Confined space entry

Entering enclosed or partly enclosed spaces, such as tanks, pits, ducts and vessels, that are not designed to be occupied and may hold a dangerous atmosphere or restrict escape.

Also known as: Confined space, Confined spaces, Entry into confined space, Tank entry, Pit entry

How to control confined space entry

Avoid entry by doing the work from outside, using remote tools, cameras or extended reach equipment.
Identify every confined space on the site, and mark and lock entries to stop unauthorised access.
Isolate the space from services, pipes and moving plant, and lock out and tag the isolation points before entry.
Test and monitor the atmosphere before and during entry, and ventilate the space to keep it safe.
Issue an entry permit, appoint a standby person outside the space and set a tested rescue plan with trained rescuers and rescue equipment.
Train entrants and standby people for confined space work, and provide supplied-air breathing equipment or retrieval gear where required.

Typical controls, most effective first. Your SWMS sets the controls for your own job and site.