                          SUBMITTED BY
                            KEN SOBEL
                      SAFETY ADMINISTRATOR
                       CITY OF LOS ANGELES
                         (213) 485-4691

_________________________________________________________________
The following chapter from the City of Los Angeles Safety Manual is
a draft.  It has been submitted so that others may utilize the
information in helping to meet the requirements of the Written
Injury and Illness Prevention Program required by Senate Bill 198
and the expanded General Industry Safety Order 3203.
_________________________________________________________________
                                                       Chapter 14


                      CONFINED SPACE ENTRY

GENERAL

This chapter offers you a training aid for confined space
operations.  Its purpose is to assist employees in developing a
better understanding of what confined spaces are, the hazards
involved and the work practices necessary to complete a safe
operation.  The hazards associated with entering and working in
confined spaces are capable of causing bodily injury, illness and
death.  However, confined space operations should pose no health
and/or safety threat if detailed work procedures are developed and
all involved employees are properly trained.

Confined spaces include, but are not limited to, the following:

     Storage tanks, compartments of ships, process vessels, pits,
     silos, vats, degreasers, reaction vessels, boilers,
     ventilation and exhaust ducts, tunnels, underground utility
     vaults, pipelines and wastewater collection and treatment
     systems.

Regulations for confined space operations are located in the
Cal/OSHA, General Industry Safety Orders (GISO) Sections 5156,
5157, 5158, 5159 and are included in this chapter.


Section 5156

Note that the definition of a confined space states that two
conditions must concurrently exist before a space is defined as
such.  These conditions are:

      1.  Existing ventilation is insufficient to remove any
          dangerous air contamination and/or oxygen deficiency
          which may exist or develop.

      2.  Removing a suddenly disabled employee would be difficult
          due to the size and location of the opening(s).


Section 5157

Prior to any employee entering a confined space, or being assigned
as a member of a confined space entry team, the provisions of this
section must be met.  The requirements are:

      1.  Written operating and rescue procedures shall be
          developed, and;

      2.  All affected employees shall be trained in those proce-
          dures.

Additionally, the training shall include specific instructions
concerning the following:

      1.  Entry procedures

      2.  Rescue equipment and procedures.

      3.  Respiratory equipment.  See the section entitled Facial
          Hair and Safe Respirator Use in this chapter.

      4.  Instrumentation.

      5.  Power blower operation and required capacities (See
          Attachment D).

      6.  Work area protection.
     
      7.  Atmospheric hazards.

      8.  Physical hazards.

      9.  Personal protective equipment.

     10.  First aid and CPR.

     11.  Communications.

     12.  All other necessary equipment such as specialized tools
          and/or devices that may be required to accomplish the
          task.

See Chapter 2, INJURY AND ILLNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM, and Chapter
15, HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM.

Section 5158

Section 5158 deals with pre-entry procedures and requires various
precautions and tests prior to entering a space that is or may
develop into a confined space.  This section is flexible in its
requirements, because it attempts to provide minimum safe
procedures for all types of confined spaces.  This flexibility is
significant in that it requires supervision to make on-site
procedural decisions that will both satisfy the law and provide a
safe and efficient operation.  The following are common questions
raised by supervisors interpreting section 5158:

      1.  When is it necessary to disconnect, blind or block off
          lines or laterals that lead to the space?

      2.  It is OK to enter a space if air contamination is present
          but less than 20% of the lower explosive limit?

      3.  Is it necessary to augment existing ventilation if air
          contamination is present but less than 20% of the lower
          explosive limit?

      4.  When testing (monitoring) the space atmosphere, how often
          is sufficient frequency?

      5.  How does one know when the development of dangerous air
          contamination and/or oxygen deficiency in a space is
          imminent?

When considering the many types of (potentially) confined spaces,
these questions do not always have precise answers.  A good rule of
thumb is that, unless absolutely necessary, never enter a space
that contains any amount of air contamination or oxygen deficiency. 
Follow the steps indicated in Section 5158, until the contaminants
are removed.

In sewer wastewater systems, there is a potential for serious
atmospheric degradation at any time, so a more cautious approach
must be enforced to protect those who are entering.  Because of the
possibility of a hazardous atmosphere developing, all sewer related
spaces must be considered as being confined spaces, regardless of
whether initial testing indicates a safe atmosphere.  Treating
those spaces as confined spaces means that the space satisfies the
definition of a confined space (Section 5156) and that the
provisions in Section 5158 and 5159 shall apply before and during
entry.  All written procedures and training efforts shall adopt
this concept.

Most of the City's confined spaces are located in the wastewater
collection and treatment systems.  Because of the multitude of
shapes, sizes, locations and functions of these spaces, one single
"boiler plate" written procedure would not be sufficient.  Written
plans must accommodate unique situations, and supervisors may
require the flexibility of on-site adjustments to their written
step-by-step procedures.  This means that before operations in any
wastewater related space, certain pre-entry and entry procedures
are mandatory, but exact step-by-step procedures may need to be
flexible to best accommodate an endless variety of situations.

