CodeofPractice forWorkingin ConfinedSpaces · Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and with the consent of the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and

Code of PracticeforWorking inConfined Spaces

Our vision:A national culturewhere all commit tosafe and healthyworkplaces and thesafe and sustainablemanagement ofchemicals

FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

1. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Introductory Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

1.1 Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

1.2 Status and Scope of Code of Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1.3 Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1.4 Key Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

1.5 Types of Injury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1.6 Identification of Confined Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

2. THE HAZARDS OF CONFINED SPACES . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.1 Other Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.2 Relevant Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.2.1 Toxic Atmosphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.2.2 Oxygen Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.2.3 Oxygen Enrichment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.2.4 Flammable or Explosive Atmospheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.2.5 Flowing Liquid or Free Flowing Solids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.2.6 Excessive Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

3. RESPONSIBILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3.1 Employers and the Self-Employed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3.2 Employees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

4. PREVENTIONOFTHE NEED FOR ENTRY . . . . . . . . . 9

4.1 Choice ofWork Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

4.2 Provision of Safe Plant and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

4.3 Prevention of Unauthorised Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

5. THE RISK ASSESSMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

5.1 Key Elements of Risk Assessment and Control . . . . . 10

5.2 Generic Risk Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

5.3 Identify the Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

5.3.1 What’s Inside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

5.3.2 What’s Created . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

5.3.3 What’s Outside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

6. A SAFE SYSTEMOFWORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

6.1 A SafeWay ofWorking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

6.2 Elements of Safe System ofWork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

6.2.1 Training, Supervision and Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

6.2.2 Permit-to-Work Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

6.2.3 Gas purging and Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

6.2.4 Dangerous Residues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

6.2.5 Testing and Monitoring of the Atmosphere . . . . . . . 16

6.2.6 Mechanical, Electrical and Process Isolation . . . . . . . 17

6.2.7 Respiratory Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

6.2.8 Other Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

6.2.9 Safe Use ofWork Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

6.2.10 Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

6.2.11 Access and Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

6.2.12 Flammable or Explosive Atmospheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

6.2.13 Combustible Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

7. EMERGENCY AND RESCUE PROCEDURES . . . . . . 22

7.1 Rescue Arrangements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

7.2 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

7.3 Rescue Logistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

7.4 Rescue Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

7.5 Resuscitation Procedures and Equipment . . . . . . . . . 25

Appendix 1

Logic Flowsheet forWork in Confined Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Appendix 2

Example of Permit-to-work Form for

Work in Confined Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Appendix 3

Safety,Health andWelfare atWork

(Confined Spaces) Regulations 2001 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Contents

Foreword

The Health and Safety Authority, with theconsent of Mr Dara Calleary, Minister of State atthe Department of Enterprise, Trade andInnovation, and following public consultation,publishes this Code of Practice entitled “Code ofPractice for Working in Confined Spaces”, inaccordance with section 60 of the Safety, Healthand Welfare at Work Act 2005 (No. 10 of 2005).

The Code of Practice provides practical guidanceas to the observance of the provisions of theSafety, Health and Welfare at Work (ConfinedSpaces) Regulations 2001 (S.I. No. 218 of 2001).

This Code of Practice comes into operation onMay 17th 2010. It replaces the Code of Practiceentitled “Code of Practice for Working inConfined Spaces” issued by the Authority in 2001in accordance with the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work Act 1989.

Notice of the issue of this Code of Practice waspublished in the Iris Oifigiúil of May 14th 2010.

As regards the use of Codes of Practice in criminalproceedings, section 61 of the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work Act 2005 provides as follows-

61.—(1) Where in proceedings for an offenceunder this Act relating to an allegedcontravention of any requirement orprohibition imposed by or under arelevant statutory provision being aprovision for which a code ofpractice had been published orapproved by the Authority undersection 60 at the time of the allegedcontravention, subsection (2) shallhave effect with respect to that codeof practice in relation to thoseproceedings.

(2) (a) Where a code of practice referred toin subsection (1) appears to thecourt to give practical guidance as tothe observance of the requirementor prohibition alleged to have beencontravened, the code of practiceshall be admissible in evidence.

(b) Where it is proved that any act oromission of the defendant allegedto constitute the contravention –

(i) is a failure to observe a code ofpractice referred to in subsection(1), or

(ii) is a compliance with that codeof practice,

then such failure or compliance isadmissible in evidence.

(3) A document bearing the seal of theAuthority and purporting to be acode of practice or part of a code ofpractice published or approved of bythe Authority under this section shallbe admissible as evidence in anyproceedings under this Act.

Robert Roe

Assistant Chief Executive Officer and Secretary tothe Board

Page 2 | Code of Practice for Working in Confined Spaces

Introduction

Introductory Notes

Note 1: References to other Enactments

This Code of Practice should be read inconjunction with the Safety, Health and Welfareat Work (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2001 (S.I.No. 218 of 2001). Regulation 3(1) of thoseRegulations, relating to the application of theRegulations, provides as follows –

“3. (1) The provisions of Regulations 2, 4 andPart II of the Safety, Health and Welfare atWork (General Application) Regulations 1993(S.I. No. 44 of 1993) shall apply in full to theapplication of the provisions of theseRegulations.”

However, since the revocation of Regulations 2, 4and Part II of the Safety, Health and Welfare atWork (General Application) Regulations 1993 bythe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (GeneralApplication)(Amendment)(Revocation)Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 392 of 2005) and byRegulation 3(1)(o) of the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work (General Application)Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 299 of 2007), therelevant references above should be read asreferences to the following correspondingreplacement provisions of the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work Act 2005 (No. 10 of 2005) –

Section 2(1) – Interpretation - definitions of“fixed term employee”, “temporaryemployee” and “temporary employmentbusiness”, Section 8 – General Duties ofEmployer, Section 9 – Information foremployees, Section 10 – Instruction, trainingand supervision of employees, Section 11 –Emergencies and serious and imminentdangers, Section 13 – Duties of Employee,Section 18 – Protective and PreventiveMeasures, Section 19 – Hazard identificationand risk assessment, Section 20 – SafetyStatement, Section 21 – Duty of employers toco-operate, Section 22 – Health Surveillance,Section 25 – Safety Representatives, Section26 – Consultation and participation ofemployees, safety committees and Schedule 3- General principles of Prevention.

Note 2: Confined Space Work in theConstruction Sector

Notwithstanding the provisions of the Safety,Health and Welfare at Work (Confined Spaces)Regulations 2001 (S.I. No. 218 of 2001) andRegulation 79 of the Safety, Health and Welfareat Work (Construction) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No.504 of 2006), relating to health hazards,attention is drawn to the provisions of Points 6.2and 6.3 of Annex IV, Minimum Safety and HealthRequirements for Construction Sites, of CouncilDirective 92/57/EEC of 24 June 1992 on theimplementation of minimum safety and healthrequirements at temporary or mobileconstruction sites, which provide as follows -

“6.2. If workers have to enter an area wherethe atmosphere is liable to contain a toxic orharmful substance or to have an insufficientoxygen level or to be inflammable, theconfined atmosphere must be monitored andappropriate steps taken to prevent anyhazards.

6.3. A worker may not in any circumstancesbe exposed to a high-risk confinedatmosphere.

He must at least be watched at all times fromoutside and all appropriate precautions must betaken to ensure that he can be assisted effectivelyand immediately.”.

1.1 Background

Confined spaces are significantly more hazardousthan normal workplaces. The hazards involvedmay not be unique to confined spaces, but arealways exacerbated by the enclosed nature of theconfined space. The resulting injuries arepotentially fatal. A seemingly insignificant erroror oversight while working in a confined spacecan result in a tragic accident. Furthermore thereis a propensity for multiple casualties due to theinsidious nature of the hazards.

Code of Practice for Working in Confined Spaces | Page 3

Introduction

1.2 Status and Scope ofCode of Practice

This code of practice is published by the Healthand Safety Authority under Section 60 of theSafety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 andwith the consent of the Minister of State at theDepartment of Enterprise, Trade andEmployment. The code is intended to providepractical guidance on safe work in confinedspaces in accordance with the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work (Confined Spaces) Regulations2001. The text of the Regulations is reproducedat Appendix 3.

A failure to observe any part of this code will notof itself render a person liable to civil or criminalproceedings. Where the code of practice givespractical guidance on the observance of any ofthe relevant statutory provisions then complianceor non-compliance with those provisions of thecode may be admissible in evidence in anycriminal proceedings.

You may use alternative methods to those set outin the code in order to comply with the law.However, the special legal status accorded to thecode means that if you are prosecuted for breachof health and safety law, and it is proved thatyou did not follow the relevant provisions of thecode, you will need to show that you havecomplied with the law in some other way or acourt will find you at fault.

This code applies to all places of work, across allindustry sectors, where confined spaces occur orare liable to occur.

1.3 Definition

The term CONFINED SPACE means any place,including any vessel, tank, container, vat, silo,hopper, pit, bund, trench, pipe, sewer, flue, well,chamber, compartment, cellar or other similarspace which, by virtue of its enclosed naturecreates conditions which give rise to a likelihoodof accident, harm or injury of such a nature as torequire emergency action due to:

(a) The presence or reasonably foreseeablepresence of:

(i) flammable or explosive atmospheres,

(ii) harmful gas, fume or vapour,

(iii) free flowing solid or an increasing levelof liquid,

(iv) excess of oxygen,

(v) excessively high temperature.

