Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a confined space?

1. Is large enough for an employee to enter fully and perform assigned work

2. Designed for continuous occupancy by the employee

3. Has limited or restricted means of entry or exit

4. Contains recognized serious safety or health hazards

The correct answer is: Designed for continuous occupancy by the employee

In the context of confined spaces, the characteristics include specific features that define such spaces primarily concerning safety and accessibility. The correct answer indicates that a confined space is not designed for continuous occupancy by an employee. Typically, a confined space is characterized by its limited means of entry and exit, which inherently makes it unsuitable for continuous occupancy. These spaces are usually designed for specific tasks to be performed intermittently rather than being occupied continuously. The intent behind identifying confined spaces is linked to safety; they often have hazardous conditions that pose significant risks, such as toxic atmospheres or physical hazards, which are not conducive to long-term occupancy. The other characteristics mentioned are indeed essential to defining a confined space. It must be large enough for a worker to enter and complete their assigned tasks, possess limited access points, and potentially hold serious hazards that necessitate special precautions and training for employees who work within such environments. Thus, not being designed for continuous occupancy is what makes the option a characteristic that is not inherent to confined spaces.