CSP/Specific Spaces/TBT-CSP-007

Top Man and Entry Controller Duties

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Top Man and Entry Controller Duties

Toolbox Talk Record

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

  • The top man (entry controller) is the person stationed at the entrance to a confined space.
  • Their sole duty is to monitor and communicate with those working inside the space.
  • Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 require a competent person to control entry at all times.
  • The top man must never leave the entry point while workers remain inside the space.
  • They maintain a log of who enters and exits, including entry and exit times.
  • The top man monitors atmospheric readings relayed from gas detectors inside the space.
  • They must be trained in the emergency rescue plan and know how to raise the alarm.
  • Communication methods include voice, radio, tug-line signals, or electronic systems.
  • The entry controller checks that the permit to work is valid before anyone enters.
  • If conditions deteriorate, the top man has authority to order immediate evacuation of the space.

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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