Click on “Download PDF” for the PDF version or on the title for the HTML version.

If you are not an ASABE member or if your employer has not arranged for access to the full-text, Click here for options.

Toxic atmospheres are encountered frequently in livestock manure storage facilities. At least 16 U.S. agricultural production workers died from 1980 to 1985 attempting to enter and perform work in manure storage facilities. In other industries, labor regulations and standards specify safe confined space entry procedures, but production agriculture has been excluded from most legal requirements. The cost of compliance is believed to be one reason for agricultures exemption from regulatory requirements.

This research examined the cost that would be associated with livestock producers partial compliance with a new industrial confined space entry standard promulgated by OSHA. Cost data from 25 manufacturers were analyzed to determine the minimum cost of appropriate monitoring, rescue and ventilation equipment. An initial investment of over $3,100 would be required, with annual costs ranging from $429 to $833. The article concludes with recommendations for ways to make needed equipment more accessible to livestock producers.