Safe Work Procedure: Confined Space Entry

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary steps and safety precautions to be followed when entering, working in, and exiting confined spaces. It applies to all personnel who may be required to enter a confined space to perform work. This procedure aims to minimize the risks associated with confined space entry by providing a systematic approach to hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measure implementation [1].

This SWP applies to any enclosed or partially enclosed space that meets the definition of a confined space, including but not limited to tanks, vessels, silos, pits, and underground vaults [2]. It is applicable in situations where the space is not designed for continuous human occupancy and has limited or restricted means of entry or exit 11, 13, 14, 16.

This SWP should be used in conjunction with other relevant safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout procedures, Hazard Communication procedures, and Emergency Response procedures.

2. Definitions

Confined Space: A space that (a) is enclosed or partially enclosed; (b) is not designed or intended for continuous human occupancy; and (c) has limited or restricted means of entry or exit that may complicate the provision of first aid, evacuation, rescue or any other emergency response 11, 13, 14, 16.

Hazardous Atmosphere: An atmosphere that may expose employees to the risk of death, incapacitation, impairment of ability to self-rescue, injury, or acute illness [3].

Entry Permit: A written document issued by a competent person to authorize entry into a confined space, ensuring that all necessary precautions have been taken 1, 15.

Attendant: An individual stationed outside one or more permit spaces who monitors the authorized entrants and who performs all attendant's duties assigned in the employer's permit space program 14, 16.

Entrant: An employee who is authorized by the employer to enter a permit space 14, 16.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that a confined space entry procedure is established and followed 1, 6.
Ensure that all workers involved in confined space entry are adequately trained and competent 2, 6, 8.
Ensure that a hazard assessment is conducted by a competent person before any confined space entry 2, 6.
Ensure that all necessary safety equipment, including PPE and rescue equipment, is available and in good working order 2, 6, 15.
Issue entry permits and ensure that they are properly completed and readily available at the entrance to the confined space 1, 15.

3.2 Workers

Participate in required training programs and understand the hazards associated with confined space entry 2, 6, 8.
Follow the established confined space entry procedures and the instructions provided in the entry permit 1, 6.
Use the required personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety equipment 2, 6, 15.
Monitor the atmosphere within the confined space and be aware of potential changes in conditions 5, 6.
Immediately evacuate the confined space if an alarm is activated or if any hazardous conditions are detected 6, 10.
Report any hazards or concerns to the supervisor 6, 11.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in the development and review of confined space entry procedures 1, 8.
Provide guidance and support to supervisors and workers on confined space safety 1, 8.
Monitor compliance with confined space entry procedures and regulations 1, 8.
Investigate incidents and near misses related to confined space entry 1, 8.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Oxygen Deficiency	Asphyxiation, loss of consciousness, death	Test atmosphere before entry; provide ventilation; use supplied air respirator 5, 6, 10
Toxic Gases/Vapors	Acute or chronic illness, poisoning, irritation	Test atmosphere before entry; provide ventilation; use appropriate respiratory protection 5, 6, 10
Flammable/Explosive Atmospheres	Fire, explosion, burns, death	Test atmosphere before entry; eliminate ignition sources; use intrinsically safe equipment 5, 6, 17, 18
Engulfment	Suffocation, crushing, death	Eliminate potential for engulfment; lock out and tag out sources of materials; use a body harness and lifeline 14, 17, 18
Hazardous Energy	Electrocution, burns, crushing, cutting	Implement Lockout/Tagout procedures; verify isolation of energy sources 15, 20
Falls	Injury, fractures, death	Use fall protection equipment; ensure proper access and egress; guard openings 9, 18
Poor Visibility	Slips, trips, falls, inability to identify hazards	Provide adequate lighting; use reflective clothing 9, 18
Extreme Temperatures	Heat stress, heat stroke, hypothermia	Provide ventilation; use cooling or warming equipment; schedule work during cooler/warmer periods 9, 18
Biological Hazards	Infection, illness	Use appropriate PPE; practice good hygiene; follow specific protocols for handling biological materials 9, 18
Configuration Hazards	Entrapment, difficulty in rescue	Use retrieval systems; have attendant monitor entrant; ensure adequate space for movement 9, 18

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE must be used at all times when working in or around confined spaces to minimize the risk of injury or illness 2, 6, 15.

