04.07 Is a tank room an OSHA confined space?

A confined space is defined by OSHA as a space with limited or restricted means for entry or exit, and not designed for continuous employee occupancy. So properly lit and ventilated tank rooms with adequate access and egress may avoid the confined space designation.

A tank storage room may be constructed like a vault with access only through roof openings, and this type of room, would typically be considered a confined space. Because the room has fuel in it, the space would further be classified as a permit space with additional safety requirements for personnel entry.