California Updates Confined Space Rules for Construction
New rules aim to strengthen worker protections in hazardous construction environments.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Jan 07, 2026
California has adopted updated confined space safety standards for the construction industry that take effect Jan. 1, 2026, aiming to improve worker protection and clarify regulatory requirements.
The revised standards, approved by the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board, update Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations to align construction confined space rules with current federal and industry practices. They are intended to help employers better identify, evaluate, and control hazards associated with confined spaces on jobsites.
Key changes include expanded definitions of confined spaces and related hazards, updated procedures for entry permits and atmospheric testing, and clearer requirements for training, rescue planning, and communication among workers and supervisors. The revisions also address employer obligations to reassess spaces when conditions change.
Cal/OSHA officials said the updated rules reflect advances in safety practices and aim to reduce fatalities, injuries, and near misses linked to hazardous construction environments such as tanks, vaults, silos, and pits.
Employers and safety professionals are advised to review the new regulatory language and ensure workplace programs are updated to comply before the standards become enforceable at the start of the new year.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.