Initial Entry Testing » Visual Inspection
Figure 1: A visual inspection of both the space where work will take place and the adjacent spaces is necessary before starting any work activity
Figure 1: Visual inspection of space.

A visual inspection of both the space where work will take place and all adjacent spaces is necessary before starting any work activity. [29 CFR 1915.12(a), (b), and (c)] Problems must be adequately corrected before any work begins.



Visual Inspection
Figure 2: Standard drop light
Figure 2: Standard drop light.

Figure 3: Explosion-proof area lamp
Figure 3: Explosion-proof area lamp.

Figure 4: Explosion-proof drop light
Figure 4: Explosion-proof drop light.

Figure 5: Marine chemist verifies that piping is secured
Figure 5: Marine chemist verifies that piping is secured.

Figure 6: Adjacent spaces
Figure 6: Adjacent spaces.

The person performing the visual inspection should do at least the following:
  • Determine if ladders or other suitable means are provided to allow safe entry to and exit from a space. [29 CFR 1915.72 and 29 CFR 1915.76]
  • Determine whether coatings and residues in the space may create hazardous atmospheres under work conditions.
  • Ensure that spaces and adjacent spaces that contain or have contained liquids, gases, or solids that are toxic, corrosive, or irritating in nature have been visually inspected and tested before initial entry [29 CFR 1915.12(b)]. Ensure appropriate action has been taken to make the space safe before entry.
  • Ensure that adequate illumination that is appropriate for the present conditions and safe work performance in the space is provided. [29 CFR 1915.12(b)] Explosion-proof lights may also be required. [29 CFR 1915.13(b)(9)]
  • Ensure that alternative illumination is provided in the event of power failure of temporary lighting. [29 CFR 1915.92(d)]
  • Ensure that good housekeeping conditions are maintained at all times. [29 CFR 1915.91(a) and (b)]
  • Ensure that  pipelines that could carry hazardous materials into the space while workers are present are disconnected, blanked off, or otherwise blocked by positive method. [29 CFR 1915.15(a)]
  • Evaluate adjacent spaces or work being carried out in adjacent spaces to ensure that no hazardous conditions may be created for personnel working in subject space. [29 CFR 1915.12(a), (b), and (c)]
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