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 into permit-required confined spaces in compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146. It applies to all employees and contractors involved in confined space entry operations in general industry settings, excluding agriculture, construction, and shipyard employment.

This procedure should be used in conjunction with other relevant safety procedures, such as lockout/tagout and emergency response plans.

2. Definitions

Acceptable Entry Conditions
Conditions that must exist in a permit space to allow entry and ensure safety.

Attendant
An individual stationed outside one or more permit spaces who monitors the authorized entrants.

Authorized Entrant
An employee authorized by the employer to enter a permit space.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all confined space entries are conducted in compliance with this procedure.
Verify that all necessary equipment and PPE are available and in good condition.
Ensure that all personnel involved in the entry are properly trained.

3.2 Workers

Follow all procedures and instructions related to confined space entry.
Use all required PPE and equipment properly.
Report any unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of confined space entry procedures.
Participate in incident investigations related to confined space entries.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Hazardous Atmosphere	Asphyxiation, poisoning	Continuous air monitoring, ventilation
Engulfment	Entrapment, suffocation	Use of retrieval systems, proper training
Physical Hazards	Injury from equipment or falls	Use of barriers, proper lighting

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety during confined space entry.

Respirators - Required if atmospheric hazards are present.
Full-body harness - For retrieval in case of emergency.
Protective clothing - To prevent exposure to hazardous substances.
Safety helmet - To protect against head injuries.
Safety boots - To protect feet from physical hazards.

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Proper equipment and tools are necessary for safe entry and work in confined spaces.

Gas detectors - For monitoring atmospheric conditions.
Ventilation equipment - To ensure safe air quality.
Communication devices - For maintaining contact with attendants.
Retrieval systems - For emergency rescue operations.
Lighting equipment - To ensure visibility inside the space.

Inspect and maintain all equipment regularly.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All personnel 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 secure, signs are posted, and all necessary equipment is in place.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Preparation

Identify the confined space and its hazards.
Obtain and review the entry permit.
Ensure all equipment and PPE are ready.

Step 2: Entry

Conduct atmospheric testing before entry.
Set up ventilation and retrieval systems.
Enter the space with proper PPE.

Step 3: Work and Exit

Perform the assigned tasks safely.
Maintain communication with the attendant.
Exit the space safely and complete the entry log.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ensure continuous monitoring of atmospheric conditions.
Use retrieval systems for all entries.
Maintain clear communication with attendants.
Follow all permit requirements strictly.
Be prepared to evacuate immediately if conditions change.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate the space immediately if a hazardous condition is detected.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Hazardous Atmosphere - Evacuate and ventilate the space.
Entrapment - Use retrieval systems for rescue.
Medical Emergency - Call for medical assistance and provide first aid.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents and near-misses immediately. Conduct investigations to identify causes and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146
[Reference 2]
[Reference 3]

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