Confined space entry: mitigating risk in general industry.

Thorough understanding of the hazards, risks, and program and regulatory requirements for confined space entry provides the framework for safe entry procedures. Permit-required confined spaces possess hazardous characteristics that have the potential to cause harm, physical injury, or death. Special procedures are required for entry into a permit-required confined space. This article provides an overview of confined space hazards, permit requirements, and entrant and attendant responsibilities. Rescue requirements and implications are discussed. Understanding the hazards of confined space entry, safe permit-entry procedures, and rescue requirements enables occupational health nurses to support the EHS team in initiating an effective confined space entry program.