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, Hazard Assessment Reports, and Emergency Response Plans.

2. Definitions

Confined Space
An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not primarily designed for human occupancy, has restricted means of entrance and exit, and may become hazardous to a worker entering it due to its design, construction, atmosphere, or materials present [1].

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 [2].

Isolate
To physically interrupt or disconnect pipes, lines, and sources of energy from a confined space [1].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure 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

• Follow all procedures and use PPE as required.
• Attend all required training sessions.
• Report any hazards or incidents immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Participate in the development and review of confined space procedures.
• Assist in the investigation of incidents related to confined space entry.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Oxygen deficiency	Asphyxiation	Continuous atmospheric monitoring, ventilation [3]
Toxic gases	Poisoning	Use of gas detectors, PPE [3]
Engulfment	Drowning or suffocation	Barriers, safety harnesses [3]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety in confined spaces.

• Respirators - Use when toxic gases are present.
• Safety harnesses - For fall protection and rescue.
• Gas detectors - For continuous atmospheric monitoring.
• Protective clothing - To prevent contact with hazardous substances.
• Gloves - To protect hands from chemicals and sharp objects.

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Use appropriate equipment and tools for confined space entry.

• Ventilation equipment - To ensure safe atmospheric conditions.
• Communication devices - For maintaining contact with attendants.
• Rescue equipment - For emergency situations.
• Lighting - To ensure visibility in confined spaces.
• Lockout/tagout devices - To isolate energy sources.

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in confined space entry procedures, hazard recognition, and emergency response [4].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review the entry plan, hazards, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the area is clear of hazards and that all necessary equipment is in place.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Hazard Assessment

Conduct a thorough hazard assessment before entry.

• Identify potential hazards.
• Determine necessary control measures.
• Document findings in a report [5].

Step 2: Entry Permit

Complete and authorize an entry permit.

• List all personnel involved.
• Specify the duration of the permit.
• Ensure all safety measures are in place [6].

Step 3: Entry and Work

Enter the confined space and perform work safely.

• Use PPE and equipment as required.
• Maintain communication with attendants.
• Monitor atmospheric conditions continuously [7].

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Ensure continuous atmospheric monitoring.
• Use ventilation to maintain safe air quality.
• Isolate energy sources before entry.
• Maintain clear communication with attendants.
• Have rescue equipment readily available.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate immediately if a hazardous condition arises.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Toxic gas exposure - Evacuate and use respirators.
• Oxygen deficiency - Evacuate and ventilate the space.
• 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 and near-misses immediately. Investigate 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 Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020)
• Occupational Safety General Regulations (N.S. Reg. 44/99)

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

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