(b) The lack or reasonably foreseeable lackof oxygen.

1.4 Key Characteristics

The following are key characteristics of a'confined space' for the purposes of this Code ofPractice.

• The space must be substantially enclosed.

• There must be a risk of at least one hazard ofthe type, listed in the definition above,occurring within the space.

• The risk of serious injury from the hazardmust be created by virtue of the enclosednature of the space.

• The potential injury must be serious and besuch as to require emergency action to rescuethe person involved.

1.5 Types of Injury

The types of injury relevant to this Code ofPractice include:

(a) Injury arising from fire and explosion.

(b) Loss of consciousness or asphyxiation arisingfrom harmful gas, fume, vapour, free flowingsolids or the lack of oxygen.

(c) Drowning arising from an increase in the levelof a liquid.

(d) Loss of consciousness arising from an increasein body temperature.


Introduction

1.6 Identification ofConfined Spaces

Many potential confined spaces are easilyidentified, for example, roofed tanks for storingliquids, pressure vessels, ships’ bulkheads,underground chambers and sewers. Others areless obvious but may be equally dangerous in thepresence of hazardous conditions, for example,open-topped tanks and vats, bunds around fixedstorage tanks, trenches, parts of buildings duringconstruction, wells, storage silos and unventilatedor inadequately ventilated rooms orcompartments.

Potentially any substantially enclosed structure,in which people work, could be or could becomea confined space.

Some places which fall within the definition of aconfined space may do so only occasionally,

perhaps due to the type of work to beundertaken. Examples include a room duringspray painting or a metal air duct undergoingwelding operations.

Other places fall within the definition of aconfined space by reason of a foreseeablecoincidence. Examples include a trench in thevicinity of a leaking buried gas main, a garage pitinto which petrol has spilled, an unventilated pubcellar containing a leaking gas cylinder or atransport container in which a volatile toxicchemical has spilled.

Some places such as sewers, fuel storage tanksand certain chemical storage vessels, can beconsidered to fall readily on an ongoing basiswithin the definition of a confined space.


2. The Hazards of Confined Spaces

This Code of Practice is concerned only with thosehazards which arise by virtue of the enclosednature of the work space and which can result inserious injury, necessitating emergency action.

2.1 Other Hazards

Other hazards, which may be present and whichare associated with the place of work (e.g.slippery floors, falls from a height, moving partsof mechanical equipment, corrosive surfaces,non-life threatening levels of toxic fumes,presence of radioactive sources for levelmeasurement, etc) or with the work activity (e.g.noise, electricity, mechanical equipment, dustetc), must be identified and evaluated in thenormal manner.

Indeed some of these other hazards are oftenassociated with confined spaces in particularindustry sectors. For example, in the chemical andpharmaceutical industries, physical contact withmechanically-powered apparatus is a hazardcommonly associated with confined spaces due tothe presence of rotary agitators in process vessels.In the local authority sector, the hazard ofexposure to micro-organisms is synonymous withwork in sewers. In the industrial sector, thehazard of contact with live electrodes whenentering electrostatic filters is also well knownand sometimes associated with work in confinedspaces. Appropriate control measures should beput in place for these hazards, as for any others,which may be present.

2.2 Relevant Hazards

The hazards to be considered here are thosehazards, which arising in combination with theenclosed nature of the working space, lead to arisk of serious injury or harm, necessitatingemergency action. These hazards may be existingor foreseeable. They include the following:

2.2.1 Toxic Atmosphere

A toxic atmosphere can cause various acuteeffects, including impairment of judgement,unconsciousness and death. It may occur in the

confined space due to the presence or ingress ofhazardous substances. These substances mayremain from previous processing, or be present asa result of previous storage, or arise from thedisturbance of sludge or other deposits (e.g.during cleaning). Sometimes hazardoussubstances may be trapped under scale or inbrickwork only to be released as a result of thework process.

Hazardous substances may also enter the spacefrom adjoining plant that has not been isolatedeffectively. Gas and fumes can build up over timein, or can travel along sewers, cable tunnels orculverts. Hazardous substances may be producedby a work process being carried out inside or inthe environs of the confined space, for example,by welding, flame cutting or use of plant ormachinery.

A fire within or in the environs of a confinedspace could also result in the formation of a toxicatmosphere within the space.

2.2.2 Oxygen Deficiency

A deficiency of oxygen in the atmosphere canresult in impairment of judgement,unconsciousness and death. It can be caused bydisplacement of air by another gas or by variousbiological processes or chemical reactions (e.g.rotting of organic matter, rusting of metal,burning, etc) which scavenge or consume oxygenfrom the air. Oxygen can also be removed fromthe air by absorption onto steel surfaces,especially where these are damp.

2.2.3 Oxygen Enrichment

An excess of oxygen in the atmosphere, in thepresence of combustible material, results in anincreased risk of fire or explosion. Oxygenenrichment, even by a few percent, considerablyincreases the risk of fire. Materials, which do notburn in air, may burn vigorously or evenspontaneously in enriched air. The flammabilityof clothing may be increased. Oxygen enrichmentmay be caused, for example, by a leak of oxygenfrom an oxygen cylinder used in gouging orflame cutting operations.


2. The Hazards of Confined Spaces

2.2.4 Flammable orExplosive Atmospheres

A flammable atmosphere presents a risk of fire orexplosion. Such an atmosphere can arise from thepresence in the confined space of flammableliquids or gases or of a suspension of combustibledust in air. If a flammable atmosphere inside aconfined space ignites, an explosion may occur,resulting in the expulsion of hot gases and thedisintegration of the structure.

2.2.5 Flowing Liquid orFree Flowing Solids

Liquids or solids can flow into the confined space,drowning or suffocating the occupants or causingother injuries such as burns. Solids in powderform may also be disturbed in a confined spaceresulting in an asphyxiating atmosphere.

2.2.6 Excessive Heat

The enclosed nature of a confined space canincrease the risk of heat stroke or collapse fromheat stress, if conditions are excessively hot. Therisk may be exacerbated by the wearing ofpersonal protective equipment or by lack ofventilation.


3. Responsibilities

3.1 Employers and theSelf-Employed

Employers and self-employed persons areresponsible for carrying out or implementing thenecessary safety and health measures to ensuresafe working in confined spaces as follows:

(a) Employers in respect of work carried out bytheir own employees and work carried out byany other person (e.g. contractors) insofar asthat work is to any extent under theemployers' control; and

(b) The self-employed in respect of their ownwork and work carried out by any otherperson insofar as that work is to any extentunder the control of the self-employedperson.

Where control of work is shared between one ormore employers or self-employed, thoseemployers or self-employed must liaise and co-operate with each other to agree their respectiveresponsibilities in ensuring the safety of anyperson entering a confined space. Co-operationand liaison is also required when:

• Identifying the potential hazardsand assessing the risks.

• Developing and implementing a safe systemfor entering and working in a confined space.

• Making suitable and sufficient arrangementsfor the rescue of persons in the event ofan emergency.

When engaging contractors who may havecontrol to any extent of work in a confinedspace, the employer or self-employed will needto take all necessary steps to ensure that thecontractors are competent for the work involved.

3.2 Employees

Employees must co-operate with their employer,taking into account information, training andinstruction received, to enable the employerimplement a safe system of work and executeeffective emergency arrangements to ensure safeworking in confined spaces. Employees must alsomake proper use of any equipment providedincluding personal protective equipment suppliedby their employer, where required as part of thesafe system of work, for example, use of safetyharnesses, respiratory protective equipment andreflective clothing.


4. Prevention of the Need for Entry

No one shall enter or be required to enter aconfined space to carry out work for any purposeunless it is not reasonably practicable to achievethat purpose without entering the space.

4.1 Choice of Work Method

Employers, self-employed or others in control toany extent of a work activity must take accountof the inherently higher risk to safety and healthwhich entry into a confined space entails whileplanning that work activity. All methods ofcarrying out the work which enable the purposeto be achieved without the need to enter theconfined space should be considered. Themeasures which avoid the need for entry, mightinvolve changing work practices or equipment, ordismantling a structure prior to entry.

If an alternative method of carrying out work isreasonably practicable and if it entails a loweroverall risk to safety and health, it must be used.In order to ensure that entirely new hazards arenot introduced or other risks increased, those incontrol must consider carefully the full impact ofany proposals and weigh up the pros and cons ofthe various options.

Where entry into a confined space for certainwork is required on a periodic basis thefrequency of entry should be minimised as far aspracticable.

Examples of modified working practices thatprevent the need for entry include:

• Sampling the atmosphere or contents ofconfined spaces from outside using long toolsand probes, etc.

• Cleaning a confined space, or removingresidues from it, from the outside using waterjetting, steam or chemical cleaning, long-handled tools, or in-place cleaning systems.

• Avoiding blockages in silos, where grain orother solids can 'bridge', and thus the need toenter, by the use of devices such as vibratorsor air blasters.

