When must a sign be applied to entry points of permit-required confined spaces in general industry?

Once an employer has determined a permit-required confined space exists, the employer is obligated by 29 CFR 1910.146(c)(2) to inform exposed employees of the existence and location of and the danger posed by the permit spaces, either by posting a sign or by other effective means. (A sign reading “DANGER — PERMIT-REQUIRED CONFINED SPACE, DO NOT ENTER” or using other similar language would satisfy the requirement for a sign.)

Since the purpose of subparagraph (c)(2) is to provide the exposed employees with information to protect them from the hazard, the “when” an employee must be informed is before and during the next entry.