Hard Hat - Protects the head from falling objects and impacts 2, 6, 15.
Safety Glasses/Goggles - Protects the eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes 2, 6, 15.
Gloves - Protects the hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure. Select the appropriate type of glove based on the specific hazards present 2, 6, 15.
Safety Boots - Provides foot protection from impacts, punctures, and slips. Steel-toed boots are recommended 2, 6, 15.
Respiratory Protection - Use an appropriate respirator (e.g., air-purifying respirator or supplied-air respirator) when the atmosphere cannot be adequately ventilated or when hazardous airborne contaminants are present 5, 6, 10.
Harness and Lifeline - Required when there is a potential for falls or when retrieval is necessary. Ensure the lifeline is attached to a secure anchor point outside the confined space 15, 18.
Protective Clothing - Wear appropriate protective clothing (e.g., coveralls, chemical suits) to protect against specific hazards such as chemical exposure or extreme temperatures 15, 18.

Inspect all PPE before each use to ensure it is in good condition and functioning properly. Replace any damaged or defective PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Only use equipment and tools that are in good working condition and appropriate for the specific hazards present in the confined space 2, 6, 15.

Atmospheric Monitoring Equipment - Used to test the atmosphere for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic substances before and during entry 5, 6, 10.
Ventilation Equipment - Used to provide continuous ventilation to maintain a safe atmosphere within the confined space 4, 6, 10, 12.
Lighting Equipment - Use explosion-proof lighting to provide adequate illumination within the confined space 9, 18.
Communication Equipment - Use radios or other communication devices to maintain constant contact between the entrant and the attendant 4, 6, 15.
Retrieval System - A system used to rescue an incapacitated entrant from the confined space. This may include a harness, lifeline, and winch 4, 6, 15.
Lockout/Tagout Equipment - Used to isolate energy sources and prevent the accidental release of hazardous energy 15, 20.

Inspect all equipment and tools before each use to ensure they are in good working condition. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use and maintenance.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All workers who may be required to enter a confined space must receive comprehensive training on confined space hazards, entry procedures, and rescue techniques 2, 6, 8. Training must include:

Hazard recognition and assessment 2, 6, 8.
Use of atmospheric monitoring equipment 2, 6, 8.
Proper selection, use, and maintenance of PPE 2, 6, 8.
Lockout/Tagout procedures 2, 6, 8.
Entry permit procedures 2, 6, 8.
Rescue and emergency procedures 2, 6, 8.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Before any confined space entry, conduct a pre-job briefing with all involved personnel. The briefing should cover:

The scope of the work to be performed 1, 8.
The identified hazards and associated risks 1, 8.
The control measures to be implemented 1, 8.
The proper use of PPE and safety equipment 1, 8.
The entry permit requirements 1, 8.
Emergency procedures and communication protocols 1, 8.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Isolate the confined space by disconnecting all pipelines and equipment that could introduce hazardous materials or energy 4, 15, 20.
Lockout and tag out all energy sources according to established procedures 15, 20.
Barricade the entrance to the confined space to prevent unauthorized entry 3, 11.
Ensure adequate lighting is provided in and around the confined space 9, 18.
Provide ventilation to ensure a safe atmosphere within the confined space 4, 6, 10, 12.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Hazard Assessment and Permit Acquisition

Before entering any confined space, a competent person must perform a thorough hazard assessment to identify potential risks such as atmospheric hazards, engulfment hazards, and physical hazards 2, 6.

Sub-step 1.1: Identify the confined space and its contents 2, 6.
Sub-step 1.2: Review previous hazard assessments and entry permits for the space 2, 6.
Sub-step 1.3: Conduct atmospheric testing for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic substances 2, 6.
Sub-step 1.4: Identify potential engulfment hazards and energy sources 2, 6.
Sub-step 1.5: Determine the necessary control measures, PPE, and rescue equipment 2, 6.
Sub-step 1.6: Complete the entry permit, ensuring all required information is included and the permit is signed by a competent person 2, 6.

Safety Considerations: Ensure the hazard assessment is thorough and accurate. Do not enter the confined space without a valid entry permit 2, 6.

Step 2: Preparation and Ventilation

Prepare the confined space for entry by isolating it from all potential hazards and providing adequate ventilation 4, 6, 10, 12.