• Inspection or checking of what is happeninginside without going in by looking in througha porthole, sightglass, grille or hole. The useof closed circuit television systems may beappropriate in some cases.

4.2 Provision of Safe Plantand Equipment

Manufacturers and suppliers of equipment aswell as designers, engineers and architects shouldaim to eliminate the need for persons to enter aconfined space. This may be achieved byinstalling in-situ sampling devices, in-placecleaning systems, portholes and/or incorporatinga system for dismantling the plant or equipment.

4.3 Prevention ofUnauthorised Entry

Employers, self-employed or others in control toany extent of a workplace must take reasonablemeasures to ensure that unauthorised entry intoa confined space within that workplace isprevented.

Measures may include education of theworkforce on the hazards of confined spaces,the placing of warning signs at entry points andeffective control of contractors, visitors andothers in the workplace. Reasonable securitymeasures may be necessary to prevent illicit entry.


5. The Risk Assessment

5.1 Key Elements of RiskAssessment and Control

Before carrying out work which involves entryinto a confined space, a risk assessment(conducted in accordance with section 19 of theSafety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005(No.10 of 2005)) is necessary to determine whatmeasures need to be taken to ensure the safetyand health of those entering and working in theconfined space.

The purpose of the risk assessment is to identifythe relevant hazards and formulate a safe systemof work, which will be described in more detail inSection 6 of this Code. It will also determine theemergency arrangements, which must be in placeprior to entry. Note that the necessary protectivemeasures and emergency arrangements must beappropriate both for the hazards of concern inthis code and any other hazards which might bepresent (falls from height, contact with movingparts of machinery, contact with live electricalequipment, cardiac arrest by natural causes etc.).

The risk assessment must evaluate the risks tothose entering or working there, and also anyothers, for example, other workers includingcontractors and the general public in the vicinitywho could be affected by the work to beundertaken. If the risk is found to beunacceptable, then entry must not beundertaken. All relevant and availableinformation should be sought and consideredwhen carrying out the assessment. Failure toinclude relevant information in the riskassessment could lead to inadequate precautionsin the system of work.

The assessment must be carried out by acompetent person. A “competent person” isdefined in section 2(2) of the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work Act 2005 as follows –

“(2) (a) For the purposes of the relevantstatutory provisions, a person isdeemed to be a competent personwhere, having regard to the task heor she is required to perform andtaking account of the size or

hazards (or both of them) of theundertaking or establishment inwhich he or she undertakes work, theperson possesses sufficient training,experience and knowledge appropriateto the nature of the work toundertaken.

(b) Account shall be taken, as appropriate,for the purposes of paragraph (a) of theframework of qualifications referred toin the Qualifications (Education andTraining) Act 1999.”

In short, for the purpose of this Code of Practice,a competent person is someone with sufficientexperience of, and familiarity with, the relevantprocesses, plant and equipment so that he or sheunderstands the risks involved and can devise thenecessary precautions and emergencyarrangements to ensure safety and health. Incomplex cases more than one person may beneeded to conduct assessments of risks relatingto specific required areas of expertise.

Employees and their representatives should beconsulted when assessing the risks connectedwith entering or working in a confined space andwhen developing a safe system of work andemergency arrangements.

5.2 Generic Risk Assessment

A generic risk assessment may be suitable for aclass of confined spaces (e.g. transversableunderground sewers operated by localauthorities or cable tunnels in a power plant). Allconfined spaces in such a class should be similarin terms of the conditions involved, the activitiesbeing carried out, and the necessary controlmeasures. A “model” safe system of work may bedeveloped. Great care must be taken to identifyany particular case of entry into a confined spacewith atypical features, which would require amodified safe system of work.

Where an industry sector has established goodpractice, supported by published guidance, onthe classification of confined spaces, theadoption of this classification system (subject tothe provisos listed above) will be particularly



advantageous for the standardisation of safework procedures and the specification of trainingrequirements. Such standardisation is asignificant practical aid to contractors and otherworkers who provide confined space entryservices to a range of clients within a singleindustry sector. The water/sewerage sector is anexample of an industry where a classificationsystem for confined spaces is well developed.

Warning: The adoption of a classification systemdoes not lessen the requirement for a thoroughrisk assessment.

5.3 Identify the Hazards

In carrying out the assessment, hazards to beconsidered include those arising as a result of:

(i) What’s inside the confined space includinghazards associated with the inherent nature,structure, contents or condition of theconfined space,

(ii) What’s created by the work and otheractivities being carried out, and

(iii)What’s outside the confined space in respectof conditions, hazards or substances thatcould affect a person within the space.

5.3.1 What’s Inside

The general state of the confined space shouldbe assessed to identify what substances orconditions might be present, and cause aproblem. For example, is the concentration ofoxygen normal? Can valuable information orexperience be got from operators or otherindividuals who are familiar with the particularworkplace? What information is available fromrecords, drawings or design data?

The physical dimensions, structure and layout ofthe confined space can result in air qualitydifferences within the space, which areunaffected by ventilation. There may also beareas with increased susceptibility to engulfmentby free-flowing solids or liquids. Whattemperature, air humidity and visibility is likely?

In identifying hazards and assessing risks, factorsto be considered should include the following:

• ContentsIf the space is not empty, what substances arepresent and what are their associated hazards?Can gases be released from the contents bybiological or chemical processes; for example,methane or hydrogen sulphide from decayingorganic matter or carbon dioxide fromfermenting matter? Can gases be leached fromthe contents; for example, methane fromgroundwater? Is engulfment by the contentspossible; for example, by a water surge in a sewerfollowing heavy rainfall?

• Previous ContentsInformation about any substances previouslyheld, stored, or used, in the confined space, willgive an indication of what kind of hazard may beexpected, for example, toxic or flammable gases,etc.

• ResiduesDangers may arise from chemical residues orscale, rust, sludge or other residues in a confinedspace. Dangerous gas, fume or vapour can bereleased when scale, sludge or slurry is disturbed.For example, breaking the scale on, or agitationof animal slurries can release hydrogen sulphide,which is highly toxic and can causeunconsciousness after taking a single breath.

• ContaminationUnexpected contamination by leaking gases orliquids may arise from adjacent plant, processes,gas mains or surrounding soil or rock formations.Leaks may also occur from pipework, drums orstorage vessels located within the confined space.Even very small leaks can, over a period of time,lead to significant contamination of theatmosphere. Contamination can also occur fromconnected spaces, for example, by migration oftoxic gas clouds through sewer systems.



• Oxygen DeficiencyDecreased oxygen can be the result of a varietyof conditions including the displacement ofoxygen by another gas, for example, by nitrogenused for purging a flammable atmosphere, or byvarious biological processes or chemical reactions.Examples are the consumption of oxygen bydecaying organic material or the scavenging ofoxygen molecules by the rusting of a metalstructure within the confined space. The normalconcentration of oxygen in the atmosphere is20.8%. Any difference in oxygen content fromnormal should be investigated, the risk assessed,and appropriate measures taken in the light ofthe risk. A relatively small reduction in theoxygen concentration can lead to impairedmental ability. The effects are very rapid andgenerally there will be no warning to alert thesenses. This can happen even in circumstanceswhere only a person's head is inside a confinedspace. Very low oxygen concentrations (i.e.,below 16%) can lead to unconsciousness anddeath.

• Oxygen EnrichmentOxygen enrichment will increase flammability ofclothing and other combustible materials. It maybe caused by failure to adequately blank ordisconnect oxygen supply lines, by leakingoxygen hoses or pipes, or by misguided use ofoxygen instead of air for ventilation purposes.

• Structure and LayoutThere may be a risk of entrapment. This mayhave serious consequences, particularly if self-contained breathing apparatus is worn and anoccupant is delayed for a period in excess of theair supply. Certain confined spaces, e.g. sewers,may be of such a convoluted structure as topresent a risk of occupants becoming lost ordisorientated.

5.3.2 What’s Created

The hazards arising directly from the workundertaken in the confined space should beassessed. The work itself may produce thehazard. Alternatively, conditions may becomehazardous when work is done in conjunction

with residues, contamination, etc. Work beingdone on the exterior of the confined space (e.g.external welding) could also generate hazardousconditions within.

Hazards that can be introduced into a space thatmay otherwise be safe include:

• Operation of Internal Combustion EnginesThe operation, within the confined space, ofinternal combustion engines, e.g. portableelectrical generators or pumps, whose exhaustscontain carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide andnitrogen dioxide is likely to seriously contaminatethe atmosphere.

• Cleaning ChemicalsChemicals that might be used for cleaningpurposes could affect the atmosphere directly orinteract with residual substances present in theconfined space.

• Flammable SubstancesThe work might involve use of a flammablesubstance, a quantity of which is therebyintroduced into the confined space. For example,an opened container of a flammable solvent-based paint may be hazardous in a confinedspace.

• Sources of IgnitionSources of ignition may be introduced in theform of incorrectly specified electrical workequipment, by inadequate static electricityprecautions or, more obviously through spark-generating processes such as welding or cutting.This equipment or activity will be hazardous inconjunction with the presence of a flammable orexplosive atmosphere.

