Confined spacesConfined space entry procedures

Confined space entry procedures

• Must include

o Lockout and isolation

o Air testing

o Ventilation

o Standby persons

o Personal protective equipment (PPE)

o Rescue

o Entry permit

• Must be created by a qualified person

2

Lockout and isolation

• Lockout and isolation to protect workers from hazardous energy and harmful substances in the confined space

• Attach locks or switches to lock out product sources, energy sources, and controls for all moving equipment, OR isolate by disconnecting or inserting a blank or blind

• Written procedures for lockout and isolation

• Isolation points checked visually

3

Lockout – valves

4

Lockout – electric switches

5

Isolation of “clean-in-place” systems

6

Isolation of piping – blank

7

8

Air testing

• Test air for toxic gases and oxygen-deficient or explosive atmosphere

• Test at least 20 minutes before a worker enters a confined space

• Record and post results

9

Air testing

• Ventilate confined spaces before and during work in the space

10

Standby persons

• Standby person (or persons) must be stationed at or near the entrance to the space

• Standby person maintains communication with the workers in the space

11

Rescue

• Dedicated rescue team must be available and stationed at entrance to confined space

• Written rescue procedures

• Trained for confined space rescue

• Rescue team must conduct annual drills

12

Entry permitRequired if • A high-hazard atmosphere where workers could be

injured or killed if the ventilation system or respirator fails)

• Lockout or isolation are required• A hazard of entrapment or engulfment

Included on the permit• Type and nature of the confined space• Work activities that will take place• Names of workers in the space• Air testing results• Control measures and precautions required• Signature of supervisor

13

Qualified Person

Confined space entry procedures must be prepared by a Qualified Person, which can include• Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) • Registered Occupational Hygienist (ROH) • Certified Safety Professional (CSP) • Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) • Professional Engineer (P.Eng.)• Others who have experience working with confined spaces

and have a combination of education and training acceptable to WorkSafeBC