Confined Space Entry Services

lift station

Stormwater systems rely on underground structures to manage water quality and flow. While these systems maximize usable space above ground, they introduce significant safety risks during repairs and maintenance. Limited access points, restricted airflow and potential environmental hazards make confined space entry a critical safety factor of stormwater system care.

At AQUALIS, we provide professional confined space services for commercial and industrial properties where safety and compliance are non-negotiable. Our trained team is authorized to work in permit-required confined spaces and follows OSHA-compliant procedures.

As a single, qualified vendor, our team helps property owners complete essential work safely while meeting federal and state regulatory requirements.

stormwater vactor services

What Is a Confined Space?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a confined space as any area that is:

  • Is large enough for a worker to enter
  • Has limited ways to enter or exit
  • Is not designed for continuous occupancy

Common examples of confined spaces include stormwater vaults, manholes, pipelines and underground chambers.

OSHA also uses the term “permit-required confined space” for confined spaces that contain hazards such as low oxygen levels, dangerous gases, poor lighting or restricted movement.

At AQUALIS, we have the proper training and permits to safely work in all permit-required confined spaces. Our team maintains full compliance with OSHA standards to protect your infrastructure and avoid non-compliance issues. 

Our deep understanding of stormwater and wastewater requirements gives us unmatched knowledge to ensure proper cleaning is performed without damaging systems.

Why Confined Space Entry Matters

Confined space entry services require specialized training, planning and oversight. Underground stormwater systems often involve limited access, poor ventilation and atmospheric hazards that increase the risk of injury or regulatory violations when work is not performed correctly.

Improper entry can lead to OSHA citations, fines, project delays and increased liability. Regulations require hazards to be identified and procedures established before any entry occurs.

In a stormwater system, confined space entry is often unavoidable. Vaults and underground structures must be accessed to maintain performance and meet environmental requirements. 

Professional confined space services from AQUALIS ensure that stormwater maintenance is completed safely to protect workers and infrastructure.  

Three men in protective gear insert a large hose into a manhole

Our Confined Space Entry Services

AQUALIS offers comprehensive maintenance and regular servicing solutions tailored to your property to ensure your stormwater systems operate correctly while extending the life of your investment and avoiding costly NOVs.

Cleaning  of Stormwater Vaults

Stormwater vaults are underground structures designed to manage runoff, improve water quality and control water volume. Over time, sediment, debris and pollutants can accumulate, reducing system performance and increasing the risk of non-compliance. 

Many routine cleaning services can be accomplished utilizing vactor trucks, but in some instances, confined space entry is necessary. Entry may be required for more in-depth cleaning in cases where the vault must be entirely emptied. Confined space entry is also a key requirement for point repairs like injection grouting. AQUALIS is fully authorized to operate in permit-required confined spaces and performs all work in compliance with applicable environmental regulations.

Servicing of Underground Stormwater Systems

Underground stormwater systems consist of pipes, chambers, vaults and treatment devices that manage runoff and protect water quality. To remain effective and compliant, these systems require periodic inspection, cleaning and maintenance, often in below-grade environments with limited access.

AQUALIS provides confined space services to support this work safely and efficiently. Our team follows OSHA-aligned procedures to manage risk during entry and servicing, helping sites meet maintenance requirements while protecting personnel and preserving critical stormwater infrastructure.

Our Certifications

Associated General Contractors of America Badge
Post Construction BMP Inspector Badge
Certified Arborist Badge
Lateral Assessment Certification Program Badge
Manhole Assessment Certification Program Badge

Did you receive an NOV? Have an urgent need? We can help.

Reach out to an AQUALIS representative today.

Contact AQUALIS for Confined Space Entry

Managing stormwater assets can be challenging. Underground retention vaults, storm drains and large pipes require regular inspections and maintenance. However, these confined spaces present unique safety hazards that should only be handled by properly trained and certified personnel.

At AQUALIS, our team has the training, documentation and procedural oversight needed to perform confined space services in high-risk environments. We are dedicated to adapting new technologies and certifications to best serve our clients.  From stormwater vaults and underground systems , we help protect personnel, support regulatory compliance and keep critical infrastructure operating as intended.

Contact us today to discuss your confined space entry needs and learn how our team can support safe, compliant operations at your property.

Confined Space Entry Services - AQUALIS