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 procedure covers the safe entry, work, and exit from confined spaces. It applies to all employees and contractors who may be required to enter confined spaces as part of their work duties. This procedure is applicable in all work environments where confined spaces are present, including but not limited to tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits.

This procedure should be used in conjunction with the Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations and any site-specific confined space entry plans.

2. Definitions

Confined Space
An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not designed for continuous human occupancy and has restricted means of entry or exit.

Hazardous Confined Space
A confined space that presents hazards likely to cause injury, illness, or adverse health effects due to its design, construction, location, atmosphere, or materials within it.

Entry Permit
A document that authorizes entry into a confined space and specifies the conditions under which entry is permitted.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all confined spaces are identified and assessed for hazards.
Verify that all workers entering confined spaces are trained and competent.
Ensure that entry permits are completed and authorized before entry.

3.2 Workers

Follow all procedures and use required PPE when entering confined spaces.
Attend all required training sessions.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in the development and review of confined space entry procedures.
Monitor compliance with confined space entry procedures.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Oxygen deficiency	Asphyxiation	Continuous atmospheric monitoring, ventilation
Toxic gases	Poisoning	Use of gas detectors, ventilation
Engulfment	Suffocation	Ensure space is free of materials that could engulf entrants

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety in confined spaces.

Respirators - Use when atmospheric conditions require.
Hard hats - Protect against head injuries.
Safety harnesses - Required for rescue operations.
Protective clothing - As required by the specific hazards present.
Gloves - Appropriate for the materials handled.

Inspect PPE before use and maintain it according to manufacturer instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Use appropriate equipment and tools for confined space entry.

Gas detectors - For monitoring atmospheric conditions.
Ventilation equipment - To ensure safe air quality.
Communication devices - For maintaining contact with attendants.
Rescue equipment - For emergency situations.
Lighting - Explosion-proof if required.

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in confined space entry procedures, hazard recognition, and emergency response.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review the entry plan, hazards, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the area is clear of hazards and that all necessary equipment is in place and functioning.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Obtain Entry Permit

Ensure an entry permit is completed and authorized before entering the confined space.

Verify permit details.
Confirm atmospheric testing results.
Ensure all safety equipment is available.

Step 2: Conduct Atmospheric Testing

Test the atmosphere for oxygen levels, toxic gases, and flammable substances.

Use calibrated gas detectors.
Record test results on the entry permit.
Ensure continuous monitoring during entry.

Step 3: Enter the Confined Space

Follow safe entry procedures as outlined in the entry permit.

Use PPE as required.
Maintain communication with the attendant.
Follow the entry and exit procedures.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ensure continuous atmospheric monitoring.
Use ventilation to maintain safe air quality.
Maintain communication with attendants at all times.
Follow lockout/tagout procedures for energy sources.
Be prepared to evacuate if conditions change.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate the confined space immediately if an alarm is activated or conditions become unsafe.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Oxygen deficiency - Evacuate and provide fresh air.
Toxic gas exposure - Evacuate and seek medical attention.
Engulfment - Use rescue equipment to extract the worker.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to a supervisor immediately. Investigate incidents to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations
Site-specific confined space entry plans
PPE manufacturer instructions

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