Following are six procedural recommendations, offered to assist in
the development of a confined space program.  Inclusion of these
recommendations will satisfy the mandatory pre-entry and entry
requirement and will also clarify many of the questions commonly
asked by supervisors.  The purposes of the recommendations are to
ensure a safe operation and to standardize City policy.

     1.   Unless there is an extreme, urgent need such as to save
          a life, never enter a space when tests indicate that
          dangerous air contamination, and/or oxygen deficiency is
          present.  If entry is absolutely necessary, strict
          adherence to the confined space rules is mandatory.

     2.   If tests indicate a hazardous environment, immediately
          notify a management representative.  An evaluation must
          be made to find the source of the problem.  It may become
          necessary to disconnect, blind or block off lines or
          laterals that lead to the space.  Again, DO NOT ENTER.

     3.   If tests indicate that air contamination is present, but
          is less than 20% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) or
          toxic limits, notify supervision.  Attempt to locate the
          source of the problem and abate it.  Enter only under the
          strict adherence to the confined space rules.

     4.   Before entering any space, purge the space using a power
          blower with sufficient capacity.  While personnel are
          inside the space, provide continuous ventilation.

     5.   Before any operation, test the atmosphere for hydrogen
          sulfide, methane gas and oxygen deficiency.  While inside
          the space, continuously monitor the atmosphere and peri-
          odically (at least every 2 hours) record the results.  If
          the instrument alarm sounds, leave the space immediately.

     6.   Always treat wastewater-related spaces as if they are
          confined spaces.  However, one exception may be made.  If
          initial testing indicates that there is no air
          contamination or oxygen deficiency, the person(s)
          entering shall be equipped with a supplied air supplied
          respirator but need not don the respirator facepiece. 
          This exception is not policy, but is governed by a
          knowledgeable supervisor evaluating the space, and
          ensuring that continuous monitoring and ventilation is
          being provided while inside the space.  If the instrument
          alarm sounds, entry person(s) shall don the respirator
          facepiece and leave the space immediately.


Section 5159

Once an area is determined to be a confined space, the requirements
of Section 5159, Confined Space Operations shall be followed.  This
Section covers the precautions and requirements for working in
hazardous atmospheres.


The following procedures graphically depict the necessary steps to
be taken prior to and while working in confined spaces.                  CONFINED SPACE PRE-ENTRY PROCEDURES
                           Ŀ
                            SUPERVISOR 
                           
                                 
                     Ŀ
                      PRE-OPERATION MEETING 
          Ĵ   MAKE ASSIGNMENTS    
                    
Ŀ   Ŀ   Ŀ
    NECESSARY          NECESSARY PERSONAL      NECESSARY WORK  
 VEHICLES & TOOLS Ĵ PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Ĵ AREA PROTECTION 
      
         
Ŀ  Ŀ
 POSITION VEHICLES           TEST THE SPACE ATMOSPHERE     
 & OTHER EQUIPMENT Ĵ(TEST MANHOLES BEFORE REMOVING COVERS)
  
               
     Ŀ    Ŀ
      RECORD TEST RESULTS          MAKE TEST RESULTS   
      AND MAINTAIN AT SITE Ĵ AVAILABLE TO EMPLOYEES 
         
                                
                         Ŀ
                          TEST RESULTS 
                         
     Ŀ
Ŀ Ŀ  Ŀ
 TESTS OK   TESTS INDICATE LESS THAN    DANGEROUS AIR CONTA- 
   ZERO       20% TOXIC/LEL LIMITS        MINATION OXYGEN    
 READINGS         DEFICIENCY       
                              
                                                     
Ŀ   Ŀ       Ŀ
  SEE ENTRY     NOTIFY SUPERVISOR         NOTIFY MANAGEMENT 
 PROCEDURES             REPRESENTATIVE   
                              
                                                      
                 Ŀ                  
                  PURGE SPACE WITH                   
                    POWER BLOWER                     
                                   
                                                      
                  Ŀ              Ŀ
                   RETEST SPACE                DO NOT ENTER 
                                
                   Ŀ            Ŀ
                    SEE ENTRY               AWAIT SUPERVISION 
                    PROCEDURES                  DIRECTION     
                               CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PROCEDURES

                          Ŀ
                                           
                           ENTRY PROCEDURE 
                                           
                          
                 
    Ŀ
                            
     CONTINUOUS VENTILATION 
                            
    
       Ŀ         Ŀ
        RESCUE EQUIPMENT Ĵ PERSONAL PROTECTIVE 
           AVAILABLE                    EQUIPMENT      
                
                                                          
        Ŀ          Ŀ
                                                      
         COMMUNICATIONS Ĵ STANDBY PROCEDURES 
                                                      
                  
         Ŀ              Ŀ
                                                     
          RESPIRATORS                INDEPENDENT AIR 
                                         SUPPLY      
                                        
                                     
    Ŀ        Ŀ
                                                     
         ENTER WITH                 IF ALARM SOUNDS, 
     CONTINUOUS MONITORING Ĵ LEAVE THE SPACE  
                                                     
            
                                   Ŀ
                                                      
                                    NOTIFY SUPERVISOR 
                                                      
                                   
      Ŀ
                          
       FREQUENTLY RECORD  
       MONITORING RESULTS 
                          
      
          Ŀ
             JOB TO   
           COMPLETION 
                                    POWER BLOWERS

Labeling

All power blowers must be labeled to indicate the certified
effective net capacity at the end of the 15-foot standard blower
hose.  These capacities are rated with one 90o hose bend (normal
arrangement for initial purge) and two 90o hose bends (normal
arrangement for continuous ventilation).  If labels are missing,
obtain them from the power blower vender.


