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 precautions to be taken before and during entry into confined spaces to ensure the safety and health of all personnel involved. This procedure applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who may be required to enter a confined space at [COMPANY/SITE NAME]. It covers the identification of potential hazards, atmospheric testing, ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), entry permits, and emergency procedures [1]. This SWP aims to minimize the risks associated with confined space entry by providing a systematic approach to hazard assessment and control [1].

This procedure applies to all confined spaces as defined in this document and any related activities performed within them. It is applicable in various work environments, including but not limited to manufacturing plants, construction sites, and maintenance facilities. This SWP should be used in conjunction with other relevant safety procedures, such as Lockout/Tagout, Hazard Communication, and Emergency Response Plans [2].

2. Definitions

Confined Space:
A fully or partially enclosed space that is not primarily designed or intended for continuous human occupancy, has limited or restricted entrance or exit, and can represent a risk for the health and safety of anyone who enters [3].

Attendant:
A trained worker posted outside the confined space who continuously monitors the workers inside, maintains communication, and is responsible for initiating emergency procedures 3, 6.

Entry Permit:
A written document that authorizes entry into a confined space after a hazard assessment has been completed and control measures are in place 1, 3.

Hazard Assessment:
A comprehensive evaluation of potential hazards within the confined space, including atmospheric conditions, physical hazards, and process-related risks 2, 5.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that a hazard assessment is conducted before any confined space entry 2, 5.
• Ensure that all workers involved are properly trained and competent to perform their assigned tasks 7, 17.
• Issue entry permits and verify that all required safety measures are in place before entry is allowed 1, 3.
• Ensure that all necessary equipment, including PPE and monitoring devices, are available and in good working condition [4].
• Monitor the work being performed and address any safety concerns that may arise [5].

3.2 Workers

• Participate in required training and understand the hazards associated with confined space entry 7, 17.
• Follow all safety procedures and instructions outlined in the entry permit and pre-job briefing 3, 7.
• Use required PPE and equipment properly and report any defects or malfunctions [4].
• Monitor atmospheric conditions and immediately evacuate the confined space if any hazards are detected 3, 6.
• Maintain communication with the attendant and report any concerns or changes in conditions 3, 6.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of confined space entry procedures [6].
• Provide guidance and support to supervisors and workers on confined space safety [6].
• Conduct periodic audits of confined space entry activities to ensure compliance with regulations and procedures [6].
• Investigate incidents and near-misses related to confined space entry and recommend corrective actions [7].

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Oxygen Deficiency	Asphyxiation, loss of consciousness, death	Conduct atmospheric testing before entry; ensure continuous ventilation; use air-supplied respirators 9, 11
Toxic Gases (e.g., H2S, CO)	Illness, poisoning, loss of consciousness, death	Conduct atmospheric testing before entry; ensure continuous ventilation; use appropriate respirators 9, 11
Flammable Atmospheres	Fire, explosion	Conduct atmospheric testing before entry; eliminate ignition sources; use intrinsically safe equipment; ensure proper ventilation 9, 14
Engulfment (e.g., shifting materials)	Suffocation, crushing	Remove or stabilize materials; use barriers and restraints; implement lockout/tagout procedures 9, 16
Physical Hazards (e.g., moving parts, sharp objects)	Injury, entanglement	Implement lockout/tagout procedures; use machine guarding; wear appropriate PPE 9, 16
Electrical Hazards	Electrocution, burns	De-energize and lockout electrical equipment; use insulated tools and PPE; ensure proper grounding 9, 16
Poor Visibility	Slips, trips, falls, difficulty in rescue	Provide adequate lighting; use reflective clothing; ensure clear communication [8]
Extreme Temperatures (Heat or Cold)	Heat stress, hypothermia	Provide ventilation or heating; use cooling or warming PPE; schedule work during cooler/warmer periods; provide frequent breaks [8]
Biological Hazards (e.g., bacteria, viruses)	Infection, illness	Use appropriate PPE (gloves, respirators); practice good hygiene; disinfect equipment [8]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for protecting workers from the hazards associated with confined space entry. All PPE must be inspected before each use to ensure it is in good condition and functioning properly [4].

• Hard Hat - Protects the head from impact and falling objects.
• Safety Glasses/Goggles - Protects the eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes.
• Gloves - Protects the hands from chemical exposure, cuts, and abrasions. Select the appropriate type of glove based on the specific hazards present [9].
• Safety Boots - Provides foot protection from impact, punctures, and chemical exposure. Ensure boots are slip-resistant [9].
• Respirator - Protects the respiratory system from hazardous atmospheres. Use air-purifying respirators (APRs) or self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) as required by the hazard assessment and air monitoring results 2, 20.
• Full Body Harness with Lifeline - Used for fall protection and retrieval in case of emergency. Ensure the harness fits properly and is connected to a suitable anchor point [4].
• Hearing Protection - Protects hearing from excessive noise levels. Use earplugs or earmuffs as needed [9].
• Protective Clothing - Provides protection against chemical splashes, extreme temperatures, and other hazards. Use appropriate materials such as Tyvek or flame-resistant clothing [9].

