Confined space entry requires adherence to safety procedures, including hazard assessment, ventilation, and emergency rescue plans.

All spaces should be considered permit-required confined spaces until pre-entry procedures prove otherwise. A Confined Space Entry Permit must be completed before entry, verifying the completion of safety checks. This permit must be kept at the job site for the duration of the job, and a new permit is required if circumstances change or work is interrupted. [1]

A written copy of operating and rescue procedures must be available at the work site for the duration of the job. [1]

Hazard Assessment:

• Surveillance: Survey the surrounding area to identify potential hazards like drifting vapors from tanks or sewers. [1]

• Testing: Before entry, test the confined space atmosphere using a direct reading gas monitor to detect dangerous air contamination and/or oxygen deficiency. Minimum parameters to monitor include oxygen deficiency, LFL (Lower Flammable Limit), and hydrogen sulfide concentration. [1]

A written record of pre-entry test results must be made and kept at the work site, available for review by affected employees. [1]

Continuous gas monitoring should be performed during all confined space operations. If alarm conditions change adversely, entry personnel should exit the confined space and a new confined space permit should be issued. [1]

• Entry Permit System: Use an entry permit to document the completion of a hazard and risk assessment for each confined space entry. The permit should include the duration of validity, authorized workers, attendants, supervisor, location and description of the space, potential hazards, atmospheric testing details, hazard control measures, communication means, and the emergency plan.

Ventilation Requirements:

• Space Ventilation: Use mechanical ventilation systems set at 100% outside air, where applicable. Open additional manholes to increase air circulation and use portable blowers to augment natural circulation if needed. [1]

Entry may not begin until testing demonstrates that the hazardous atmosphere has been eliminated. [1]

If a hazardous atmosphere exists or is likely to exist, the confined space must be ventilated, purged, or both before entry. If this is impractical or ineffective, use appropriate personal protective equipment.

• Continuous Ventilation: Continuously ventilate the confined space while occupied to maintain a safe atmosphere. [2]

Emergency Rescue Plans:

• Emergency Procedures: Implement emergency procedures suitable to the situation, especially where immediate hazards to injured personnel are present. [1]

• Trained Personnel: Ensure all personnel are trained, and at least one worker stands by outside the space ready to assist in case of emergency, equipped with a self-contained breathing apparatus. [1]

Have at least one additional worker within sight or call of the standby worker. [1]

• Communication: Maintain continuous powered communications between the worker inside the confined space and standby personnel. [1]

• Response: If there is any questionable action or non-movement by the worker inside, a verbal check will be made. If there is no response, the worker will be moved immediately, unless disabled due to falling or impact, in which case local fire department rescue personnel should be notified immediately. [1]

• Rescue Procedures: The standby worker may only enter the confined space in case of an emergency (wearing the self-contained breathing apparatus) and only after being relieved by another worker. [1]

Use a safety belt or harness with an attached lifeline, secured outside the entry opening. [1]

The standby worker should attempt to remove a disabled worker via their lifeline before entering the space. [1]

• Emergency Response Plan: A detailed emergency response plan should be described in the confined space hazard assessment and control program. Rescue personnel qualified in confined space rescue procedures should be available immediately nearby to provide emergency assistance and should be familiar with the structural design of the confined space.

• Fire Department Services: Call fire department services for rescue. [1]

• Training: Workers assigned to a confined space entry job, including the worker stationed outside, should be trained in emergency procedures. [4]

• Rescue Equipment: Ensure the availability, location, and proper use of rescue equipment. [2] [3]

*Ensure that an effective rescue can be carried out. [5]