California ICC UST Service Technician Practice Exam

When should air monitoring be conducted during work within a confined space?

1. Before and after

2. Only after

3. Only before

4. Every hour

The correct answer is: Before and after

Air monitoring is crucial in confined spaces to ensure worker safety and compliance with health regulations. Conducting monitoring both before and after work within a confined space allows for a comprehensive assessment of the atmospheric conditions. Before entering, air monitoring helps to identify any hazardous conditions, such as the presence of toxic gases, oxygen deficiency, or flammable atmospheres, which may pose a risk to workers. This initial assessment informs safety measures or the need for ventilation before entry. After work is completed, monitoring ensures that the space remains safe for subsequent entries or for the re-entry of personnel. It provides assurance that no hazardous conditions have developed during the work process that could endanger future workers or personnel coming into the space. This dual approach to air monitoring aligns with best practices in industrial hygiene and safety protocols, ensuring that both pre-existing risks and potential changes during the work process are addressed effectively.