5.3.3 What’s Outside

The need to isolate the confined space to preventdangers arising from outside should be assessed.These dangers include ingress of substances(liquids, gases, steam, inert gas, water, rawmaterials, etc.), ingress of sources of ignition andinadvertent confinement (closing or blocking ofexit routes).



Examples of how these may arise include:

• Inadequate IsolationInadequate isolation (sealing off) of the confinedspace from adjacent plant, processes, services andequipment may unexpectedly allow substancesenter. How effective/reliable are the means ofisolation? What are the consequences of a valveleaking? Are connecting pipelines, valves andmeters totally drained and decontaminated? Ifisolation is impractical, as in case of sewers, isthere a possibility of a sudden discharge of largequantity of waste and what are theconsequences?

• Inadvertent Operation of PlantInadvertent operation of machinery or plantcould result in a breaching of the means ofisolation, for example, the automatic opening ofvalves by the plant control system or theunexpected start-up of a pumping system in asewer. Note that inadvertent operation of plantmay also create hazards, such as contact withmoving parts of machinery, which are not thespecific concern of this code but whichnonetheless should be controlled. All mechanical

and electrical plant, which is potentiallyhazardous to confined space entrants, should besecurely disconnected from the power supply forthe duration of entry.

• Nearby Work ActivitiesWork activities, located near the entrance to aconfined space, may allow smoke, exhaust fumes,dust or sparks to enter. Welding or cutting on theoutside of a confined space can easily ignitematerials in contact with the metal on the inside.A ventilation system exhaust, located too near tothe entrance of a confined space, may result inrecycling of exhaust air.


6. A Safe System ofWork

6.1 A Safe Way of Working

Where it is not reasonably practicable to avoidentering a confined space to undertake work, asafe system of work must be devised and used.

A safe system of work is a controlled andconsidered way of doing work, which eliminatesor reduces the risk to health and safety as far aspracticable. It sets out the work to be done andthe precautions to be taken. It requiresforethought and planning. Persons involved in itsimplementation should be given adequateinstruction, training and supervision. To beeffective a safe system of work must beimplemented rigorously.

The system of work should be understood by allpersons involved. Where a system of work iscomplex, it needs to be in writing. When writtendown, it is a formal record that all foreseeablehazards and risks have been considered inadvance and that control measures have beenestablished. It should be available to all personsinvolved.

6.2 Elements of Safe System ofWork

The precautions required in a safe system of workwill depend on the nature of the confined spaceand the risk assessment (See Section 5). The mainelements to consider when designing a safesystem of work are:

• Training, supervision and suitability

• Permit-to-work procedure

• Gas purging and ventilation

• Dangerous residues

• Testing and monitoring the atmosphere

• Mechanical, electrical and process isolation

• Respiratory protective equipment

• Other personal protective equipment

• Safe use of work equipment

• Communications

• Access and egress

• Flammable or explosive atmospheres

• Combustible materials

6.2.1 Training, Supervision andSuitability

Having regard to the criteria set out in paragraph5.1 above relating to risk assessment andcompetence, all persons involved in confinedspace work, whether in supervising, planning orimplementing the safe system of work or inparticipating in the rescue arrangements shouldbe capable of carrying out their roles withoutcompromising their own safety or that of others.To achieve this, adequate instruction and/ortraining is required for the person entrusted withthe responsibility of carrying out the particularrole. Appropriate practice and experience,depending on the complexity and skillrequirements of the particular role, may also benecessary.

The complexity of the task and the responsibilityof the role will determine the level of trainingrequired. Training should involve demonstrationsand practical exercises as appropriate. Wherepractice is provided as part of the training, it isimportant that this practice is realistic insimulating the actual conditions which are likelyto be encountered.

Persons entering a confined space to carry outwork should be fully informed and have acomplete understanding of the potential hazardsthat the work entails.

Supervision or leadership is essential to ensurethat the devised safe system of work isimplemented correctly. The supervisor or teamleader will need a complete understanding of thepotential hazards and of the system of workemployed. Regular and thorough audits arenecessary to ensure that the specified proceduresare being followed.

Where the dimensions of the entry/exit point orthe physical layout of the confined space isconstrained, persons required to enter will needto be of suitable build. They will also need to be



fit for the work concerned, particularly ifrequired to wear breathing apparatus. Somepersons will be unsuitable for confined spacework because of medical conditions, e.g.claustrophobia. In many cases persons required tocarry out work in confined spaces or participatein rescue arrangements will require clearance inadvance by an occupational medical physician.Medical clearance may also be required prior toparticipation in a rigorous training programme.

6.2.2 Permit-to-Work Procedure

A “permit-to-work” procedure is a means ofachieving effective control of a system of workthrough formal written documentation, knownas a permit-to-work form or certificate. Anexample of such a form is shown in Appendix 2.

Use of a permit-to-work procedure as an elementof a safe system of work is required where thereis a need to co-ordinate and control differentactivities and individuals. For example, it isrequired when carrying out confined space work,where control of isolation of plant or equipmentis in the hands of someone who is not in directcontact with the person(s) entering.

For situations where the system of work iscomplex (e.g. involving gas testing, isolation,ventilation, etc.) but where the persons in controlof all aspects are in direct contact with eachother, the use of a checklist may be an equallyeffective alternative.

The essential components of a permit-to-workprocedure include:

(a) a written procedure, which sets out how thesystem is to operate and clearly defines whomay authorise particular jobs and who isresponsible for specifying and implementingthe necessary precautions,

(b) a form, known as the “permit-to-work form”,which becomes a written and signedstatement ensuring both the establishment ofsafe conditions for the work to commenceand the maintenance of safe conditions forthe duration of the work, including the

provision of emergency arrangements,

(c) a method of informing the persons carryingout the work of the exact identity, location,nature and extent of the job, the hazardsinvolved and the precautions to be taken, and

(d) a system for ensuring the safe hand-back ofthe workplace after the job is completed and,in the case of confined space entry, after thespace is vacated.

For a permit-to-work procedure to operatesuccessfully, it is essential that training andinstruction be provided in the issue and use ofpermits. Monitoring will also be required toensure that the system works as intended.

6.2.3 Gas Purging and Ventilation

Where the presence or possible presence offlammable or toxic gases or vapours has beenidentified, there may be a need to purge the gasor vapour from the confined space (e.g. with air,water or an inert gas followed by air). The risk ofcreating an atmosphere containing a mixture offlammable gas and air within the flammablerange during or as a result of the purgingoperation should be considered. Followingpurging, the atmosphere will need to be testedto check that purging has been effective, andthat it is safe to allow people to enter withoutbreathing apparatus. Note that unfavourablephysical dimensions (e.g. inadequate number ofopenings) of the confined space could makeeffective purging a slow and tedious process.

Ventilation of the confined space may benecessary during the work, replacing stale orcontaminated air with fresh air. The riskassessment will determine the type of ventilationsystem, complex or simple, forced or natural,which is required.

Depending on the structure of the confinedspace and the type and duration of the workbeing carried out, mechanical ventilation may berequired to provide sufficient fresh air to replacethe oxygen that is being used up by peopleworking in the space, and to dilute and removegas, fume or vapour produced by the work. This



can be done by using a blower fan and/or anexhaust fan with appropriate ducting. The airblown or drawn into the vessel should be freshand clean. If natural ventilation is sufficient, itseffect can be maximised by use of openingsparticularly at the top and bottom of theconfined space. In some cases extract ventilationmay be used to remove fumes or contaminantsgenerated within the confined space.

Ventilation equipment used for purpose of workin confined spaces needs to be suitable and to beproperly maintained in accordance withmanufacturer’s instructions. It may be necessaryto monitor for any malfunction during operation.

Oxygen should never be used to “sweeten” theair in a confined space as it creates a fire orexplosion hazard as well as having a potentiallytoxic effect.

6.2.4 Dangerous Residues

Cleaning or purging of the contents of a confinedspace prior to entry may not remove someresidues in the form of sludge, scale or otherdeposits. These residues could later provedangerous to the persons entering by allowingthe release of toxic fumes or vapours. Potentiallydangerous gases may also be trapped inbrickwork or other parts of the equipment.Surface coatings may degrade, when subject toheat, releasing toxins.

If the work in the confined space could result inthe disturbance of residues or if there is potentialfor heat to be applied to residues or if a pumpingsystem is liable to be activated, the risk ofgenerating toxic fumes or vapours needs to beconsidered. The risk is particularly significant ifthe work involves the cleaning, removal or othertreatment of the residues.

When the potential for dangerous residues to bepresent in a confined space is foreseeable,control measures to be considered include theimplementation of a rigorous cleaning processbefore entry, the institution of work practiceswhich avoid the disturbance of residues, the useof breathing apparatus or other forms ofrespiratory protective equipment and continuousatmospheric monitoring.

6.2.5 Testing and Monitoring of theAtmosphere

Testing of the atmosphere within a confinedspace may be needed prior to entry to ensurethat the quality of the air is satisfactory. It isnecessary where any doubt exists as to thequality of the atmosphere. Such doubts mayarise, for example, from information about itsprevious contents, or due to the proximity of anynearby processes or conditions that mightcontaminate or render unsafe to breathe theatmosphere in the confined space. Testing willalso be needed where the atmosphere waspurged to remove gases or vapours, so as tocheck the result.