Purge time determination

Explosive gases:

     Of the flammable gases commonly reported in manholes, gasoline
     vapors have the lowest explosive limit (LEL).  Based upon
     reducing a gasoline vapor contaminated manhole to below the
     10% of the LEL (1300 parts per million (ppm)), the required
     purge time of all conventional manhole sizes can be determined
     by: t = 7.5 V/R.  At NO TIME SHALL PURGING TIME BE LESS THAN
     5 MINUTES.

          Where     t  = purge time (minutes)
                    V = manhole volume
                    R = effective net blower capacity

Toxic gases:

     In all sewer-related spaces and other spaces where toxic
     gasses may be present, such as hydrogen sulfide, purge time
     should be increased 50% above that as determined for the 10%
     LEL for gasoline criteria.  This can be determined by:  t =
     11.1 V/R

Continuous Ventilation:

     Following the purging requirements, the manhole shall be
     continuously ventilated so long as it is occupied by anyone,
     even momentarily.  Continuous ventilation may be at lower
     rates than what is required for purging but not less than 334
     cfm measured at the end of the blower hose with two 90o bends.
                    HYDROGEN SULFIDE (H2S)

Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless gas with the odor of rotten eggs
and is widely used in industry.  It is also commonly produced by
the decomposition of sulfur-bearing, organic material and is often
found in sewers and wastewater treatment plants.  The gas is an
irritant and an asphyxiant as well as being dangerously flammable
in high concentration.  Very low concentrations cause irritation to
the eyes.  Slightly higher concentrations cause irritation of the
upper respiratory tract.  Its asphyxiant action is due to paralysis
of the respiratory center.  Inhalation of high concentrations may
result in immediate death.  In lower concentrations, the symptoms
may be nausea, stomach distress, belching, coughing, headache,
irritation to the eyes and blistering of the lips.  The notoriously
bad odor of H2S (rotten eggs) cannot be taken as a warning sign,
because sensitivity to this odor disappears rapidly with the
breathing of a small quantity of the gas.  H2S is approximately 20%
heavier than air, so expect the gas to be found in low-lying areas
or trapped in sewage and sludge.  See Chapter 15, HAZARD
COMMUNICATION PROGRAM.

Definitions:

     PEL- Permissible Exposure Limit
          The maximum permitted 8-hour time weighted average
          concentration of an airborne contaminant.

    TWA - An 8-hour Time Weighted Average
          Concentration calculated by the following formula:  
          C1T1 + C1T2 . . CNTN  where  C = Concentration, T = Time
                     8*

H2S exposure times of more than 10 ppm but not more than 20 ppm
shall not exceed the TWA.  Example:  A 20 ppm exposure for four
hours equals the allowable TWA.  (Excursion Limit)

H2S exposure shall never exceed 50 ppm.  All exposures between 20
ppm and 50 ppm shall not exceed 10 minutes in any 8-hour shift.

  *  Eight (8) is used as the denominator regardless of total hours
     in the workday.

                    HYDROGEN SULFIDE (H2S)

Ŀ
   PPM                                                        
                                                              
 40,000    EXPLOSIVE RANGE APPROX. 4% TO 44%          
                   (40,000 TO 440,000 PPM*)                   
                                                              
                                                              
  2,000     UNCONSCIOUSNESS AT ONCE ~ DEATH IN A FEW  
  1,000             MINUTES                                   
                                                              
                                                              
    700     RAPID UNCONSCIOUSNESS ~ CESSATION OF      
    600             RESPIRATION ~ FOLLOWED BY DEATH           
                                                              
                                                              
    500     DIZZINESS ~ NAUSEA ~ BRONCHITIS           
    300             PULMONARY EDEMA                           
                                                              
                                                              
    100     COUGHING ~ EYE IRRITATION ~ LOSS OF SENSE 
                    OF SMELL AFTER 2 TO 15 MINUTES            
                                                              
                                                              
     10     PEL** ~ BEGINNING EYE IRRITATION          
                                                              
                                                              
      5     EASILY DETECTABLE ODOR                    
                                                              
                                                              


     *PPM = PARTS PER MILLION.  PARTS OF GAS PER MILLION PARTS OF
     AIR BY VOLUME.  A 1% GAS AIR CONCENTRATION IS EQUAL TO 10,000
     PPM.

