The confined space. A review of a recently discerned medical entity.

This paper presents an extensive review of the literature relating to the industrial confined space. It defines the various types of confined spaces, classifies their associated noxious atmospheres, and identifies the potential hazards of each. A newly recognized confined space, the environment of the surgical amphitheater in which the surgical patient undergoes general anesthesia, has been added. Pathological alterations bearing upon these hazards and the forensic principles of confined space injuries are examined in depth. In addition, recent methods are described for prevention and control of the perils of the confined space.