Sub-step 2.1: Disconnect and lockout/tagout all pipelines and equipment that could introduce hazardous materials or energy 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 2.2: Provide continuous ventilation to the confined space to remove or dilute any hazardous atmospheres 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 2.3: Monitor the atmosphere continuously to ensure it remains within acceptable limits 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 2.4: Ensure proper lighting is in place 4, 6, 10, 12.

Safety Considerations: Ensure that ventilation equipment is properly grounded and positioned to avoid creating additional hazards. Never enter a confined space that has not been adequately ventilated and tested 4, 6, 10, 12.

Step 3: Entry and Work

Enter the confined space and perform the required work, following all safety precautions and monitoring the atmosphere continuously 4, 6, 10, 12.

Sub-step 3.1: Don all required PPE, including respiratory protection, harness, and lifeline 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 3.2: Maintain constant communication with the attendant outside the confined space 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 3.3: Monitor the atmosphere continuously for any changes in conditions 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 3.4: Perform the work safely and efficiently, following all established procedures 4, 6, 10, 12.

Safety Considerations: If any hazardous conditions are detected, evacuate the confined space immediately. Do not exceed the time limit specified on the entry permit 4, 6, 10, 12.

Step 4: Exit and Closure

Exit the confined space and properly close it, ensuring all equipment is removed and the area is left in a safe condition 4, 6, 10, 12.

Sub-step 4.1: Remove all tools, equipment, and debris from the confined space 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 4.2: Inspect the confined space to ensure no hazards remain 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 4.3: Remove all PPE and clean or dispose of it properly 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 4.4: Close and secure the confined space entrance 4, 6, 10, 12.
Sub-step 4.5: Cancel the entry permit and document any relevant information 4, 6, 10, 12.

Safety Considerations: Ensure that the confined space is properly secured to prevent unauthorized entry. Report any incidents or near misses to the supervisor 4, 6, 10, 12.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Atmospheric Testing: Always test the atmosphere before entering a confined space and continuously monitor it during occupancy to ensure safe oxygen levels, and absence of toxic or flammable gases 5, 6, 10.
Ventilation: Provide continuous ventilation to maintain a safe atmosphere within the confined space. Ensure that the ventilation system is functioning properly and does not introduce additional hazards 4, 6, 10, 12.
Lockout/Tagout: Implement Lockout/Tagout procedures to isolate energy sources and prevent the accidental release of hazardous energy. Verify the isolation of energy sources before entering the confined space 15, 20.
Communication: Maintain constant communication between the entrant and the attendant outside the confined space. Use radios or other communication devices to ensure effective communication 4, 6, 15.
Emergency Preparedness: Develop and implement emergency procedures to be followed in the event of an accident or other emergency. Ensure that rescue equipment is readily available and that all personnel are trained in its use 4, 6, 15.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, the following general procedures should be followed:

Immediately evacuate the confined space 6, 10.
Activate the emergency alarm system 6, 10.
Contact emergency services and provide them with the location and nature of the emergency 6, 10.
Provide first aid and medical assistance to any injured personnel 6, 10.
Do not re-enter the confined space until it has been declared safe by a competent person 6, 10.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Atmospheric Hazard: Evacuate immediately. Increase ventilation and re-test the atmosphere before re-entry 5, 6, 10.
Entrapment: Activate retrieval system. Contact emergency services if necessary 5, 6, 10.
Injury or Illness: Provide first aid and evacuate the injured person. Contact emergency services if necessary 5, 6, 10.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
[Company Medical]: [PHONE NUMBER]
[Safety Department]: [PHONE NUMBER]
[Supervisor]: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, near-misses, and hazards related to confined space entry must be reported to the supervisor and investigated to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence. The investigation should include:

Gathering information about the incident 1, 8.
Identifying the factors that contributed to the incident 1, 8.
Developing and implementing corrective actions 1, 8.
Monitoring the effectiveness of the corrective actions 1, 8.

12. References and Related Documents

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304) 1, 3, 13
Occupational Health and Safety Code 2, 10, 15
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020) [4]
Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon) 5, 9, 12, 18, 19
Occupational Safety General Regulations (N.S. Reg. 44/99) 6, 7, 11
General Regulation (N.B. Reg. 91-191) 8, 16, 17, 20
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146 Permit-Required Confined Spaces [2]

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]