Top Man and Entry Controller Duties

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-CSP-007  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

Why?

Prevent fatalitiesConfined space deaths often occur because nobody was monitoring the entry or raising the alarm. A dedicated top man saves lives.
Legal requirementThe Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and associated ACoP require arrangements for rescue, including a person stationed at the entry.
Rapid rescueWithout a top man, rescuers may not know how many people are inside or what conditions they face, delaying critical response.
Do Don't
  • Stay at the confined space entry point at all times during the work.
  • Maintain a written log of every person entering and leaving the space.
  • Check the permit to work is valid and displayed before entry begins.
  • Confirm rescue equipment is in place and functional before work starts.
  • Monitor atmospheric readings and react immediately to any alarm conditions.
  • Maintain continuous communication with personnel inside the confined space.
  • Know the emergency rescue plan and your specific role within it.
  • Carry a charged radio or phone to summon emergency assistance quickly.
  • Stop entry immediately if conditions change or the permit expires.
  • Brief incoming workers on hazards and required PPE before they enter.
  • DON'T leave the entry point unattended while anyone is inside the space.
  • DON'T enter the confined space yourself to assist or investigate a problem.
  • DON'T allow unauthorised persons to enter the confined space.
  • DON'T ignore gas alarm activations or dismiss them as instrument faults.
  • DON'T carry out other tasks or become distracted from your monitoring duties.
  • DON'T allow entry without a valid, signed permit to work in place.
  • DON'T assume someone else is tracking who is inside the space.
  • DON'T fail to test communication systems before the work begins.
  • DON'T permit entry if rescue equipment is missing or not working.
  • DON'T delay raising the alarm if you lose contact with anyone inside.

See also: Confined Space Entry Procedures | Emergency Rescue Plans
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