Confined Space Hazards
Tanks and vessels can be permit-required confined spaces.
This is general education, not an engineered safety design, fire-code approval, process-hazard analysis or operating procedure.
Why this hazard matters
Tanks and vessels can be permit-required confined spaces. Distillation combines heat, volatile liquids, pressure, utilities and material handling in ways that require engineered controls.
Use the hierarchy of controls
Eliminate or reduce the hazard through process and equipment design, then use ventilation, guarding, interlocks, procedures, training and protective equipment.
Coordinate with authorities
Fire, building, electrical, boiler, occupational-safety and environmental requirements overlap. Resolve them before commissioning.
Stop abnormal operation
Leaks, unexpected pressure, loss of cooling, unusual odor, vibration, heat, failed ventilation or disabled controls require shutdown and investigation.