# Labor and Employment (GLE)

## Title 5. Occupational Safety and Health

### Subtitle 6

#### Section 5-602

(a)

  (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

  (2) "Confined space" means a space that, by design:

    (i) has limited openings for entry and exit; and

    (ii) is subject to:

      (1) the accumulation of a combustible agent;

      (2) an accumulation of a toxic agent; or

      (3) a deficiency of oxygen.

  (3) "Confined space" includes:

    (i) a basin;

    (ii) a bin;

    (iii) a degreaser;

    (iv) a duct;

    (v) a pipeline;

    (vi) a pit;

    (vii) a sewer;

    (viii) a silo;

    (ix) a tank that is enclosed or has an open top;

    (x) a tub;

    (xi) a tunnel;

    (xii) a vat;

    (xiii) a process vessel; or

    (xiv) a reaction vessel.

  (4) "Maintenance work" means cleaning, inspection, maintenance, painting, repair, servicing, or other similar work.

(b) A person described in Sec. 5-101(d)(2)(ii) or (iii) of this title may not allow or cause an individual described in Sec. 5-101(c)(2)(iii) or (iv) of this title to do maintenance work in a confined space, unless the Commissioner:

  (1) grants written authorization based on a satisfactory showing that work practices in effect will protect the health and safety of the individual; or

  (2) in accordance with Subtitle 3 of this title, passes an order for a variance.

(c)

  (1) This subsection applies only to an employer who is a subcontractor.

  (2) Each subcontractor who, under an original contract or subcontract, is to do maintenance work in a confined space shall give the Commissioner:

    (i) at the commencement of the maintenance work, oral notice of the maintenance work to be performed; and

    (ii) within 24 hours after the oral notice, written notice of the maintenance work.

---

Md. Code Ann., Lab. & Empl. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)