Confined Space Entry Procedures

A confined space entry procedure is the formal system that controls who enters, how they enter, and how they are rescued.
The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 require a safe system of work for every confined space entry.
A written permit to enter must be issued before any person enters a confined space on site.
Atmospheric testing must be carried out before entry and continuously monitored throughout the work.
The entry controller or top man must remain at the entry point for the entire duration of the entry.
A written rescue plan with tested equipment must be in place and briefed before entry is permitted.
Continuous ventilation using forced fresh air supply is required for most confined space entries.
Communication between the entrant and the entry controller must be maintained at all times using agreed methods.
The number of people inside the confined space at any time must be limited to the minimum necessary.
All entrants must be trained, medically fit, and briefed on the specific hazards of the space being entered.

Save lives	Correct entry procedures prevent the atmospheric, engulfment, and entrapment deaths that occur in confined spaces every year.
Rescue readiness	Over half of confined space deaths are would-be rescuers — a pre-planned rescue with tested equipment is mandatory.
Legal compliance	The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 require permits, atmospheric monitoring, and rescue plans — breaches carry severe penalties.

Do

Don't

Obtain a signed confined space entry permit before anyone enters the space.
Test the atmosphere for oxygen, flammable gases, and toxic gases before entry.
Ensure the entry controller is in position at the entry point before work begins.
Brief all entrants on the rescue plan and check that rescue equipment is tested and ready.
Set up continuous ventilation using forced fresh air before and during the entry.
Maintain communication with the entrant at all times using agreed signals or radio.
Limit the number of people inside the confined space to the minimum required.
Monitor the atmosphere continuously throughout the duration of the entry.
Ensure all entrants are trained, medically fit, and briefed on the specific hazards.
Cancel the permit and evacuate if any condition changes or a gas alarm activates.

DON'T enter any confined space without a signed, valid entry permit.
DON'T assume the atmosphere is safe — test before entry and monitor continuously.
DON'T leave the entry point unattended while anyone is inside the space.
DON'T enter without a rescue plan and tested rescue equipment in place.
DON'T enter without ventilation — stagnant air in confined spaces can be immediately fatal.
DON'T lose communication with the entrant — re-establish contact immediately if it fails.
DON'T allow more people inside the space than the permit specifies.
DON'T ignore gas monitor alarms — evacuate the space and report immediately.
DON'T allow untrained or medically unfit persons to enter any confined space.
DON'T attempt an unplanned rescue — follow the rescue plan and use the provided equipment.

See also: Confined Space Awareness | Atmospheric Monitoring & Gas Testing

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