The atmosphere should be tested on a fullyrepresentative basis, taking into account thegeometry of the confined space and the physicalproperties of any potential contaminants (e.g.whether heavier or lighter than air). Testing mayneed to be carried out continuously orintermittently during the work depending on thefindings of the risk assessment. Where workcontinues over a prolonged period, the requiredfrequency of re-testing must be established.

The choice of testing equipment will depend onthe circumstances of the work, the conditions ofthe workplace and knowledge of possiblecontaminants. Testing to measure the oxygencontent will be a common requirement and maybe carried out using portable atmosphericmonitoring equipment. Testing of the oxygencontent should normally be carried out first asother gas monitoring equipment may be accurateonly in a normal (21%) oxygen environment.Testing for a possible flammable atmosphere maybe carried out using a portable device specificallydesigned for measuring flammable atmospheresas % of LEL (Lower Explosive Limit). Testing forcommon toxic or asphyxiating contaminants suchas carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide or hydrogensulphide may also be carried out using a suitableportable apparatus. Suitably calibrated chemicaldetector tubes or specialised atmosphericmonitoring equipment may be used to measurefor unusual toxic contaminants.

The equipment used needs to be in goodworking order and suitable for use in thecircumstances and conditions of the workplace. Itneeds to be calibrated before use, examinedthoroughly and maintained in accordance withthe manufacturer’s instructions. Reports of allthorough examinations and records of calibrationshould be kept.

Testing of the atmosphere should be carried outby competent persons who are capable ofcorrectly interpreting the results. Whereappropriate, records should be kept of the resultsand findings.

Where practicable, initial testing should becarried out from the outside. Where entry isnecessary, it must be carried out using a safe

system of work in accordance with this Code ofPractice.

6.2.6 Mechanical, Electrical andProcess Isolation

All material sources and energy sources that arepotentially hazardous to confined space entrantsshould be disabled for the duration of entry.

Energy sources include mechanical, electrical,radioactive, hydraulic, pneumatic, and effects ofgravity or other stored energy. Examples includeagitators, fans and electrodes. Disabling meansisolation, locking-out, disconnecting and ifnecessary restraining. A system for preventingthe inadvertent and premature enabling of anenergy source should be in place, such as a lockand tag system. Where an energy source mustremain enabled, either for the purposes of thetask being undertaken or as a vital service (e.g.lighting or pumping where flooding is a risk), thisshould be considered in the risk assessment andany necessary precautions taken.

Measures are also necessary to ensure thathazardous materials are prevented from enteringthe confined space for the duration of entry.Effective methods should be used to blank off alllines and systems connected to the confinedspace.

Methods of isolation of process plant vesselsinclude (a) the removal of a valve or spool pieceand blanking of open end, and (b) breaking ofline and insertion of suitable blank (e.g. aspectacle full-pressure spade). Valves mustgenerally be considered liable to pass fluid andshould not be used as a means of isolation,except where small-bore piping and low-riskfluids are involved and where the isolation can beproven to be effective. It is important that theisolation device is installed as close as possible tothe entry vessel. For all but the simplest processplant, the isolations should be checked againstthe piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)for the plant and marked on a suitable copy ofthe P&ID.

The effectiveness of any system of isolationshould be considered as part of the risk



assessment. Isolations of plant are of no value ifthey are not secure. Normally rigorous provingand monitoring of isolation valves is necessarybefore proceeding with the work.

Where it is not practicable to blank off a line, forexample because it is of welded construction,written work procedures should be developedand fully implemented to ensure an equivalentlevel of protection to all workers exposed to thehazard.

The risk of a person becoming locked into theconfined space at the conclusion of work shouldbe addressed in the safe system of work.

6.2.7 Respiratory ProtectiveEquipment

The risk assessment may identify that the use ofrespiratory protective equipment (RPE) isnecessary. In this case, the RPE provided shouldbe suitable for the purpose for which it isintended, i.e., correctly selected and matchedboth to the job and the wearer.

Normally the only suitable RPE for confined spacetype risks will be breathing apparatus (BA), whichdelivers uncontaminated air or oxygen to thewearer from an independent source. Use of BAwill often be the required standard of protectionfor entry into high risk confined spaces.

The different types of BA available include ‘self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)’,‘compressed air-line breathing apparatus’ (CABA)and ‘escape breathing apparatus’ (also known asa ‘self-rescue device’). Suitable use of the latter iscovered in more detail in Section 7.3 of this Codeof Practice. It is important to note that escapebreathing apparatus should only be used forescape purposes and never for normal working.

Any RPE should be to a recognised standard and,where appropriate, carry the 'CE mark'. Itsspecification and use must comply with theSafety, Health and Welfare at Work (GeneralApplication) Regulations 2007.

RPE of the respirator type with filter or cartridgeis not normally appropriate for entry into orwork in most confined spaces except for

protection against low concentrations ofhazardous contaminants. Such equipment doesnot protect against the risk of being overcome -for example, it may not provide adequateprotection against high concentrations of gasesand vapours -and should never be used inoxygen-deficient atmospheres.

Training is necessary for all persons involved inthe use of BA. Users, managers and supervisors,and maintenance staff all need to understandtheir own role in the system. The extent of thetraining that is required will depend on the typeof equipment, the complexity and performanceof the equipment, the work environment inwhich it will be used and the needs of the peoplebeing trained. Training should cover both the useand the maintenance of the equipment. Practiceshould be realistic in simulating actual conditions.Refresher training will be required from time totime. The frequency of this training will dependon the type of equipment and how often it isused by the persons concerned.

Proper storage, maintenance and inspection ofBA is essential. Storage facilities should bedesigned to protect the equipment while not inuse. There should be a clear segregation betweenequipment that is ready for use and that which isawaiting refill, inspection, repair or maintenance.BA should be inspected each time before use. Theexamination of BA will normally comprise athorough visual examination of all parts of therespirator, breathing or resuscitating apparatus,looking particularly at the integrity of the straps,facepieces, filters and valves. Checking of thecylinder pressure will be necessary for self-contained breathing apparatus. Air quality andflowrate should be checked in case ofcompressed airline breathing apparatus. Anydefects discovered by the examination, whichwould undermine safe operation, should beremedied before further use.

6.2.8 Other Personal ProtectiveEquipment

Where it is not reasonably practicable tootherwise control or eliminate hazards, the risk



assessment may identify the use of personalprotective equipment (PPE) as necessary. In thiscase, the PPE chosen needs to be suitable for thepurpose for which it is used. This means that theequipment should provide effective protection tothe user for the defined operation and in thespecified environment. It should be provided bythe responsible person and good use should bemade of it by those entering and working in theconfined space.

The type of PPE provided will depend on thehazards identified but, for example, mightinclude safety harness, lifeline, no-motion alarm,knee and elbow pads, protective clothing orreflective clothing. The specification and use ofPPE must comply with the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work (General Application)Regulations 2007.

Where appropriate, this equipment should havea certificate of test and indication of safeworking load. All equipment should be properlymaintained, stored and inspected, in accordancewith manufacturers’ instructions. Users should begiven appropriate training and instruction.

6.2.9 Safe Use of Work Equipment

Equipment and materials, introduced into aconfined space for the purpose of facilitating thework process, can be potentially hazardous toconfined space entrants. A careful identificationof these hazards should be carried out as part ofthe risk assessment.

As a general rule internal combustion engines,petrol, diesel or gas, should never be used inconfined spaces. In highly controlled situationswhere high reliability ventilation is used, andwhere their use cannot be avoided, dieselengines may be operated safely. Strict controls,including monitoring of exhaust emissions forcarbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen, andrigorous work practices are essential for anycombustion or burning process.

The introduction of cylinders of compressed orliquefied gas (other than those used for self-contained breathing apparatus) and ofcontainers of flammable liquids into a confined

space should be avoided. If it is necessary, thequantity involved should be minimised and strictcontrols employed. Special care should also betaken with combustible materials (See Section6.2.13).

Hoses supplying welding equipment or other gas-operated equipment in a confined space shouldbe located or protected so as to preventaccidental damage which could result in a leak.They should also be checked or tested for leaksbefore use and at regular intervals. The gassupply should be turned off at a point outsidethe confined space when not in use. Duringlonger interruptions, hoses should bedisconnected from supply, again at a pointoutside the confined space.

Portable electrical equipment (other thantransformers, generators or equipment, whoserating exceeds 2 kilovolt amperes) that isintended for use in damp or confined locationsmust not be supplied at voltages exceeding 125voltsAC. Portable handlamps must not besupplied at a voltage exceeding 25 volts ACor 50volts DC. These are requirements of the Safety,Health and Welfare at Work (GeneralApplication) Regulations 2007.

6.2.10Communications

An effective and reliable means ofcommunication between individuals inside theconfined space and between those inside theconfined space and those outside is essential.When choosing a means of communication,consideration should be given to all anticipatedconditions inside the confined space (e.g.visibility, possibility of a flammable atmosphere,and noise levels) and to the personal protectiveequipment in use (e.g. ear muffs and breathingapparatus).

