Confined Space Entry
Before entering a confined space, it is necessary to complete a Permit-to-Work document.
- Before entering a confined space, tell your supervisor. Use the buddy system if you suspect a hazard and have a safety line and the necessary SCBA at the ready.
- Shut off equipment that could create heat or sparks and pose an explosive hazard in a confined space at the electrical power supply whenever an explosive hazard exists. And make sure the equipment is then be locked-out, with a tag placed on the power supply warning personnel not to re-energise the equipment.
- If at all possible, don’t use internal combustion engines in a confined space. If you have to, make sure there’s adequate ventilation. Vent exhaust from these engines directly out of the space.
- Explosion-proof forced ventilation must be used to ventilate spaces. Make sure you take enough time to adequately exchange the air in the space.
- The space must be tested for oxygen content and combustible or toxic gases. Continue testing as long as personnel remain in the space as disturbing a pool of sludge or chipping rust can reintroduce hazardous gases or displaced oxygen.
- Keep applying forced ventilation while personnel are in the confined space.
- In the event that you must enter a space that has not been ventilated and tested, wear an SCBA and safety line, and make sure that someone else is stationed outside the space in case you must be rescued.
- Always wear the required PPE / respirators when working or painting in confined spaces – even when they have been tested and ventilated.
