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 safety precautions to be followed when entering and working in confined spaces. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who may be required to enter a confined space at [COMPANY/SITE NAME]. This procedure aims to minimize the risks associated with confined space entry by providing a systematic approach to hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measure implementation 3, 4, 6.

This SWP covers all confined space entries, including but not limited to tanks, vessels, silos, pits, manholes, and other similar spaces that meet the definition of a confined space 4, 6, 17.

This procedure should be used in conjunction with other relevant safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout, Hazard Communication, and Emergency Response procedures.

2. Definitions

Confined Space: An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not primarily designed or intended for human occupancy, has restricted means of entrance and exit, and is or may become hazardous to a person entering it because of its design, construction, location, atmosphere, or the materials or substances in it or other conditions 4, 6, 17.

Hazardous Confined Space: A confined space that is or may become hazardous to a worker entering the confined space due to the design, construction or atmosphere of the confined space; the materials or substances in the confined space; the work activities or processes used in the confined space; or any other conditions relating to the confined space 6, 17.

Entry Permit: A written authorization from the employer, controlling contractor, or host employer to enter a permit-required confined space and perform work [1].

Entrant: An authorized employee who is allowed to enter a permit space [1].

Attendant: An individual stationed outside one or more permit spaces who monitors the authorized entrants and who performs all duties of an attendant as specified in this section [2].

Entry Supervisor: The person responsible for determining if acceptable entry conditions are present at a permit space where entry is planned, for authorizing entry and overseeing entry operations, and for terminating entry as required 14, 15.

Hot Work: Any work where a flame is used or a source of ignition may be produced [3].

Isolate: To physically interrupt or disconnect pipes, lines, and sources of energy from a confined space [4].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that a confined space entry permit is completed and signed before any worker enters a confined space [5].
• Ensure that all workers involved in confined space entry are properly trained and competent 3, 16.
• Provide workers with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure its proper use 5, 9.
• Ensure that the confined space is properly assessed, tested, and prepared before entry 11, 16, 19.
• Monitor the work being performed in the confined space to ensure compliance with this SWP.

3.2 Workers

• Participate in required training and understand the hazards associated with confined space entry 3, 16.
• Follow the instructions and procedures outlined in the confined space entry permit [5].
• Use the provided personal protective equipment (PPE) properly and report any defects 5, 9.
• Monitor the atmosphere within the confined space and report any changes or concerns to the attendant 8, 11.
• Evacuate the confined space immediately if an alarm is activated or if a hazardous condition is detected 9, 20.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of the confined space entry program and procedures 1, 3.
• Conduct periodic audits of confined space entry operations to ensure compliance with this SWP.
• Investigate incidents and near-misses related to confined space entry and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Oxygen deficiency or enrichment 10, 11, 19	Asphyxiation, impaired judgment	Test atmosphere before entry; continuous monitoring; ventilation 2, 11, 16
Flammable or explosive gases or vapors 10, 11, 19	Fire, explosion	Test atmosphere before entry; continuous monitoring; ventilation; eliminate ignition sources 2, 11, 16
Toxic gases, vapors, or dusts 10, 11	Poisoning, illness	Test atmosphere before entry; continuous monitoring; ventilation; respiratory protection 2, 11, 16
Engulfment hazards (liquids, free-flowing solids) 10, 11, 19	Drowning, suffocation	Eliminate or control the source; use appropriate barriers and work practices 2, 11, 19
Hazardous energy (electrical, mechanical, etc.) 11, 13, 19	Electrocution, injury	Lockout/Tagout procedures; isolation of energy sources 11, 19
Configuration hazards (narrow spaces, sloping floors) [6]	Entrapment, difficulty in rescue	Use appropriate entry and retrieval equipment; ensure adequate space for movement 2, 10
Falls from heights [6]	Injury	Use fall protection equipment; secure openings [6]
Biological hazards (molds, bacteria, viruses) 10, 11	Infection, illness	Use appropriate personal protective equipment; implement hygiene practices 10, 11

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE must be worn at all times when working in or around confined spaces to minimize the risk of injury or exposure to hazards 5, 9.

• Hard hat - Protects the head from falling objects and impacts.
• Safety glasses/goggles - Protects the eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes.
• Gloves - Protects the hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure. Select the appropriate type of glove based on the specific hazards present.
• Respirator - Protects the respiratory system from harmful airborne contaminants. The type of respirator required will depend on the specific hazards identified in the confined space. Fit testing and proper training are required before using a respirator.
• Safety boots - Provides foot protection from impacts, punctures, and chemical exposure.
• Coveralls - Protects the body and clothing from contamination.
• Harness and lifeline - Used for fall protection and retrieval in the event of an emergency.

Inspect all PPE before each use to ensure it is in good condition and functioning properly. Replace any damaged or defective PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Ensure all equipment and tools are in good working condition and are appropriate for the task [7].

• Gas monitor - Used to test the atmosphere for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic substances. Calibrate the gas monitor before each use and ensure it is functioning properly 11, 19.
• Ventilation equipment - Used to provide fresh air and remove hazardous atmospheres from the confined space 2, 16.
• Communication equipment - Used to maintain contact between the entrant and the attendant 2, 8.
• Lighting - Used to provide adequate illumination within the confined space. Use explosion-proof lighting if flammable gases or vapors may be present [6].
• Retrieval equipment - Used to rescue an entrant in the event of an emergency 2, 10.
• Lockout/Tagout equipment - Used to isolate energy sources and prevent accidental start-up of equipment 11, 19.

