Confined Space Entry Checklist

This checklist is designed to ensure that all necessary safety precautions are taken before, during, and after entering a confined space. It is based on regulatory requirements and best practices for confined space safety 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20.

Instructions: Complete this checklist before each entry into a confined space. Ensure all items are checked and any deficiencies are corrected before entry. All workers involved in the confined space entry must comply with the requirements and procedures in the code of practice [1].

I. Pre-Entry Preparation

A. Hazard Assessment and Planning

Has a competent person identified and assessed all potential hazards within the confined space? 2, 3
- Hazards include atmospheric hazards, engulfment hazards, physical hazards, and any other potential dangers [2].
Is there a written confined space entry plan, including rescue procedures, readily available at the entrance to the confined space? [3]
Has the confined space been properly classified (e.g., confined space or hazardous confined space)? [4]
Is there a valid entry permit that lists each worker entering the space, the reason for entry, the location of the space, and the valid time period? [5]
Does the entry permit take into account the work being done and the code of practice requirements? [5]
Has the space been isolated to prevent the release of harmful substances or hazardous energy? 4, 15
Are the procedures to be followed and the equipment to be used to perform the work described in the code of practice? [6]
Are the procedures to be followed and the equipment to be used in the event of an emergency described in the code of practice? [6]
Has a copy of the code of practice been posted conspicuously near the entrance to the confined space? [6]

B. Atmospheric Testing and Control

Has the atmosphere inside the confined space been tested for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic air contaminants using calibrated direct-reading instruments? [7]
Is the oxygen level within the safe range (19.5% - 23.5%)? [7]
Are flammable gas levels below 10% of the lower explosive limit (LEL)? [8]
Are toxic air contaminant levels within permissible exposure limits (PEL)? [8]
Has the confined space been properly ventilated or purged to maintain a safe atmosphere? 4, 10
If ventilation is required, is the ventilation system functioning correctly, and is there an alarm system in place to alert workers of ventilation failure? [9]
Is the air supply for ventilation from a clean source and not increasing hazards in the enclosed space? [10]

C. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Rescue Equipment

Is all required PPE, including respiratory protection, safety harnesses, and protective clothing, available, inspected, and in good working order? 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 15
Have all entrants been trained on the proper use of PPE? [11]
Is appropriate rescue equipment available, including lifelines, retrieval systems, and emergency breathing apparatus? 4, 7
Has the rescue team been trained in confined space rescue procedures, including first aid and emergency response? 2, 6
Is there a means to maintain effective communication with a worker who has entered the hazardous confined space? [3]

D. Isolation and Lockout/Tagout

Have all potential sources of hazardous energy (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, etc.) been identified and isolated using lockout/tagout procedures? 15, 20
Have all lines, pipes, or ducts that may contain hazardous substances been disconnected, blanked, or blinded? 14, 20

II. During Entry

Is a trained attendant stationed outside the confined space to monitor entrants and perform rescue operations if needed? [12]
Is continuous atmospheric monitoring being conducted to ensure that conditions remain safe? [13]
Are entrants aware of the means of communication with the attendant and emergency services? [3]
Are entrants following safe work practices and using required PPE? [14]
Is there a procedure for the removal of a worker who has become injured or incapacitated while in the confined space? [3]

III. Post-Entry

Has the confined space been properly secured after work is completed?
Has all equipment been removed from the confined space?
Has the entry permit been closed out and filed?
Has a review of the confined space entry been conducted to identify any areas for improvement in the entry plan or procedures?

IV. Emergency Procedures

Are written emergency procedures to be followed in the event of an accident or other emergency in or near the confined space, including immediate evacuation of the confined space when an alarm is activated? [11]
Is there a written rescue procedure? 6, 7
Has the emergency response team been trained? 2, 6

V. Training

Has every person who enters a confined space been trained at least once every 2 years in accordance with the procedures? [13]
Has every person who undertakes rescue operations been trained at least once every year in accordance with the procedures? [13]

VI. Signatures

Entrant:

Date:

Attendant:

Date:

Entry Supervisor:

Date:

VII. Corrective Actions

If any item on this checklist is marked as incomplete or deficient, describe the corrective actions taken below:

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