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 environments where confined spaces are identified and assessed as hazardous or potentially hazardous.

Related procedures and documents include the Confined Space Entry Permit, Hazard Assessment Reports, and Emergency Response Plans.

2. Definitions

Confined Space
An enclosed or partially enclosed space not designed for continuous human occupancy, with restricted access or exit, and which may become hazardous due to its design, atmosphere, or materials within it [1].

Hazardous Confined Space
A confined space that presents hazards likely to cause injury or illness due to its design, atmosphere, or materials [2].

Entry Permit
A document that authorizes entry into a confined space and specifies the work to be done, hazards involved, and precautions to be taken [3].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure all confined spaces are identified and assessed for hazards [4].
• Verify that all workers entering confined spaces are trained and competent [5].
• Ensure that entry permits are completed and authorized before entry [3].

3.2 Workers

• Follow all procedures and use protective equipment as required [6].
• Report any hazards or unsafe conditions immediately [5].
• Participate in training and emergency drills [5].

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of confined space procedures [7].
• Participate in hazard assessments and inspections [4].

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Oxygen deficiency	Asphyxiation	Continuous atmospheric monitoring and ventilation [8]
Toxic gases	Poisoning	Use of gas detectors and PPE [9]
Engulfment	Suffocation	Ensure space is free of materials that could engulf [10]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety in confined spaces.

• Respirators - Use supplied air respirators if required [8].
• Gas detectors - For continuous monitoring of atmospheric conditions [9].
• Harness and lifeline - For safe entry and exit [10].
• Protective clothing - To prevent contact with hazardous substances [6].
• Communication devices - For maintaining contact with attendants [3].

Inspect PPE before use and maintain according to manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Use appropriate equipment and tools for confined space work.

• Ventilation systems - To maintain safe atmospheric conditions [8].
• Lighting - Explosion-proof lighting if required [10].
• Rescue equipment - For emergency situations [11].
• Atmospheric testing devices - For pre-entry and continuous monitoring [9].
• Barriers and signs - To prevent unauthorized entry [4].

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in confined space entry, hazard recognition, and emergency procedures [5].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review the entry plan, hazards, and emergency procedures [12].

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the area is secure, signs are posted, and all necessary equipment is in place [4].

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Hazard Assessment

Conduct a thorough hazard assessment before entry.

• Identify potential atmospheric and physical hazards [4].
• Determine necessary controls and PPE [5].
• Document findings and communicate to all involved [4].

Step 2: Entry Permit

Complete and authorize an entry permit.

• List all hazards and control measures [3].
• Specify work to be done and duration [3].
• Ensure all signatures are obtained before entry [3].

Step 3: Entry and Work

Follow safe entry and work procedures.

• Use PPE and equipment as specified [6].
• Maintain communication with attendants [3].
• Monitor atmospheric conditions continuously [8].

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Ensure continuous atmospheric monitoring [8].
• Use proper ventilation to maintain safe conditions [8].
• Establish a communication system with attendants [3].
• Have rescue equipment readily available [11].
• Prohibit unauthorized entry [4].

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate immediately if a hazardous condition arises [8].

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Toxic gas release - Evacuate and ventilate [8].
• Oxygen deficiency - Use supplied air respirators [8].
• Engulfment - Use rescue equipment for extraction [10].

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 root causes and implement corrective actions [5].

12. References and Related Documents

• Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)
• Occupational Safety General Regulations (N.S. Reg. 44/99)
• Occupational Health and Safety Code

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

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