure is the backbone of our communities, safeguarding health and supporting economic growth. We must ask Congress to continue investing in these essential systems,” said Ruth Hackney, Executive Director of WUCA. Continued federal funding will empower Wisconsin to: Replace remaining lead service lines, protecting children and families. Modernize aging wastewater systems to prevent flooding and pollution. Combat PFAS contamination and other emerging threats to water safety. Why Your Voice Matters Wisconsin residents and leaders have the power to influence federal priorities. By contacting elected officials, we can ensure that water infrastructure remains at the forefront of the national agenda. How to Take Action: Contact Your Representatives: Share why clean water matters to your community and ask for ongoing water infrastructure funding in future budgets. Engage Locally: Advocate for projects that showcase the importance of federal funding in your city or town. Stay Informed: Follow updates from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and community organizations championing water initiatives.
October 23, 2025 Weissgerber's Golden Mast Inn - W349 N5293, Lacys Ln, Okauchee Lake, WI 53069 WUCA's annual fundraising dinner and auction is a testament to the association's commitment to community. This impactful event brings together industry professionals, their families, and guests to raise vital funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Wisconsin. Event Highlights: Fundraising for a Worthy Cause : The auction features a wide array of donated items, including unique experiences, vacation packages, construction equipment, and tools. All proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, helping to grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses. Inspiring Stories : The event showcases the transformative power of a wish, sharing heartwarming stories of Wish Kids whose lives have been positively impacted by the generosity of others. Networking Opportunities : Connect with colleagues and industry leaders in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere while supporting a worthy cause. By participating in this event, you not only contribute to a great cause but also demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in the lives of children facing challenging circumstances. Join WUCA in its mission to build hope and create lasting memories for Wish Kids across Wisconsin. About Make-A-Wish : The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a beacon of hope and joy for children facing critical illnesses and their families. Dedicated to granting the wishes of these courageous children, the foundation believes in the transformative power of a wish come true. From meeting their favorite celebrity to experiencing thrilling adventures or traveling to dream destinations, Make-A-Wish creates magical moments that provide respite from the challenges of illness and instill a sense of hope and strength. With the support of donors, volunteers, and community partners, Make-A-Wish has touched the lives of countless children worldwide, bringing smiles, laughter, and cherished memories during some of life's toughest battles.
May 5, 2025