The communication system used can be based onspeech, hand signals, the telephone, radio etc.Whatever system is used, it is important that allmessages can be communicated easily, rapidlyand unambiguously between relevant people.The limited penetration of radio signals intobuildings, vessels and below-ground structures



should be noted. The advantages of having aperson outside the confined space in direct voiceand visual contact with the entrants are clear.This also facilitates the monitoring of entrants forthe symptoms or behavioural effects of exposureto hazards.

It is important that confined space entrant(s) areinformed quickly if a situation arises on theoutside which could endanger the entrants, suchas problems with a supplied air system orventilation system.

The means of raising the alarm and setting inmotion the emergency rescue procedures mustalso be effective and reliable. The line ofcommunications must be available at all timesduring the work.

It should be noted that due to the wide range ofhazards attaching to working in confined spacesthe Mobile Sites Directive requires that workersin confined atmospheres be monitored where theatmosphere is liable to contain a toxic or harmfulsubstance or have an insufficient oxygen level orto be harmful.

6.2.11Access and Egress

A safe and convenient way in and out of theconfined space should be provided for theindividuals carrying out the work. Whereverpossible quick, unobstructed and ready accessand egress should be allowed. The means ofescape must be suitable for use by everyindividual who enters the confined space so thathe or she can quickly escape in an emergency.

The size of openings used for access to and egressfrom confined spaces needs to be adequate toallow ready passage. Openings providing accessneed to be sufficiently large and free fromobstruction to allow the passage of personswearing the necessary protective clothing andequipment, and to allow adequate access forrescue purposes. These openings need to be keptclear whenever a confined space is occupied.Where practicable, an alternative opening shouldbe used for insertion of hoses, ventilation ducts,power lines and other cables required for thework.

Where the possibility for inadvertent orunauthorised entry to a confined space exists, anappropriate means to prevent such entry (e.g. abarrier or safety warning sign that is clear, legibleand conspicuous) should be used.

Certain confined spaces may have designdeficiencies, which increase the level of risk to anunacceptable level, when entering. These includespaces whose openings are too tight for safepassage or which are of convoluted construction,or which involve excessive distances to a point ofescape. Structural modifications (e.g. the makingof temporary openings) will be necessary beforeentry is possible in these cases.

Manufacturers and suppliers of equipment, aswell as designers, engineers and architectsshould, where elimination of the need forpersons to enter a confined space isimpracticable, ensure that entry and exit can beachieved with as much ease as possible. Forexample, manholes should be located at or closeto the bottom of a tank or vessel to facilitateemergency egress, if its design and themanufacturing process allow. Fixed ladders fromtop manholes should be provided wherepracticable.

Manufacturers and designers should be mindfulof any appropriate recognised standard, which isrelevant to the plant or building underconstruction. Some of these standards, e.g. forsilos or sewerage systems, set minimum sizes foraccess hatches or manholes.

6.2.12Flammable or ExplosiveAtmospheres

Where there is a risk of a flammable or explosiveatmosphere existing in a confined space, adequateprecautions to ensure that ignition does not occurmust be taken. To prevent ignition by electricalsources (lighting, mobile phones and radioequipment as well as hand tools, etc.), speciallyprotected electrical equipment, i.e., certified foruse in explosive atmospheres, must be used.Portable electrical equipment even if supplied at110V is not suitable for use in flammableatmospheres unless it has an appropriate Ex rating.



Use of non-sparking tools is sometimes necessary.Precautions against ignition by static electricitydischarges, for example, by earthing, may needto be taken. Smoking is another potential sourceof ignition to be controlled (See Section 6.2.13).

Hot work in a confined space must be strictlycontrolled by a permit or other system.Appropriate precautions to ensure that aflammable atmosphere does not exist, e.g. byinspection and testing, may be necessary. Hotwork on the exterior surface or in the vicinity ofopenings to a confined space must also becarefully controlled.

6.2.13Combustible Materials

WFire in a confined space clearly presents a veryserious risk of injury to occupants. Thus the useand storage of combustible materials in aconfined space should be carefully controlled.Readily flammable materials which are ignitable

by flying sparks should be given particularattention. The provision of fire extinguishers,suitable for use in a confined space should beconsidered. Control of ignition sources isessential.

Where hot work is to be carried out in a confinedspace containing combustible material,appropriate precautions to prevent risk ofignition must be enforced through a hot workpermit system. The risk of ignition occurring afterthe work is completed should also be considered.This is particularly relevant if occupation of theconfined space continues. A fire watch shouldremain in place for an adequate period after thework is complete.

Smoking should always be prohibited in confinedspaces and in the vicinity of access points.


7. Emergency and Rescue Procedures

7.1 Rescue Arrangements

Whenever work in a confined space is carriedout, arrangements that are suitable and sufficientfor the rescue of persons in the event of anemergency therein must be in place. Whereappropriate, the necessary equipment to enablerescue and resuscitation procedures to be carriedout must be available. The arrangements must bein place before any person enters or commenceswork in that confined space.

The risk assessment will determine whatemergency arrangements are necessary. Thearrangements will depend on the nature of theconfined space, the risks identified and the typesof emergency situations which are foreseeable.Account needs to be taken not only of possibleemergencies arising by virtue of the enclosednature of the confined space, but also of anyother foreseeable accident which might makenecessary a rescue operation. An example is theincapacitation of a person, wholly or partially,following a fall inside a confined space.

Possible confined space rescue strategies includethe following:

• Self-rescue where the circumstances, thenature of the hazards and the controlmeasures available allow.

• Rescue by trained team members using non-entry methods, if feasible.

• Rescue by trained team members using a safeentry technique.

• Rescue using a safe entry technique by thelocal public emergency services subject toadequate time being available (this dependson the nature of the hazards and theresponse time of the emergency services).

The risk assessment will determine whatcombination of confined space rescue strategiesis appropriate for the particular situation.

To be suitable and sufficient the emergencyarrangements should take account of:

• Training

• Rescue logistics

• Rescue equipment

• Resuscitation procedures and equipment

7.2 Training

Any person, who has a role to play in carryingout emergency arrangements, must havereceived appropriate instruction and training toenable him or her to perform that roleeffectively. The level of training required,whether basic or advanced, formal or informal,will vary according to the complexity and skillcontent of the role. Refresher training should beprovided as often as necessary to maintain anacceptable level of competence.

Familiarity with procedures and equipment isessential and can be developed and fine-tuned byfrequent drills and realistic simulation.

Potential rescuers will need an understanding ofthe likely causes of an emergency. They will needto be familiar with the rescue plan andprocedures developed for each type of confinedspace that they may encounter. They need to beable to rapidly size-up an emergency situationand evaluate their ability to conduct a saferescue. These factors need to be givenconsideration in the development of a trainingprogram. The training should be designed toprovide the rescuers the capability to performrescues in a safe and timely manner.

Potential users of equipment provided for rescue,communications or medical purposes need to befully familiar with its use and operation. They willalso need to be able to check that the equipmentis in full working order prior to use. Potentialusers of breathing apparatus must have receivedthe appropriate formal training. Personsdesignated to carry out resuscitation proceduresmust be trained to carry out those proceduresefficiently and effectively. Designated first-aidersneed appropriate current certification.

To ensure the capability of rescuers and othersinvolved in carrying out the emergencyarrangements, a system of evaluation, usingobjective criteria, may be necessary. Trainers andinstructors should be appropriately qualified and



experienced to carry out their roles effectively.

7.3 Rescue Logistics

The means of raising the alarm and carrying outa rescue must be given careful consideration andan emergency plan formulated. This emergencyplan needs to be suitable and sufficient for allanticipated accidents.

There should be measures in place to enablethose in the confined space to communicate toothers outside the space who can initiate rescueprocedures or summon help in an emergency. Theemergency can be communicated in a number ofways, for example by the tug of a rope, by radioor by means of a 'lone worker' alarm. Whateverthe system, it should be reliable and testedfrequently. Depending on the risk assessment, itmay be necessary to have one or more standbypersons located outside the confined spacewhose function is to keep those inside inconstant direct visual contact in case ofemergency.

The selection of an appropriate confined spacerescue strategy must be given carefulconsideration. Retrieval using non-entry methodsis preferable to rescue by entry and should beused where practicable.

Where entry is necessary, the risk of rescuersthemselves becoming injured and thuscompounding an emergency situation must beaddressed and measures taken to ensure that therescuers are themselves protected. Theprecautions necessary to protect the rescuersshould be considered during the risk assessment,and adequate provisions made when preparingthe emergency plan.

The method of retrieving a casualty from aconfined space needs to be carefully planned.Lifting equipment will often be needed incombination with a safety harness and line, sinceeven the strongest person is unlikely to be ableto lift or handle an unconscious person on theirown using only a rope. The harness and lineshould be adjusted and worn so that the wearercan be safely drawn through any manhole oropening. The harness used should be of suitable

construction both for the lift required and theenvironment in which it is to be used. Rememberthat a safety line will be of little or no valueunless its free end is secured where it can bereached by rescuers.

The use of breathing apparatus (BA) will often beconsidered as a means of protecting the rescuersfrom the cause of the emergency. BA may beeither of the self-contained or airline-fed types.In the case of the latter, a suitable supply ofcompressed air is essential and the length of theairline needs to be taken into account. The use ofRPE of the canister respirator or cartridge type isnot acceptable for use by rescuers.

