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WorkSafeBC

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Confined Space Entry


Confined space hazards are often quite complex. For assistance in preparing a written confined space entry program consult a qualified occupational health and safety professional. For more information see Confined Space Entry Program: A reference manual (PDF 783 KB) and also Regulation and Guidelines for Confined Spaces.

General requirements for confined spaces include:

  • Identify confined spaces - The employer must identify each confined space in the workplace, and determine whether the spaces will require entry by a worker.
  • Prohibit entry - If a confined space exists at a workplace but no worker entry is required, the employer must ensure that each point of access to the confined space is secured against entry or identified by a sign or other effective means which indicates the nature of the hazard and the prohibition of entry, and that workers are instructed not to enter.
  • Control hazards - Whenever possible engineering solutions should be implemented, such as robotic cameras for the inspection of tanks, to avoid entering confined spaces. Also, measures should be taken to convert spaces containing high or moderate hazard atmospheres to contain low hazard atmospheres. The employer must ensure that all confined space hazards are eliminated or minimized and that work is performed in a safe manner.
  • Prepare and implement a confined space entry program
    Before a worker is required or permitted to enter a confined space, the employer must prepare and implement a written confined space entry program which includes:

    • (a) an assignment of responsibilities,
    (b) a list of each confined space or group of similar spaces and a hazard assessment of those spaces, and
    (c) written safe work procedures for entry into and work in the confined space, that address, where applicable

    • identification and entry permits
    • lockout and isolation
    • verification and testing
    • cleaning, purging, venting or inerting
    • ventilation
    • standby persons
    • rescue
    • lifelines, harnesses and lifting equipment
    • personal protective equipment and other precautions
    • coordination of work activities.

    Resources for Confined Spaces



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