     **PEL = PERMISSIVE EXPOSURE LIMITS.  CONCENTRATION AT WHICH IT
     IS BELIEVED THAT ALL WORKERS MAY BE REPEATEDLY EXPOSED DAY
     AFTER DAY WITHOUT ADVERSE EFFECTS.  (CAL/OSHA REQUIREMENT)

                         METHANE (CH4)

Methane is formed by the decomposition of organic materials under
water, hence is found in the muddy water of swamps, from which it
gets the name "marsh gas".  The most important commercial source of
methane is natural gas, which may contain as much as 90% methane. 
Methane is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas.  It is
flammable or explosive when the gas/air mixture is in the range of
5 to 15%.  Because methane is formed by the decomposition of
organic materials, it is likely to accumulate in spaces associate
with sewer wastewater and treatment systems.  It is approximately
40% lighter than air, so be aware of methane being trapped in the
upper levels of manholes, valves and other sewer or sewage related
spaces.

Ŀ
100%                                            
                                                            
                                                            
                                                              
              ~                             TOO RICH          
              ~                                               
                                                            
                                                            
                                                            
 15%        UEL                               
                                                            
                                                            
                                                            
 10%                                 EXPLOSIVE         
                                             RANGE           
                                                            
                                                            
  5%        LEL                               
                                                            
                                                            
                                           TOO LEAN          
                                                            
  1%       20% LEL                  METER ALARM        
                                                            
                                        

*UEL = UPPER EXPLOSIVE LIMITS **LEL = LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMITS

    In high concentrations, methane is classified as a simple
     asphyxiant gas.  The gas acts by excluding oxygen from the
     lungs.

    Never enter a space where methane concentrations are above 20%
     of the LEL.

    Concentrations above the UEL may dissipate at any time into
     the explosive range.OXYGEN (O2) DEFICIENCY

Our normal atmosphere is composed of approximately 20.9% oxygen,
78% nitrogen and 1% argon with small amounts of various other
gases.  An atmosphere that does not contain enough oxygen to
support life for an unlimited period is classified as oxygen
deficient.  Cal/OSHA has determined that an atmosphere containing
oxygen at a concentration of less than 19.5% by volume is
considered oxygen deficient.

Reduction of oxygen in a confined space may be the result of
consumption or displacement.  The consumption of oxygen takes place
during combustion of flammable substances, as in welding, cutting
and brazing or by heating the confined space.  Another cause of
oxygen deficiency is through bacterial action or during chemical
reactions.  Displacement of oxygen in a confined space can be the
results of the introduction of other gases such as helium, argon,
nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or methane.  In addition, some bacterial
forms may consume the oxygen as they grow.

                           OXYGEN (O2)

Ŀ
                                                              
                                                              
 25%   OXYGEN ENRICHED ~ FLAMMABILITY RANGE OF GASES    
                  INCREASE                                    
                                                              
                                                              
 20%  20.95% NORMAL ATMOSPHERE                          
                  BELOW 19.5% CONSIDERED OXYGEN DEFICIENT     
                                                              
                                                              
 15%  NOTICEABLE PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENT                    
                                                              
                                                              
                                                              
 10%   NAUSEA & VOMITING FOLLOWED BY DEATH              
                                                              
                                                              
                                                              
   5%  DEATH OCCURS QUICKLY                             
                                                              
                                                              
                                                              


NORMAL ATMOSPHERE:  NITROGEN            78.09%
(APPROXIMATELY)          OXYGEN              20.95%
                         ARGON                0.93%
                         CARBON DIOXIDE  0.04% ARTICLE 108 - CAL/OSHA
                  CONFINED SPACE SAFETY ORDERS

5156.     Scope and Definitions.

     (a)  Scope.  This Article prescribes minimum standards for
          preventing employee exposure to dangerous air
          contamination and/or oxygen deficiency,  as defined by
          Section 5156(b), within such spaces as silos, tanks,
          vats, vessels, boilers, compartments, ducts, sewers,
          pipelines, vaults, bins, tubs, and pits.

NOTE:     This Article does not apply to underwater operations
          conducted in diving bells or other underwater devices or
          to supervised hyperbaric facilities.

     (b)  Definitions.

          (1)  Confined Space.  A space defined by the  concurrent
               existence of the following conditions:

               (A)  Existing ventilation is insufficient to remove
                    dangerous air contamination and/or oxygen
                    deficiency which may exist or develop.

               (B)  Ready access or egress for the removal of  a
                    suddenly disabled employee is difficult due to
                    the location and/or size of the opening(s).

          (2)  Dangerous Air Contamination.  An atmosphere
               presenting a threat of causing death, injury, acute
               illness, or disablement due to the presence of
               flammable and/or explosive, toxic, or otherwise
               injurious or incapacitating substances.

               (A)  Dangerous air contamination due to the
                    flammability of a gas or vapor is defined as
                    an atmosphere containing the gas or vapor at a
                    concentration greater than 20 percent of its
                    lower explosive (lower flammable) limit.

               (B)  Dangerous air contamination due to a
                    combustible particulate is defined as a
                    concentration greater than 20 percent of the
                    minimum explosive concentration of the
                    particulate.

               (C)  Dangerous air contamination due to the
                    toxicity of a substance is defined at the
                    atmospheric concentration immediately
                    dangerous to life and health (IDLH).