The number, size and location of access/egressopenings will have an important bearing on thechoice of rescue methods and equipment. It willoften be necessary to check that a personwearing suitable equipment can safely andreadily pass through such openings. Experiencehas shown that the minimum size of an openingto allow access with rescue facilities includingself-contained breathing apparatus is 575 mmdiameter. In case of restricted openings, airline-fed breathing apparatus offers a more compactalternative.

The use by the occupants of a confined space ofequipment known as ‘escape breathingapparatus’ or 'self-rescue' devices may beappropriate for situations where there will betime to react to an anticipated emergencysituation, for example, smoke logging in tunnelsor reacting to atmospheric monitoring devices.These devices are intended to allow the user timeto exit the hazard area. They are generallycarried by the user or stationed inside theconfined space, but are not used until needed.They are designed to operate for only a shortduration, which must be sufficient to allow theuser move to a place of safety. They should bemade available only where the type provided issuitable for the hazard expected in theemergency situation.

Arrangements should be in place (including ameans of communications) to summon the localemergency services (e.g. local Fire or AmbulanceService) without delay should an accident occur



and for providing them with all knowninformation about the conditions and risks ofentering the confined space on arrival.

Reliance on the local emergency services to carryout rescue is not acceptable if the risk assessmentdetermines that a more timely rescue is necessary.For example, if resuscitation is likely to benecessary as a consequence of a foreseeableincident (e.g. the exposure of a confined spaceoccupant to a severe oxygen-deficientatmosphere) it should generally begin within 4minutes of the person collapsing. Emergencyplanners should be mindful of theseconsiderations when devising the rescue strategy.

Where there are a number of entrants into aconfined space, the method of carrying out a full-scale evacuation should be addressed. Measuresto prevent openings from becoming bottlenecksmay be necessary.

The question of whether the lighting in theconfined space is adequate to facilitate asuccessful rescue should be addressed.Obstructions in the confined space and thepresence of fog or mist due to high humidity maylead to poor visibility. If the existence of aflammable atmosphere is possible, any lighting,including hand-held torches, will have to beintrinsically safe.

7.4 Rescue Equipment

Rescue and emergency equipment needs to besuitable and sufficient to allow emergencyarrangements be carried out in a timely and safemanner. The equipment provided should beappropriate for the likely types of emergenciesidentified in the risk assessment, and should beproperly maintained. It should be readilyavailable, whenever and wherever confinedspace work is undertaken.

Ropes, harnesses, fall arrest gear, lifelines, liftingequipment, first aid equipment, protectiveclothing and other special equipment providedfor use in case of emergency should be suitablefor the purposes for which they are intended,and account taken of appropriate recognisedstandards where these exist.

Rescue equipment will often include self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Itsduration of use is governed by the size andnumber of cylinders and by its type (open-circuitor closed-circuit). For further details andmaintenance requirements of breathingapparatus, see Section 6.2.7.

Appropriate first aid equipment should beprovided and available for emergencies and toprovide first aid until professional medical helparrives. First-aiders should be trained to deal withthe foreseeable injuries.

All equipment provided for the purposes ofemergency arrangements should be properlymaintained and inspected. Inspection shouldinclude periodic examination and testing asnecessary. This shall be in accordance with themanufacturer’s instructions or with therequirements of health and safety legislation asappropriate.

The examination of ropes, harnesses, lifelines,protective clothing, and other special equipmentwill normally consist of a thorough visualexamination of all their parts for deterioration ordamage, in particular of those parts that areload-bearing. Examinations should be carried outregularly and reports kept.

Lifting equipment, such as ropes, harnesses,lifelines, shackles, etc. should have a certificate oftest and safe working load when purchased. It isimportant to ensure they are not further tested(as this could weaken them). If they becomedamaged, they should be scrapped. Otherwise,they should be returned to the manufacturer orother competent repairer who can carry out thenecessary remedial work and supply a newcertificate of test and safe working load for therepaired equipment.

Communications equipment can facilitate aconfined space rescue by saving time in relayinginstructions and medical information. Reliablecommunications can have a calming effect onrescuers, leading to a more efficient operation.Equipment should be suitably protected where arisk of a flammable atmosphere exists.



7.5 Resuscitation Procedures andEquipment

If resuscitation is likely to be necessary in theevent of an accident, arrangements should bemade for its provision. These arrangements willinclude training of potential rescuers inresuscitation techniques and in the use of anyresuscitation equipment or ancillary equipmentto be provided. It is important that appropriatemedical advice be consulted before putting inplace any system for providing resuscitation andthat the level of available expertise be taken intoconsideration.

Resuscitation procedures include respiratory andcirculatory resuscitation procedures. These aresimple procedures that most people would becapable of carrying out provided they have beentrained. Training and refresher training areessential since the speed with which resuscitationis started is often as important as how well it isdone.

Ancillary devices may be needed for oralresuscitation: these avoid direct contact betweenthe mouths of the victim and rescuer, forexample, by using special tubes and mouthpieces.However, if resuscitation is needed as a result ofexposure to toxic gases, oral methods are notappropriate since they could put the rescuer atrisk. In some cases equipment for artificialrespiration as a follow-up to, or in place of, oralresuscitation is appropriate. This equipmentshould be operated by someone with thenecessary specialist training, or it can be keptavailable, properly maintained, on site for use bya person providing professional medical help.


Appendix 1Logic Flowsheet ForWork in Confined Spaces


IDENTIFICATIONWork in Con�ned Space

Is it practicable to dowork without entry?

RISK ASSESSMENTIdentify HazardsEvaluate Hazards

Yes

No

Yes

ENTRY REQUIREMENTSDetermine Control Measures

Determine Emergency Arrangements

Proceed with Entry

Periodically Re-evaluate Hazards

Have activitiesor conditions

changed?

Complete Work

NormalRisk

Assessment

AvoidEntry

Appendix 2Example of a Permit-to-Work Form forWork in Confined Spaces

Confined Space Entry Permit-to-Work Certificate

IMPORTANT: Avoid entry into confined space if it is reasonably practical to achieve work objectivewithout such entry

1. Plant Site Name/Location

2. Plant/area where work is to be carried outSpecify vessel/manhole/identifying plant no. etc.

3.Description of work to be carried out

4. Employees/Contractors assignedList names of employees and/or contractors and duties assigned.

5. Hazards IdentifiedSpecify

6. Isolation from Hazardous Substances

Confirm that confined space has been securely isolated from all sources of ingress of dangerous fumes,liquids, water, steam, materials, etc.

P&I Diagram checked Signed Time/Date



7. Isolation from Energy SourcesConfirm that confined space has been securely isolated from all energy sources, electrical power,mechanical power, heat, radioactive sources, etc.

Braking systems appliedLocks and tags fixed Signed Time/Date

8. Cleaning, Purging and VentilationConfirm that confined space and associated area/plant/equipment has been cleared of hazardousmaterials.

Effective ventilation in place Signed Time/Date

9. Testing of AtmosphereIndicate results of testing carried out. Oxygen Results

FlammablesOther contaminants (List)

Continuous monitoring required Signed Time/Date

Specify further testing required, frequency, etc.

10. Hot WorkSpecify additional precautions Separate “Hot Work Permit” requiredto be observed.

11. Emergency and Rescue ProceduresSpecify emergency and rescue procedures (including personnel and equipment) that are to be in placefor duration of entry.



12. Personal Protective EquipmentSpecify PPE to be used by persons entering (including BA or “self-rescue devices” as appropriate).

13. Precautions to be takenSpecify additional precautions to be taken, and limitations on work, work equipment, workmaterials, etc.

Specify additional checks and monitoring to be carried out during work.


Person authorised to specify/order workI certify that work described at 2. and 3. above,involving entry into a confined space, is requiredand that it is not reasonably practicable to fulfilpurpose without such entry.

Signed Date

Persons entering or involved inimplementing safe system of workI/we understand the procedures required forentry/work and the conditions and precautionsto be observed.

Signed Date

Signed Date

Signed Date

Signed Date

Signed Date

Signed Date

Competent person responsible foroverseeing workI have read and understood this certificate and

will undertake to work in accordance with the

conditions and precautions specified.

Permit valid until

Signed Time/ Date

Competent person responsible forauthorising work to proceedI certify that it is safe for work detailed above toproceed, by persons assigned at 4. above, subjectto the conditions and precautions specified beingfully observed.

Permit valid until

Signed Time/Date

Completion/HandbackThe work has been completed/suspended and all

persons and equipment have been withdrawn.

