What is the federal regulation governing confined spaces in the U.S.?

The federal regulation governing confined spaces in the U.S. is found in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), specifically under OSHA standards for confined spaces. These regulations are designed to protect workers who enter and work in confined spaces, which can pose significant hazards such as toxic atmospheres, engulfment, and limited means of entry or exit.

The CFR outlines specific requirements for employers, including the need to evaluate the hazards of a confined space, implement a permit system, provide training for workers, and ensure that rescue procedures are in place. This comprehensive approach ensures that workers can safely conduct their tasks within these potentially dangerous environments.

In contrast, the other options do not provide the same federal regulatory framework specifically focused on confined spaces. The State safety act typically pertains to state-level regulations rather than federal, and the National safety code does not specifically address confined space regulations in a formal manner. OSHA State plan refers to state-level plans approved by OSHA but does not specifically create the baseline federal regulatory standards applicable to confined spaces, making the Code of Federal Regulations the correct and comprehensive authority on this matter.