NOTE:     This definition of dangerous air contamination due to the
          toxicity of a substance does not preclude the requirement
          to control harmful exposures, under the provisions of
          Article 107, to toxic substances at concentrations less
          than those immediately hazardous to life or health.

          (3)  Oxygen Deficiency.  An atmosphere containing oxygen
               at a concentration of less than 19.5 percent by
               Volume.

5157.     Operating Procedures and Employee Training.

     The employer shall implement the provisions of this section
     before any employee is permitted to enter a confined space.

     (a)  Operating Procedures.

          (1)  Written, understandable operating and rescue
               procedures shall be developed and shall be provided
               to affected employees.

          (2)  operating procedures shall conform to the
               applicable requirements of the Article and shall
               include provision for the surveillance of the
               surrounding area to avoid hazards such as drifting
               vapors from tanks, piping and sewers.

     (b)  Employee Training.  Employees including standby persons
          required by Section 5159(a)(4), shall be trained in the
          operating and rescue procedures, including instructions
          as to the hazards they may encounter.


5158.     Pre-entry.

     The applicable provisions of this section shall be implemented
     before entry into a confined space.

     (a)  Lines which may convey flammable, injurious, or
          incapacitating substances into the space shall be
          disconnected, blinded, or blocked off by other positive
          means to prevent the development of dangerous air
          contamination and/or oxygen deficiency within the space. 
          The disconnection or blind shall be so located or done in
          such a manner that inadvertent reconnection of the line
          or removal of the blind are effectively prevented.

EXCEPTION:     This subsection does not apply to public utility
               gas distribution systems.

NOTE:     This subsection does not require blocking of all laterals
          to sewers or storm drains.  Where experience or knowledge
          of industrial use indicates materials resulting in
          dangerous air contamination may be dumped into an
          occupied sewer, all such laterals shall be blocked.

     (b)  The space shall be emptied, flushed, or otherwise purged
          of flammable, injurious or incapacitating substances to
          the extent feasible.

     (c)  The air shall be tested with an appropriate device or
          method to determine whether dangerous air contamination
          and/or an oxygen deficiency exists and a written record
          of such testing results shall be made and kept at the
          work site for the duration of the work.  Affected
          employees and/or their representatives shall be afforded
          an opportunity to review and record the testing results.

     (d)  Where interconnected spaces are blinded off as a unit,
          each space shall be tested and the results recorded, in
          accordance with Section 5158(c), and the most hazardous
          condition so found shall govern procedures to be
          followed.

     (e)  If dangerous air contamination and/or oxygen deficiency
          does not exist within the space, as demonstrated by tests
          performed in accordance with Section 5158(c), entry into
          and work within the space may proceed subject to the
          following provisions:

          (1)  Testing, in accordance with Section 5158(c), shall
               be conducted with sufficient frequency to ensure
               that the development of dangerous air contamination
               and/or oxygen deficiency does not occur during the
               performance of any operation.

          (2)  If the development of dangerous air contamination
               and/or an oxygen deficiency is imminent, the
               requirements prescribed by Section 5159 shall also
               apply.

     (f)  Where the existence of dangerous air contamination and/or
          oxygen deficiency is demonstrated by tests performed in
          accordance with Section 5158(c), existing ventilation
          shall be augmented by appropriate means.

     (g)  When additional ventilation provided in accordance with
          Section 5158(f) has removed dangerous air contamination
          and/or oxygen deficiency as demonstrated by additional
          testing conducted (and recorded) in accordance with
          Section 5158(c), entry into and work within the space may
          proceed subject to the provisions of Section 5158(e)(1)
          and (2).

     (h)  No source of ignition shall be introduced until the
          implementation of appropriate provisions of this section
          have ensured that dangerous air contamination due to
          flammable and/or explosive substances does not exist.

     (i)  Whenever oxygen-consuming equipment such as salamanders,
          plumbers' torches or furnaces, and the like, are to be
          used, measures shall be taken to ensure adequate
          combustion air and exhaust gas venting.

     (j)  To the extent feasible, provision shall be made to permit
          ready entry and exit.

     (k)  Where it is not feasible to provide for ready exit form
          spaces equipped with automatic fire suppression systems
          employing harmful design concentrations of toxic or
          oxygen-displacing gases, or total foam flooding, such
          systems shall be deactivated.  Where it is not practical
          or safe to deactivate such systems, the provisions of
          Section 5159 related to the use of respiratory protective
          equipment shall apply during entry into and work within
          such spaces.

5159.     Confined Space Operations.

     (a)  Entry Into and Work Within Confined Spaces.  The
          requirements of this subsection apply to entry into and
          work within a confined space: whenever an atmosphere free
          of dangerous air contamination and/or oxygen deficiency
          cannot be ensured through the implementation of the
          applicable provisions of Section 5158, or whenever, due
          to the existence of an emergency, it is not feasible to
          ensure the removal of dangerous air contamination and/or
          an oxygen deficiency through the implementation of the
          applicable provisions of Section 5158.

          (1)  Tanks, vessels, or other confined spaces with side
               and top openings shall be entered from side
               openings when practicable.

NOTE:     For the purposes of this Order, side openings are those
within 31/4 feet of the bottom.

