What primary factor should be addressed before entering a confined space?

Before entering a confined space, addressing potential atmospheric hazards is crucial for ensuring the safety of workers. Confined spaces often have limited ventilation, which can lead to the accumulation of hazardous gases, insufficient oxygen levels, or the presence of flammable materials. Assessing these hazards through appropriate monitoring and testing procedures is essential to identify risks that could lead to dangerous situations such as asphyxiation, explosions, or toxic exposure.

While the comfort of workers, furniture arrangement, and nearby distractions may be relevant in other contexts, these factors do not directly influence the immediate health and safety risks associated with confined space entry. Prioritizing atmospheric hazards is vital because it directly impacts the ability to enter and work safely within confined spaces, making it the primary concern that must be addressed before any entry is made.