Page 7 - Confined Space Entry - CCPS Safe Work Practice

Strategies and Effective Practices

to Manage and Mitigate Hazards

Identify Hazards in Confined Spaces

g Hazards to look for include the following:
• Corrosive materials
• Toxic materials
• Hot materials
• Material under pressure
• Oxygen-deficient atmosphere
• Engulfment by solids
• Exposure to radiation
• Areas conducive to slips, trips, and falls

g Eliminate identified hazards prior to entry if possible.
g If hazards cannot be eliminated, provide necessary safety equipment to enable entrants to safely work
in the presence of the hazard (for example, breathing air in an oxygen deficient atmosphere).

g Communicate the hazards to confined space entrants and Entry Attendant.
g It is recommended that the hazard evaluation state the conditions to stop a confined space entry if
a hazard is detected while people are in the confined space (i.e., stop the entry if O2 level falls below 19%
or if LEL rises above 25%).

Test the Atmosphere in the confined space prior to entry and during entry

g Calibrate and test the atmospheric monitoring equipment for proper function prior to use. Test the atmosphere
at several locations and heights in the confined space. Depending on the potential hazards that may be present,
the confined space may need to be tested for toxics, flammables, and/or oxygen deficiency.
g Specify in permit the required frequency of testing (continuous, hourly, etc.). Ensure that the Entry Attendant
is trained in the use of atmospheric monitoring equipment.

g Specify in permit the conditions for evacuation from confined space due to inadequate atmosphere.
g Provide means of communication between Entry Attendant and entrants so that changes in atmosphere can
be provided to entrants.

Keep the confined space ventilated throughout the duration of confined
space activities

g Identify location of ventilation points during hazard evaluation.
g Complete engineering calculations to confirm adequacy of ventilation plan.

2022 CONFINED SPACE ENTRY 7