          (2)  Appropriate, approved respiratory protective
               equipment, in accordance with Section 5144, shall
               be provided and worn.

          (3)  An approved safety belt with an attached line shall
               be used.  The free end of the line shall be secured
               outside the entry opening.  The line shall be at
               least 1/2-inch diameter and 2,000-pounds test.

EXCEPTION:     Where it can be shown that a safety belt and
               attached line would further endanger the life of
               the employee.  

          (4)  At least one employee shall stand by on the outside
               of the confined space ready to give assistance in
               case of emergency.  At least one additional
               employee who may have other duties shall be within
               sight or call of the standby employee(s).

               (A)  The standby employee shall have appropriate,
                    approved, respiratory protective equipment,
                    including an independent source of breathing
                    air which conforms with Section 5144(e),
                    available for immediate use.

               (B)  A standby employee (or employee) protected as
                    prescribed by Section 5159(a)(4)(A) may enter
                    the confined space but only in case of
                    emergency and only after alerting at least one
                    additional employee outside of the confined
                    space of the existence of an emergency and of
                    the standby employee's intent to enter the
                    confined space.

          (5)  When entry must be made through a top opening, the
               following requirements shall also apply.

               (A)  The safety belt shall be of the harness type
                    that suspends a person in an upright position.

               (B)  A hoisting device or other effective means
                    shall be provided for lifting employees out of
                    the space.

          (6)  Work involving the use of flame, arc, spark, or
               other source of ignition is prohibited within a
               confined space (or any adjacent space having common
               walls, floor, or ceiling with the confined space)
               which contains, or is likely to develop, dangerous
               air contamination due to flammable and/or explosive
               substances.

          (7)  Whenever gases such as nitrogen are used to provide
               an inert atmosphere for preventing the ignition of
               flammable gases or vapors, no flame, arc, spark, or
               other source of ignition shall be permitted unless
               the oxygen concentration is maintained at less than
               20 percent of the concentration which will support
               combustion.

               (A)  Testing of the oxygen content shall be
                    conducted with sufficient frequency to ensure
                    conformance with this paragraph.

               (B)  A written record of the results of such
                    testing shall be made and kept at the work
                    site for the duration of the work.

               (C)  Affected employees and/or their representative
                    shall be provided an opportunity to review and
                    record the testing results.

          (8)  Only approved lighting and electrical equipment, in
               accordance with the Low-Voltage Electrical Safety
               Orders, shall be used in confined spaces subject to
               dangerous air contamination by flammable and/or
               explosive substance. 

          (9)  Employees working in confined spaces which have
               last contained substances corrosive to the skin or
               substances which can be absorbed through the skin
               shall be provided with, and shall be required to
               wear, appropriate personal protective clothing or
               devices in accordance with Article 10.

     (b)  Precautions for Emergencies Involving Work in Confined
          Spaces.

          (1)  At least one person trained in first aid and
               cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) shall be
               immediately available whenever the use of
               respiratory protective equipment is required by
               Section 5159(a).  Standards for CPR training shall
               follow the principles of the American Heart
               Association or the American Red Cross.

          (2)  An effective means of communication between
               employees inside a confined space and a standby
               employee shall be provided and used whenever the
               provisions of Section 5159(a) require the use of
               respiratory protective equipment or whenever
               employees inside a confined space are out of sight
               of the standby employee(s).  All affected employees
               shall be trained in the use of such communication
               system and the system shall be tested before each
               use to confirm its effective operation.
     The following section comes from Safety Bulletin 43A, dated August
1988.  Its requirements are still in effect.


FACIAL HAIR AND SAFE RESPIRATOR USE


Some employees who come to the Personnel Department's Central
Clinic to participate in the City's Respirator Medical Testing
Program have had facial hair in the form of beards, goatees, etc. 
This Safety Bulletin is being issued to remind everyone that the
requirements established in Safety Bulletin 43, dated February
1986, still apply.  Bulletin 43 stated:

On numerous occasions, the Occupational Safety Office staff has
been asked if an employee who is required to wear respiratory pro-
tection may have a beard or mustache.  The answer has usually been
"NO" if the person has a beard and "IT DEPENDS" concerning the
mustache.  Phone conversations with both the California Division of
Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) as well as with the
Federal National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH, the organization that certifies respiratory apparatus)
supported our stand.

Cal/OSHA has published a fact sheet concerning facial hair and res-
pirator use.  It states:

     If you've worn a beard, mustache, or sideburns for some
     time, it's a shock to be told that because either your
     normal work duties or a reasonably foreseeable emergency
     requires you to wear a respirator or self-contained
     breathing apparatus (SCBA) or to be prepared to wear
     respiratory protective equipment, you'll have to shave
     off or modify that facial hair.  It may be tricky to have
     to explain to your wife or your girl friend, particularly
     if she enjoys having you wear facial hair as much as you
     do.  However, continuing to wear facial hair if you wear,
     or may have to wear a respirator, needlessly risks your
     safety, health, and life.  Why?  Because most respirators
     rely on a good seal on the face to obtain the protection
     factor needed to protect you in a hazardous environment.