Plant is fit/unfit for use. (Delete as appropriate)

Signed Time/Date

Appendix 3Safety,Health andWelfare atWork (Confined Spaces)Regulations 2001(S.I. No. 218 of 2001

S.I. No. 218 of 2001Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2001

ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONSRegulation

1. Citation and Commencement

2. Interpretation

3. Application of Regulations

4. Duties

5. Work in Confined Spaces

6. Emergency Arrangements

7. Revocations

I, Tom Kitt, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, in exercise ofthe powers conferred on me by section 28 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989 ( No. 7of 1989 ) in relation to the matters set out in paragraphs (2), (3), (5), (25), (26), (28) and (32) of theFourth Schedule to that Act, the Labour (Transfer of Departmental Administration and MinisterialFunctions) Order 1993 ( S.I. No. 18 of 1993 )(as adapted by the Enterprise and Employment (Alterationof Name of Department and Title of Minister) Order 1997 ( S.I. No. 305 of 1997 )), and the Enterprise,Trade and Employment (Delegation of Ministerial Functions)(No. 2) Order 1997 ( S.I. No. 330 of 1997 )and after consultation with the National Authority for Occupational Safety and Health, hereby makethe following regulations:

Citation and Commencement1. (1) These Regulations may be cited as the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Confined Spaces)

Regulations 2001.(2) These Regulations shall come into operation on the 31st day of August 2001.

Interpretation2. (1) In these Regulations -

“confined space” means any place which, by virtue of its enclosed nature creates conditions whichgive rise to a likelihood of accident, harm or injury of such a nature as to require emergency actiondue to

(a) the presence or the reasonably foreseeable presence of(i) flammable or explosive atmospheres,(ii) harmful gas, fume, or vapour,(iii) free flowing solid or an increasing level of liquid,(iv) excess of oxygen,(v) excessively high temperature,

(b) lack or reasonably foreseeable lack of oxygen;“diving operations” has the meaning assigned to it by Regulation 2 (1) of the Safety in Industry(Diving Operations) Regulations 1981 ( S.I. No. 422 of 1981 );



“free flowing solid” means any substance consisting of solid particles and which is, or iscapable of being in, a flowing or running consistency, and includes flour, grain, sugar, granularanimal feeds, sand or other similar material;

“mine” has the meaning assigned thereto by section 3 of the Mines and Quarries Act 1965 (No.7 of 1965);

(2) In these Regulations, a reference to a paragraph is to a paragraph in the Regulation in which thereference occurs, unless it is indicated that reference to some other Regulation is intended, and areference to a Regulation or a Schedule is to a Regulation of, or a Schedule to, these Regulations,unless it is indicated that reference to some other Regulation or Schedule is intended.

Application of Regulations3. (1) The provisions of Regulations 2, 4 and Part II of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General

Application) Regulations 1993 (S.I. No. 44 of 1993) shall apply in full to the application of theprovisions of these Regulations.

(2) These Regulations shall not apply to or in relation to -(a) any place below ground in a mine; or(b) any diving operations.

(3) These Regulations shall apply to a self-employed person as they apply to an employer and as ifthat self-employed person was an employer and his own employee.

Duties4. (1) It shall be the duty of every employer to ensure -

(a) compliance with the provisions of these Regulations in respect of any work carried out byhis employees; and

(b) compliance with the provisions of these Regulations in respect of any work carried out bypersons other than his employees insofar as the provisions relate to matters which arewithin his control.

(2) It shall be the duty of every employer and self-employed person involved in sharing a place ofwork with another employer or self-employed to co-operate in implementing the provisions ofthese Regulations.

(3) Without prejudice to paragraph (1), it shall be the duty of every person at work to(a) co-operate in carrying out the provisions of these Regulations; and(b) make proper use of equipment including any personal protective equipment or other items

provided for that person's health and safety.

Work in Confined Spaces5. (1) A person shall not enter a confined space to carry out work or any duty connected with that

work (which work or duty is referred to in this Regulation and in Regulation 6 as a “workactivity”) for any purpose unless it is not reasonably practicable to achieve that purposewithout such entry.

(2) Without prejudice to paragraph (1), a person shall not enter a confined space to carry out awork activity in that confined space unless an identification and evaluation of the risks tosafety and health arising from such entry or such work activity have been made.



(3) (a) Without prejudice to paragraph (1), a person shall not enter a confined space to carry outa work activity in that confined space unless there has been provided a system of work,

which has been planned, organised, performed and maintained so as to render that worksafe and without risks to health.

(b) Any person involved in carrying out the system of work required under subparagraph (a) ofthis paragraph, shall be provided with adequate information, instruction and trainingappropriate to the particular characteristics of the work activity involved.

Emergency Arrangements6. (1) Without prejudice to Regulation 5 (1), a person shall not enter a confined space to carry out a

work activity in that confined space unless there have been prepared in respect of that spacesuitable and sufficient arrangements for the rescue of persons in the event of an emergency.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1), the emergency arrangements shallinclude -(a) all practicable measures necessary to ensure the safety and health of any person required

to take part in the arrangements for rescue,(b) the provision of a suitable and reliable means of raising the alarm in the event of an

emergency,(c) the making readily available of such equipment at point of use as is necessary to enable

rescue procedures to be carried out and the maintenance of this equipment to ensure itsreliability,

(d) the provision to any person, who is required to take part in the arrangements for rescue,of adequate information, instruction and training appropriate to the particular

characteristics of the work activity involved, and(e) where the need for resuscitation of any person is a likely consequence of a foreseeable risk,

the provision and maintenance of such equipment as is necessary to enable resuscitationprocedures to be carried out and the provision of appropriate training to any persons requiredto carry out these resuscitation procedures.

(3) The emergency arrangements referred to in paragraph (1) shall be put into operation immediately,whenever there arises any circumstance to which those arrangements relate.

Revocations7. The Regulations specified in column (2) of the Schedule are hereby revoked to the extent specified incolumn (3) of the Schedule.



ScheduleRegulation 7

Regulations Revoked

Number and Year Title Extent of Revocation

(1) (2) (3)

S.I. No. 279 of 1960 Docks (Safety, Health and Welfare) Regulations 1960 Regulation 18.

S.I. No. 322 of 1975 Shipbuilding and Ship-repairing (Safety, Health Regulations 49,50,51and Welfare) Regulations 1975 and 52.

S.I. No. 311 of 1979 Dangerous Substances (Retail and Private Regulations 48, 49Petroleum Stores) Regulations 1979 and 50.

S.I. No. 312 of 1979 Dangerous Substances (Oil Jetties) Regulations 1979 Regulation 46.

S.I. No. 313 of 1979 Dangerous Substances (Petroleum Bulk Stores) Regulations 62 and 63.Regulations 1979

S.I. No. 314 of 1979 Dangerous Substances (Conveyance of Petroleum Regulations 21 andby Road) Regulations 1979 34 (3).

S.I. No. 138 of 1995 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulation 36.Regulations 1995

Given under my hand this 22nd day of May 2001

Tom KittMinister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment



EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Regulations and does not purport to be a legal interpretation.)

These Regulations impose requirements and prohibitions with respect to the safety and health ofpersons carrying out work in confined spaces, as defined in Regulation 2(1). They apply to all workactivities involving confined spaces, with the exception of activities below ground at a mine and divingoperations.

The Regulations -

(a) prohibit the entry into a confined space for the purpose of carrying out work or any dutyconnected with that work where it is reasonably practicable to carry out the work by other means(Regulation 5(1));

(b) require a risk identification and evaluation to be carried out prior to entering a confined space forthe purpose of carrying out work (Regulation 5(2));

(c) require that entry into a confined space or work in a confined space be carried out only inaccordance with a safe system of work (Regulation 5(3)(a));

(d) require the persons involved in carrying out the system of work to be adequately informed,instructed and trained appropriate to the particular characteristics of the work activity involved(Regulation 5(3)(b));

(e) require the preparation of suitable and sufficient arrangements for the rescue of any person atwork in a confined space in case of an emergency (Regulation 6(1));

(f) impose requirements with regard to the content of the emergency arrangements, including theprovision of a suitable and reliable means of raising the alarm in an emergency, the provision andmaintenance of necessary rescue equipment, the provision of appropriate information, instructionand training and, where necessary, the provision and maintenance of resuscitation equipment andthe provision of appropriate training to any persons required to carry out resuscitation procedures(Regulation 6(2));

(g) require the implementation of the emergency arrangements in the event of an emergency(Regulation 6(3)).



These Regulations revoke and replace Regulation 18 of the Docks (Safety, Health and Welfare)Regulations 1960, Regulations 49 to 52 of the Shipbuilding and Ship-repairing (Safety, Health andWelfare) Regulations 1975, Regulations 48 to 50 of the Dangerous Substances (Retail and PrivatePetroleum Stores) Regulations 1979, Regulation 46 of the Dangerous Substances (Oil Jetties)Regulations 1979, Regulations 62 and 63 of the Dangerous Substances (Petroleum Bulk Stores)Regulations 1979, Regulations 21 and 34 (3) of the Dangerous Substances (Conveyance of Petroleum byRoad) Regulations 1979 and Regulation 36 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction)Regulations 1995.

The Regulations also replace the provisions of section 38 of the Factories Act 1995, as amended bysection 21 of the Safety in Industry Act 1980, the repeal of which is activated by the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work Act 1989 (Repeal of Section 38 of Factories Act 1955)(Commencement) Order 2001,made under sections 1(2) and 4(3) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989.


ISBN No: 978-1-84496-135-1 HSA 0341

Documents

CodeofPractice forWorkingin ConfinedSpaces · Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and with the consent of the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and