CSP/Specific Spaces/TBT-CSP-007

Top Man and Entry Controller Duties

Confined Spaces › Specific Spaces › Top Man and Entry Controller Duties

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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.

Prevent fatalities	Confined space deaths often occur because nobody was monitoring the entry or raising the alarm. A dedicated top man saves lives.
Legal requirement	The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and associated ACoP require arrangements for rescue, including a person stationed at the entry.
Rapid rescue	Without a top man, rescuers may not know how many people are inside or what conditions they face, delaying critical response.

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See also: Confined Space Entry Procedures | Emergency Rescue Plans

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