     Sideburns, a beard, or bush mustache or even facial scars
     can interfere with establishing and maintaining proper
     seal of the respirator face mask and may prevent the ex-
     halation valve from sealing during inhalation.  If that
     happens, you may never be warned that your respirator is
     leaking and exposing you to a toxic atmosphere.  You may
     never smell or see the danger because the concentration,
     although great enough to harm or kill you, isn't great
     enough to be detected by sight or smell.  If you are fi-
     nally able to see or smell the contaminant, it may be too
     late for you to escape danger, or you may suffer sig-
     nificant ill effects.

     Note:  If you wear SCBA - The air inside the mask will
     not necessarily sweep everything in the mask out and keep
     outside air from entering the mask unless you have estab-
     lished a snug face fit - and that's done best when you
     are clean shaven.

     Several experiments show that only two day's growth  de-
     creases the protection of a respirator by about fifty 
     percent and eight day's growth reduces it to almost zero
     because of loss of pressure inside the face piece caused
     by the facial hair.  In addition, this leakage would re-
     duce the service time of your SCBA from 30 minutes to
     only 10 or 15 minutes.

     The ability to establish a proper face seal quickly is
     particularly important for "respirator workers" - those
     workers who must work in, or enter a hazardous environ-
     ment to repair or maintain equipment or who must, because
     of their responsibilities, remain in a hazardous environ-
     ment in the event of an emergency.

     When your employer has a "no facial hair" policy for em-
     ployees who must or may wear respirators, it's for these
     common sense protective reasons as well as to comply with
     Cal/OSHA requirements for respiratory protective equip-
     ment which specify, "Respirators shall be inspected be-
     fore each use and shall not be worn when conditions pre-
     vent a good gas tight face seal."  (General Industry
     Safety Order 5144 - Title 8, California Administrative
     Code).  Neither the Division nor your employer can con-
     done your entering a known hazardous environment with a
     poorly fitting respirator which will not provide
     protection.

Conclusion:

If you are required to wear respiratory protective equipment and
you have any facial hair (beard, large mustache, large sideburns,
etc.) that would interfere with the sealing surface of such equip-
ment, you will be required to shave or trim your hair to comply
with Cal/OSHA safety regulations.
                     SAMPLE CONFINED SPACE
                         ENTRY PROCEDURE


The following is an adaptation of a Confined Space Entry Procedure
currently in use within a City bureau.  While some parts may not be
applicable to your specific operation, you can use it as a guide
when you prepare your own Confined Space Entry Procedure:

The procedure shall be followed by all personnel before entering a
possible confined space.  It is the intent of these procedures to
have the Manager or a designated representative responsible for
giving final approval for each confined space entry; however, if
maintenance personnel are involved exclusively, the Maintenance
Manager shall be the responsible party.

1)   The permit and pre-entry checklist form shall be filled out by
     the work crew supervisor.  This form, along with training
     documentation, shall be submitted to the appropriate manager
     (e.g., Shift Superintendent or Maintenance Manager) for review
     and approval.  This approval will serve as an entry permit.

2)   Secure all pumps, motors, valves and electricity needed to
     isolate the confined spaces prior to entry.  Request safety
     clearance as required.

3)   Empty, flush or otherwise purge the confined space of
     flammable, injurious or incapacitating substances as much as
     possible.

4)   Note entry/exit points in case of the need for emergency
     escape or rescue.

5)   Test the atmosphere for explosive gas, toxic gas (H2S) and
     oxygen deficiency and monitor on a continual basis while the
     employee is within the confined space.  Enter all the results
     on the atmospheric test form.

6)   If there is no indication of air contamination and/or oxygen
     deficiency, entry into the confined space may proceed.  Forced
     draft ventilation is required during the entire time the
     confined space is occupied.

7)   If there is an indication of air contamination (H2S, LEL)
     and/or oxygen deficiency, introduce forced draft ventilation
     at a minimum rate of 750 CFM for at least ten minutes.  Retest
     the atmosphere.  If the test is negative, entry may proceed. 
     If the test is positive, contact your supervisor.

     NOTE:     Purge time will increase in large spaces (Safety
               Section will advise).

8)   Ensure an effective means of communicating between standby
     persons and those inside the space is provided.

9)   A parachute-type harness shall be worn by all employees and an
     effective means of rescue provided.

10)  At least two standby persons shall be present, and at least
     one shall be trained in CPR.

11)  If the meter alarms while the work is being performed, thus
     indicating a hazardous condition, STOP working, EXIT
     IMMEDIATELY and notify your supervisor.

12)  When the work is completed, the crew supervisor shall
     inventory the safety equipment and return each piece of
     equipment of its proper storage area.

