Which statement describes a permit-required confined space?

• A. A space containing or having the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere or other hazards requiring permit.
• B. A space that is outdoors.
• C. A space that is always accessible.
• D. A space with no hazards.

Answer: (A)

A permit-required confined space is a space that is large enough for a person to enter and work, has limited or restricted entry or exit, and has or could have hazardous conditions that require a permit to control. The hazardous condition can be a hazardous atmosphere (toxic or oxygen-deficient or flammable) or other serious hazards such as engulfment, inwardly converging walls, or other safety risks that could trap or injure a worker. The key idea is that the space isn’t just confined; it also has or could develop hazards that necessitate a formal permit program, testing, isolation of hazards, ventilation, and rescue readiness before entry.

The other statements don’t fit because being outdoors isn’t what defines these spaces, and many are indoors; a space that is always accessible isn’t required to have a permit- required status merely due to access; and a space with no hazards would not need the permit procedures designed to manage potential hazards.