Inspect all equipment and tools before each use to ensure they are in good condition and functioning properly. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All workers involved in confined space entry must be trained by a competent person in recognizing hazards associated with working in confined spaces, and performing their duties in a safe and healthy manner 3, 16. Training must include the proper use of PPE, gas monitoring equipment, ventilation equipment, and rescue procedures 2, 3, 9.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

A pre-job briefing must be conducted before each confined space entry to discuss the hazards, control measures, and procedures to be followed 1, 2, 9. The briefing must include all members of the entry team, including the entrant, attendant, and entry supervisor. Key points to cover include:

• Review of the confined space entry permit [5].
• Identification of potential hazards and control measures 1, 2, 10.
• Proper use of PPE and equipment 5, 9.
• Communication procedures 2, 8.
• Emergency procedures 2, 9.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

• Isolate the confined space by disconnecting and locking out all energy sources and piping systems 6, 11, 19.
• Clean and purge the confined space of any hazardous materials or substances 11, 19.
• Ventilate the confined space to ensure a safe atmosphere 2, 16.
• Guard the entrance to prevent accidental falls or entry by unauthorized personnel [8].

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Hazard Assessment and Permit Completion

Before any entry, a competent person must assess the confined space to identify potential hazards, including atmospheric hazards, engulfment hazards, and physical hazards 3, 5, 10, 11.

• 8.1.1: Conduct air monitoring to test for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic substances 2, 11, 19.
• 8.1.2: Complete a confined space entry permit, documenting the hazards, control measures, and required PPE 13, 15.
• 8.1.3: Ensure the entry permit is signed by the entry supervisor and posted at the entrance to the confined space [5].

Safety considerations for this step: Ensure the atmosphere is tested by a competent person with calibrated equipment. Do not enter the space if hazardous conditions are present [9].

Step 2: Entry and Monitoring

Once the permit is completed and the space is deemed safe for entry, the entrant can enter the confined space 13, 15.

• 8.2.1: The attendant must remain outside the confined space and maintain continuous communication with the entrant 2, 8.
• 8.2.2: Continuously monitor the atmosphere within the confined space for any changes in oxygen levels, flammable gases, or toxic substances 8, 11.
• 8.2.3: Ensure that the entrant is wearing the required PPE and is following the procedures outlined in the entry permit 5, 9, 13.

Safety considerations for this step: The attendant must be trained in rescue procedures and be prepared to initiate a rescue if necessary 2, 7, 9. The entrant must be aware of the evacuation signal and procedures 9, 20.

Step 3: Completion and Exit

Upon completion of the work, the entrant must exit the confined space and the entry permit must be closed out 1, 2, 13.

• 8.3.1: Ensure that all tools and equipment are removed from the confined space [7].
• 8.3.2: The entrant must inform the attendant that the work is complete and that they are exiting the space 2, 8.
• 8.3.3: The entry supervisor must inspect the confined space to ensure that it is left in a safe condition [2].
• 8.3.4: The entry permit must be signed off by the entry supervisor and filed for record-keeping purposes [5].

Safety considerations for this step: Ensure that the confined space is properly secured after the work is completed to prevent unauthorized entry 12, 18.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Atmospheric Testing: Always test the atmosphere of the confined space before entry and continuously monitor it during occupancy to ensure safe levels of oxygen, flammable gases, and toxic substances 2, 11, 19.
• Ventilation: Use ventilation to maintain a safe atmosphere within the confined space by supplying fresh air and removing hazardous contaminants 2, 16.
• Lockout/Tagout: Implement lockout/tagout procedures to isolate energy sources and prevent accidental start-up of equipment within the confined space 11, 19.
• Communication: Maintain continuous communication between the entrant and the attendant to ensure the entrant's safety and to facilitate a timely rescue if necessary 2, 8.
• Emergency Preparedness: Develop and practice emergency rescue procedures to ensure a quick and effective response in the event of an accident or other emergency 2, 7, 9.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, the attendant must immediately activate the alarm system and initiate the rescue procedure 9, 20. The attendant must contact emergency services and provide them with the location of the confined space and the nature of the emergency [2].

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Atmospheric Hazard: If a hazardous atmosphere is detected, the entrant must immediately evacuate the confined space 9, 20.
• Entrapment: If the entrant becomes entrapped, the attendant must initiate the retrieval system and contact emergency services 2, 10.
• Injury or Illness: If the entrant is injured or becomes ill, the attendant must provide first aid and contact emergency services 1, 3.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

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

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, near-misses, and hazards related to confined space entry must be reported to the supervisor and the Health and Safety Department 1, 3. An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and to implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

• Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304) 1, 5, 8, 17
• Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020) 2, 6, 11, 12
• Occupational Health and Safety Code 3, 13
• Occupational Safety General Regulations (N.S. Reg. 44/99) 4, 9, 16, 19
• Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 29 CFR 1910) 15, 18, 20
• Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon) 7, 10, 14

---

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

Safety powered by SALUS