13)  RESCUE PROCEDURES

     Specific procedures for rescue may change because of the size,
     shape and location of the space.  Ensure the following
     elements are included in all rescue procedures:

     a.   Rescue from outside the space whenever possible.

     b.   Enter to rescue only when standby personnel are on site.

     c.   Rescue entry personnel must use positive pressure
          respiratory equipment approved for an environment
          Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH).  The
          respiratory equipment must have an independent air
          supply.

     d.   A hoisting device shall be provided for lifting employees
          out of a confined space.

     e.   Immediately notify supervision and a rescue ambulance
          (911).

     f.   Rescue attempts should be conducted in an efficient and
          calm manner.
             SAFE WORK PRACTICE IN CONFINED SPACES


                 Permit and Pre-Entry Checklist


DATE                  TIME OF ENTRY                  ENTRY NUMBER 
                    
CONFINED SPACE LOCATION                                           
                            

SPECIFIC CONFINED SPACE ENTRY LOCATION                            
                  
POSSIBLE JOB HAZARDS                                              
                                

REASON FOR ENTRY                                                  
                                

                                                                  
                                

                                                                  
                                

PERSONNEL ASSIGNED

(1)                                                    (4)        
                         

(2)                                                    (5)        
                        
                                        (CPR Person)
(3)                                  

                                                                  
                           
WORK CREW SUPERVISOR                    TITLE

                       SAFETY EQUIPMENT

                   (YES, NUMBER USED, or N/A*)

      First Aid Kit                 Wooden Ladder           
Atmospheric Test 
                                                            
Instruments 

      Self-Contained                     Manhole Cover       No
Smoking Sign
      Breathing Apparatus                    Lifter

      Approved Safety               Air Line                 Safety
Harness
      Hoisting Device               Breathing Apparatus

      Emergency SCBA                Safety Line             
Explosion Proof
      (5-minute)                    (2,000 lb. test)        
Lighting

      Tool Bucket with              Non-Sparking Tools      
Aluminum Ladder
      Rope Attached                 

      Explosion Proof               Portable Blower          Radio
      Flashlights                               750 cfm Minimum   
  Comm. Units

      Barricades and                    Fire Extinguisher
      Safety Tape


                       PROTECTIVE CLOTHING


      Hard Hats                     Rubber Boots             rubber
gloves

      Goggles/Face Shields               Rain Suits/Coveralls


*n/a - Not Applicable
    THESE ITEMS ARE REQUIRED TO BE SIGNED BY THE SUPERVISOR

TRAINING

JOB HAZARDS OF SPACE DISCUSSED                                    
                   
     
PROCEDURES REVIEWED                                               
              

RESCUE PROCEDURES REVIEWED                                        
              

PRE-ENTRY DUTIES

CLEARANCE ISSUED                                                  
          N/A
                  (SECTION)            (CLEARANCE NUMBER)

INLETS SECURED/BLINDED                       YES  N/A

ISOLATION POINTS LOCKED OUT/TAGGED      YES   N/A 

SPACE TESTED, RESULTS RECORDED
AND AVAILABLE AT ENTRY SITE.                 YES

Note:     Do not enter if alarm sounds.
     Purge space and re-test.

PURGE TIME                                             N/A

TEST AND VENTILATE JUST PRIOR TO ENTRY. YES

I certify that the above pre-entry check has been conducted and all
indicated equipment is on-site and in good working order.
                                                                  
       
                         CREW SUPERVISOR

APPROVED BY                             DATE                      
   
               (e.g., Shift Superintendent
               or Maintenance Manager)

                        CONFINED SPACES

         Post-Entry Summary (ENTRY NUMBER              )

PROCEDURES AND EQUIPMENT

LOCATION ENTRY AND RESCUE PROCEDURES
REVIEWED; COPY AT WORK SITE                       YES  NO

ATMOSPHERIC ALARMS DURING WORK PROCEDURES    YES       NO

CONTINUOUS VENTILATION PERFORMED             YES       NO

BREATHING APPARATUS, AIR USED                YES       NO

HARNESS AND SAFETY LINES WORN                YES       NO

INJURY SUSTAINED BY WORK CREW PERSONNEL      YES       NO

RESCUE NECESSARY                                  YES  NO

TOTAL TIME PERIOD OF ENTRY PROCEDURE

TOTAL TIME PERSONNEL WORKING INSIDE SPACE

*REMARKS                                                          
                                 

                                                                  
                                          

                                                                  
                                          
*    The REMARKS section of this form shall include a brief summary
     of the work performed.  Include any personnel injuries,
     equipment and/or other problems encountered.  If additional
     space is needed, use the back of this form and/or attach
     additional sheets.

1)   This completed form along with additional atmospheric test
     results (if used), and post-entry summary and training
     documentation shall be submitted to the appropriate manager
     after the completion of a confined space entry.

2)   The Shift Superintendent or Maintenance Manager shall forward
     these completed forms, within 2 days, to the facility Safety
     Coordinator, who shall maintain them for a period of five (5)
     years.             CONFINED SPACES

                    Atmospheric Test results

TEST EQUIPMENT (NAME, MODEL, SERIAL NUMBER)                       
             
                                                                  
            

TIME TESTER    %O2  %LEL H2S       REMARKS

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

1)   Atmospheric tests shall be conducted continuously during a
     confined space entry procedure.  Reading shall be taken every
     ten (10) minutes and recorded on this form

2)   Satisfactory atmospheric conditions are:

          Minimum %O2 - 19.5%
          Maximum % LEL 20%
          Maximum H2S - 10 ppm.