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.

Related procedures and documents include the Confined Space Entry Permit System and Emergency Response Plan.

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

Comply with all confined space entry procedures and use required PPE.
Attend pre-entry briefings and understand the hazards and controls.
Report any unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in the development and review of confined space 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

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 fall protection and rescue.
Protective clothing - Appropriate for the specific hazards present.
Gloves - Protect against chemical or physical hazards.

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Use appropriate equipment and tools for confined space work.

Gas detectors - For continuous atmospheric monitoring.
Ventilation equipment - To maintain safe atmospheric conditions.
Communication devices - For maintaining contact with attendants.
Rescue equipment - For emergency situations.

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly to ensure it is in good working order.

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, controls, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the area is secure, signs are posted, and all necessary equipment is available and functional.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Preparation

Identify the confined space and assess hazards.
Obtain and complete an entry permit.
Gather necessary PPE and equipment.

Step 2: Entry

Conduct atmospheric testing before entry.
Ensure communication systems are in place.
Enter the space following the entry permit conditions.

Step 3: Work and Exit

Perform work as per the entry permit.
Continuously monitor atmospheric conditions.
Exit the space safely and complete the permit.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ensure continuous atmospheric monitoring.
Maintain communication with attendants.
Use PPE as required by the entry permit.
Follow all entry and exit procedures strictly.

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

Toxic gas exposure - Evacuate and use emergency breathing apparatus.
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 immediately. Investigate incidents to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)
Occupational Health and Safety Code
Confined Space Entry Permit System

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