Confined Space Permits

A confined space permit is a formal document authorising entry into a specific confined space under defined safe conditions.
The permit system ensures that all hazards have been assessed, controls are in place, and rescue arrangements are ready.
The permit must be issued by an authorised, competent person who has inspected the space and verified all precautions.
Key information on the permit includes the space location, hazards, atmospheric test results, PPE, and rescue plan details.
The permit is valid for a single entry period only — typically one shift — and must be reissued for subsequent entries.
All entrants must read, understand, and sign the permit before entering the confined space.
The permit must be displayed at the entry point where it is visible to the entry controller and all entrants.
Changes in conditions such as gas alarm, weather change, or ventilation failure require the permit to be cancelled immediately.
The permit must be formally handed back to the issuer and cancelled when work is complete or the entry period ends.
A register of all confined space permits must be maintained on site for audit and compliance review.

Formal control	The permit ensures every safety measure is checked and confirmed before anyone enters a potentially lethal environment.
Communication	The permit documents exactly who is entering, what hazards exist, and what controls are in place — preventing misunderstanding.
Legal requirement	The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 require a safe system of work including permits for all confined space entries.

Do

Don't

Obtain a signed confined space permit before any person enters the space.
Verify all control measures on the permit are in place before authorising entry.
Record atmospheric test results on the permit before entry is permitted.
Ensure all entrants read, understand, and sign the permit before entering.
Display the permit at the entry point, visible to the entry controller.
Cancel the permit immediately if conditions change or gas alarms activate.
Hand the permit back to the issuer when work is complete or the shift ends.
Maintain a register of all confined space permits issued on the project.
Reissue a new permit for each subsequent entry period or shift change.
Audit permit records regularly to ensure compliance and identify improvements.

DON'T enter any confined space without a valid, signed permit in place.
DON'T issue a permit without physically checking that all controls are in place.
DON'T leave atmospheric test results blank on the permit — they must be recorded.
DON'T allow anyone to enter who has not signed the permit and understood the conditions.
DON'T hide the permit — it must be displayed at the entry point at all times.
DON'T continue entry if conditions change — cancel the permit and evacuate immediately.
DON'T leave the site without formally handing back and cancelling the permit.
DON'T lose or discard completed permits — maintain them in the site register.
DON'T use a permit from a previous shift — a new permit is required each entry period.
DON'T treat the permit as paperwork — it is a life-critical safety control document.

See also: Confined Space Entry Procedures | Permit to Work Awareness

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