Is it okay for me to climb into my lauter tun and clean it out while I am waiting for my boil to finish in the kettle?

The Safety Exchange Says: Until you have formally assessed the hazards in the mash tun according to OSHA’s Permit-Required Confined Spaces (PRCS) requirements, the lauter tun will be considered a PRCS.

The good news is that by conducting a proper evaluation of the space and implementing thorough lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures you’ll most likely be able to reclassify the space and safety enter the lauter tun in the future. You will still need to follow a standard procedure for LOTO, hazard control, and personal safety every time. Remember to never enter fermenting vessels or bright tanks without testing for oxygen sufficiency and complying with PRCS and LOTO requirements.