• Employees may follow alternate entry procedures to enter permit spaces if the space meets certain conditions.
• A permit space on a construction worksite may be reclassified as a non-permit confined space in some circumstances.

Unlike a space that contains only physical hazards, a permit space containing an atmospheric hazard cannot be reclassified as a non-permit space. However, if the atmospheric hazard in a permit space can be controlled by forced air ventilation, the employer may use less stringent procedures instead of full permit space procedures when workers enter the space. The alternate entry procedures may be used if the employer can show that:

• All physical hazards have been eliminated or isolated,
• The only hazard is an actual or potential hazardous atmosphere that has been made safe for entry using continuous forced air ventilation, and
• Entrants can exit the space safely if the ventilation system ever stops working.
• An employer who uses the alternate procedures must document the reasons and supporting data for concluding that these criteria are met. The documentation must be made available to each worker who enters the space or to that worker’s authorized representative.

Comparison of requirements for permit-required spaces and alternate procedure spaces (Construction)

The following table compares the requirements for spaces where permits are required and the requirements for spaces where alternate procedures are permitted.