Workers in confined spaces to come under protection rule

WASHINGTON — Construction workers in confined spaces like manholes and tanks will come under a new federal rule intended to give them similar protections to workers in manufacturing and other industries.

The rule is being issued by the Labor Department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Officials say it will prevent about 800 serious injuries and deaths each year. It takes effect Aug. 3.

Workers in confined spaces face risks of exposure to toxic substances, electrocution, asphyxiation and explosions. Under the rule, multiple employers at a work site such as contractors will be required to share safety information and continuously monitor hazards.

Officials say the rule likely would have prevented the deaths of two workers in Ohio last year who were overcome by fumes and asphyxiated while repairing leaks in a manhole.