Inspect PPE before each use for damage, wear, and proper fit. Clean and maintain PPE according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace damaged or worn PPE immediately [4].

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the right equipment and tools is critical for performing work safely in confined spaces. All equipment must be inspected before each use to ensure it is in good working condition [4].

• Atmospheric Monitoring Equipment - Used to test the air quality for oxygen levels, toxic gases, and flammable substances. Calibrate and bump test the equipment before each use [10].
• Ventilation Equipment (Blowers/Fans) - Used to provide continuous ventilation and maintain a safe atmosphere. Ensure the equipment is properly grounded and positioned to provide effective airflow 2, 14.
• Communication Equipment (Two-Way Radios) - Used to maintain constant communication between workers inside the confined space and the attendant outside 3, 6.
• Lighting Equipment (Intrinsically Safe Lights) - Used to provide adequate lighting inside the confined space. Ensure lights are explosion-proof and suitable for the environment 9, 14.
• Retrieval System (Tripod, Winch, Lifeline) - Used to rescue workers from the confined space in case of emergency. Ensure the system is properly set up and rated for the intended load 7, 20.
• Lockout/Tagout Equipment - Used to de-energize and isolate hazardous energy sources. Follow proper lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental start-up of equipment [2].
• Hand Tools (Spark-Resistant Tools) - Used for performing tasks inside the confined space. Ensure tools are non-sparking to prevent ignition of flammable atmospheres [11].

Inspect equipment and tools before each use for damage, wear, and proper function. Maintain equipment according to manufacturer's instructions. Remove any defective equipment from service [4].

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

• All workers entering confined spaces must be trained in confined space entry procedures, hazard recognition, and the use of PPE and equipment 7, 17.
• Training must include hands-on practice with equipment and rescue techniques [4].
• Attendants must be trained in monitoring procedures, communication protocols, and emergency response [4].
• Rescue personnel must be trained in confined space rescue techniques, first aid, and CPR 7, 20.
• Training must be documented and updated regularly [4].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

• Conduct a pre-job briefing with all personnel involved to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and safety procedures 3, 5.
• Review the entry permit and ensure all workers understand their roles and responsibilities [12].
• Discuss emergency procedures and communication signals 3, 6.
• Ensure all workers have the necessary PPE and equipment and know how to use them properly [4].
• Address any questions or concerns raised by the workers [12].

7.3 Work Area Preparation

• Isolate the confined space from all potential hazards, such as moving equipment, chemical sources, and traffic [2].
• Lockout/tagout all energy sources to prevent accidental start-up of equipment [2].
• Ensure the work area around the confined space is clear of obstructions and hazards [12].
• Set up ventilation equipment to provide continuous airflow 2, 14.
• Post warning signs to prevent unauthorized entry [12].
• Ensure adequate lighting is available inside and outside the confined space 9, 14.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Hazard Assessment and Permit Acquisition

Before any entry, a qualified person must conduct a thorough hazard assessment of the confined space to identify potential risks 2, 5.

• Sub-step 1.1: Identify the confined space and its contents [3].
• Sub-step 1.2: Evaluate potential atmospheric hazards (oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, flammable atmospheres) 9, 11.
• Sub-step 1.3: Evaluate potential physical hazards (engulfment, moving parts, electrical hazards) 9, 16.
• Sub-step 1.4: Determine necessary control measures (ventilation, PPE, lockout/tagout) 2, 5, 16.
• Sub-step 1.5: Complete the entry permit with all required information (date, time, authorized personnel, hazards, controls, emergency procedures) 1, 3.
• Sub-step 1.6: Obtain authorization signature from the supervisor [12].

Safety considerations for this step include ensuring the hazard assessment is accurate and complete, all control measures are feasible and effective, and the entry permit is properly filled out and authorized 3, 5.

Step 2: Atmospheric Testing and Ventilation

Before entry, test the atmosphere inside the confined space from outside to ensure it is safe for entry [10].

• Sub-step 2.1: Calibrate and bump test atmospheric monitoring equipment [10].
• Sub-step 2.2: Test for oxygen levels (19.5% - 23%), toxic gases (below permissible exposure limits), and flammable substances (below 10% of LEL) [11].
• Sub-step 2.3: If the atmosphere is not safe, ventilate the space using mechanical ventilation until safe conditions are achieved 2, 14.
• Sub-step 2.4: Continuously monitor the atmosphere during entry, especially if conditions may change 11, 18.

