Confined Spaces & Crawl Spaces: Not for the Faint of Heart
Aaron Raber of Spray Foam Solutions, under an historic house in Dalton, Ohio.
Things can go wrong very quickly in crawl spaces, although some applicators have had things go very right. Some crawl spaces can be a near death experience, yet others have yielded unexpected treasures! Crawl spaces or confined spaces are a world unto themselves. Each has its own unique set of circumstances, such as the things you can see and the things you can’t see. They can be profitable, or they can become a dangerous trap. Homeowners are often unaware of the things lurking in their crawl spaces, especially if they are not the original owners. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, a “Confined spaces – such as manholes, crawl spaces, and tanks – are not designed for continuous occupancy and are difficult to exit in the event of an emergency. Confined spaces include crawls spaces, such as attics, basements, and other spaces where there is a one-way access. For more information on confined spaces, visit OSHA https://www.osha.gov/confinedspaces/
Unexpected Encounters in Crawl Spaces
The underside of a concrete slab that holds grain bins.
Things to watch out for:
Asbestos
Mold
Water
Chemicals
Electrical hazards
Sharp objects, such as nails are common
Sewage (this happens more often than you might think)
Pesticide
Critters: decaying and alive, such as possums, raccoons, bats, skunks, rats, snakes
Insects, etc. Animal droppings can produce air-born bacterial or viral contaminants.
Evidence of structural collapse or unstable structures–Examine the columns, posts, piers, girders, joists, and foundations. Workers can become pinned or crushed.
Old wells: Some applicators have reported nearly falling into old, uncovered wells.
Crawl Space Preparedness:
Use appropriate protective gear, including gloves, knee pads and head protection
A respirator mask is recommended
Good lighting (Carry and extra flash light)
A cell phone that works in the crawl space or a two-way radio
Camera, or camera on your cell phone, to document the conditions
Spotter or assistant who can help or call for help. Make sure they stay alert!!
Those working in confined spaces can face life-threatening hazards, such as toxic substances, electrocutions, explosions, and asphyxiation. Shock hazards and chemical hazards are not always obvious and sometimes are not noticed until the worker enters the crawl space. Normal movements can be severely restricted which can lead to panic, especially when the unexpected happens.
(L) 9 1/2 ” Crawl Space (R) Crawl Space in a Barge
A spin-tite or nut driver can help turn off a spray gun fast when necessary. Make sure this tool is secure and reachable. Pushing on the back-emergency stop can help too.
Sharp Objects–Be aware of nails or other sharp objects that could be hanging down
Sewage backups or spills in a crawl space area can happen when you least expect it. Even if the surface seems dry, a previous sewage leak causes contamination and is considered unsafe, unless full protective gear is worn.
Extension Cords–It can be dangerous to plug in an extension cord and trouble light in a wall socket. Using a cord that has GFCI and AFCI is safer.
Spray Gun Jams—Always understand how to unjam a spray gun in case it will not shut off.
Reducing overspray—If there is a need to reduce the amount of overspray in a crawl space, consider using a smaller spray tip and/or reduce the pressure. Always check with the manufacturer to determine how much the pressure can be reduced without compromising the desired results.
Striking Gold!
Some applicators have reported finding money and even gold in crawl spaces. A contractor in New York found $10,000 in cash and returned it to the home owner. Another contractor found a gold bar in a crawl space (pictured above). It turned out to be from a gold scam that occurred several years earlier. The gold bar was valued at $35,000. You just never know what awaits you in a crawl space. Take the time to be well prepared, and let us know what you find!