Safety considerations for this step include ensuring the testing equipment is properly calibrated, ventilation is effective in removing hazards, and continuous monitoring is in place to detect any changes in atmospheric conditions 11, 14, 18.

Step 3: Entry and Work Procedures

Once the confined space is deemed safe for entry, follow these procedures for entering and performing work 3, 4.

• Sub-step 3.1: Ensure the attendant is in place outside the confined space and communication is established 3, 6.
• Sub-step 3.2: Enter the confined space using safe entry procedures (e.g., ladder, lifeline) [6].
• Sub-step 3.3: Perform the work as outlined in the entry permit, following all safety procedures and using required PPE 3, 7.
• Sub-step 3.4: Continuously monitor the atmosphere and be alert for any signs of danger 3, 6.
• Sub-step 3.5: Maintain communication with the attendant and report any concerns or changes in conditions 3, 6.

Safety considerations for this step include ensuring the attendant is attentive and able to respond to emergencies, workers are following safety procedures, and any changes in conditions are immediately addressed 3, 6.

Step 4: Exit Procedures

Upon completion of the work or if any hazards are detected, follow these procedures for exiting the confined space 3, 4.

• Sub-step 4.1: Cease work and exit the confined space in a safe and orderly manner [6].
• Sub-step 4.2: Remove all equipment and tools from the confined space [12].
• Sub-step 4.3: Inform the attendant that all workers have exited the confined space 3, 6.
• Sub-step 4.4: Record the exit time on the entry permit [12].
• Sub-step 4.5: Close off the confined space to prevent unauthorized entry [5].

Safety considerations for this step include ensuring all workers exit safely, all equipment is removed, and the confined space is secured to prevent accidental entry 3, 6.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Entry Permit System - An entry permit must be completed and authorized before any confined space entry 1, 3.
• Atmospheric Testing - The atmosphere inside the confined space must be tested before entry and continuously monitored during entry 11, 18.
• Ventilation - Continuous ventilation must be provided to maintain a safe atmosphere 2, 14.
• Lockout/Tagout - All energy sources must be de-energized and locked out to prevent accidental start-up of equipment [2].
• Communication - Constant two-way communication must be maintained between workers inside the confined space and the attendant outside 3, 6.
• Emergency Response Plan - A detailed emergency response plan must be in place and readily available 1, 6.
• Trained Personnel - All workers involved in confined space entry must be properly trained and competent 7, 17.
• Proper PPE - All workers must use the required PPE, including respirators, harnesses, and protective clothing [4].
• No Hot Work Without Precautions - Hot work (e.g., welding, cutting) should not be performed in a confined space unless all flammable materials are removed and the atmosphere is continuously monitored [11].
• Rescue Procedures - Rescue personnel must be available and trained in confined space rescue techniques 6, 20.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, the attendant must immediately initiate the emergency response plan 1, 6.

• Step 1: Assess the situation and determine the nature of the emergency [5].
• Step 2: Immediately call for emergency assistance (911 or local emergency services) [5].
• Step 3: Attempt rescue from outside the confined space if possible [13].
• Step 4: If entry is necessary, ensure rescue personnel are properly trained and equipped with appropriate PPE, including SCBA [13].
• Step 5: Provide first aid and CPR as needed 7, 20.
• Step 6: Document the incident and conduct an investigation to prevent future occurrences [7].

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Atmospheric Hazard (e.g., gas leak): Evacuate the confined space immediately. Provide ventilation until the atmosphere is safe. Re-enter only after atmospheric testing confirms safe conditions 3, 6, 14.
• Worker Incapacitation: Attempt rescue from outside the confined space. If entry is necessary, use retrieval system and appropriate PPE. Provide first aid and CPR 6, 20.
• Fire or Explosion: Evacuate the confined space immediately. Activate fire suppression systems. Call emergency services 6, 14.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

• Emergency Services: 911
• [COMPANY NAME] Security: [PHONE NUMBER]
• [SUPERVISOR NAME]: [PHONE NUMBER]
• Health and Safety Representative: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Any incident, near-miss, or hazardous condition related to confined space entry must be reported immediately to the supervisor and Health and Safety Representative [7].

• Step 1: Secure the area and provide assistance to any injured workers [7].
• Step 2: Report the incident to the supervisor and Health and Safety Representative [7].
• Step 3: Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the incident [7].
• Step 4: Implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences [7].
• Step 5: Document the incident, investigation findings, and corrective actions [7].

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

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