If done incorrectly, entering confined spaces can be dangerous and potentially fatal. As such, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict regulations regarding confined space entry, requiring all employers to inform workers of the risks of entering these areas and to obtain entry permits before entering them. If you want to learn more about confined space entry permit requirements, including who must obtain one and what must be included in your permit application, keep reading!
Why Are Confined Space Entry Permits Required?
There are many situations where a confined space entry permit may be required. First and foremost, several common hazards make confined spaces potentially dangerous places for workers. Confined spaces often contain airborne particles, noxious fumes, or other harmful chemicals or gases. There is also a risk of electrical shock when working in a confined space due to exposed wiring and equipment that pose an electrocution hazard.
When workers must enter a confined space, certain procedures must be followed. These procedures include how to prepare for entering and exiting a confined space, as well as how workers should enter and exit. In addition, many confined spaces require specialized equipment for entry or exit to occur safely. Finally, a permit is required because all workers involved with an entry or exit procedure must be trained on it and receive instructions on what to do if anything goes wrong during the procedure.
A confined space entry permit is a document that contains essential information on how entry and exit should occur, as well as any specific requirements that may apply. It will also include where a copy of the confined space entry procedure is located so that workers can review it before entering or exiting.
Obtaining a confined space entry permit is a two-step process. The first step involves determining whether or not entry is required. For an entry permit to be required, certain conditions must be met, including that there is no other means of entering or exiting, and only trained workers may enter.
What Is Required On A Confined Space Entry Permit?
A confined space entry permit will include essential information about how workers should proceed when entering or exiting a confined space. These procedures typically include special safety precautions such as wearing personal protective equipment like hard hats, goggles, and gloves. There may also be instructions about how to maintain proper ventilation inside the confined space.
Other instructions might include how workers should dress for the job (safety vests or reflective clothing) and where they can find additional resources, such as copies of confined space entry permits or confined space evacuation plans.
What Are Confined Space Entry Permit Requirements
Each confined space entry permit must contain specific information. Below are the mandatory elements that must be included in the permit:
1. Identification of the Permit Space
The permit must identify the exact location of the confined space. This could include a tank number, pit designation, or area description.
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Purpose: Helps prevent entry into the wrong space.
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Example: “Entry into Tank B-14 for internal inspection.”
2. Purpose of Entry
Clearly state the reason for the entry, such as maintenance, cleaning, or inspection.
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Why It Matters: Identifies specific tasks and associated hazards.
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Example: “Confined space entry for welding repair on interior seams.”
3. Date and Authorized Duration
Specify the date of entry and the maximum period the permit is valid for.
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Why It Matters: Time-sensitive permits prevent long-duration exposure to hazards.
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OSHA Requirement: Must include expiration time/date.
4. Names of Authorized Entrants
List all workers who are authorized to enter the space.
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Reason: Ensures only trained personnel are involved.
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Verification: A supervisor can confirm each entrant is qualified and current on training.
5. Names of Attendants
Identify the person(s) assigned to remain outside the space to monitor the entry.
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Role of Attendants: Monitor activities, communicate with entrants, and initiate rescue if necessary.
6. Name and Signature of Entry Supervisor
The supervisor authorizing the entry must sign the permit.
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Tip: Demonstrates accountability and supervisory verification.
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Requirement: Confirms pre-entry checks and hazard controls are completed.
7. Hazards of the Space to Be Entered
List all known or potential hazards such as:
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Toxic gases (e.g., hydrogen sulfide)
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Oxygen deficiency/enrichment
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Flammable vapors
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Engulfment risks
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Mechanical hazards
Use gas detectors and physical inspections to identify these.
8. Measures to Isolate and Control Hazards
Document the specific measures used to eliminate or control hazards, including:
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Lockout/tagout (LOTO)
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Ventilation (forced or natural)
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Purging or inerting
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Blanking or blinding pipes
“Isolation of the permit space shall be verified prior to entry.”
— OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146(d)(3)
9. Acceptable Entry Conditions
List acceptable air quality levels and other safety conditions:
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Oxygen: 19.5%–23.5%
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Flammable gases: <10% of LEL
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Toxic gases: Below OSHA PEL or TLV
These must be verified and documented before and during the entry.
10. Test Results and Time of Testing
Provide real-time air monitoring results:
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Include initial and periodic test results
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Record date, time, and test locations
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Identify the equipment used
Tip: Use a calibrated, multi-gas detector and record serial number for traceability.
11. Rescue and Emergency Services Contact Information
Specify how rescue will be performed if necessary:
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On-site rescue team?
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Local emergency services?
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Include contact numbers and estimated response times.
“Rescue services must be available and trained in entry rescue operations.”
— OSHA 1910.146(k)
12. Communication Procedures
Outline methods of communication between entrants and attendants:
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Radios
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Hand signals
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Tether pulls
Clear communication is vital for hazard detection and emergency response.
13. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements
Indicate all required PPE such as:
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Respirators
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Fall protection
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Chemical-resistant suits
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Gloves, helmets, and eyewear
PPE should be selected based on hazard assessment results.
14. Special Equipment Needed
Specify tools and equipment for safe entry:
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Tripods or winches
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Intrinsically safe lighting
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Non-sparking tools
Include any calibration or pre-use inspection requirements.
15. Additional Permits Needed
Some tasks may require secondary permits such as:
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Hot Work Permit
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Electrical Isolation Permit
Each must be approved and referenced in the main entry permit.
Permit Retention and Cancellation
Once the job is complete:
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The entry supervisor must cancel the permit.
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Permits must be retained for at least one year.
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Review cancelled permits during annual confined space program reviews.
“Canceled entry permits shall be retained for at least one year to facilitate the review of the permit space program.”
— OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146(f)(6)
Why Following These Requirements Matters
Failing to comply with permit requirements can result in:
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Fatal accidents due to unrecognized hazards
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Legal penalties and OSHA citations
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Delayed rescue efforts
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Damage to the company’s reputation
Adhering to these confined space entry permit requirements is not only a regulatory obligation but a lifesaving protocol that protects workers from serious harm.
READ: OSHA Confined Space Air Monitoring Requirements: What You Need to Know
How To Avoid Problems With Unsafe Spaces
When working in or around a confined space, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards. Before entering a confined space, you need to determine what makes a confined space permit required. Once you have determined that a confined space permit is needed, follow the confined space requirements outlined by your company. By being aware of the potential hazards and following the proper procedures, you can help avoid problems with unsafe spaces.
Most confined space hazards are preventable by implementing good practices. The best practice is always to avoid entering a confined space whenever possible. Consider all other options first, such as sending in an unmanned robot, lowering instruments or supplies, or accessing it from above. If you have determined that there is no way around entering a confined space, make sure your entry doesn’t pose any additional risks in unsafe spaces.
The regulations around confined space permits and entry are different for each country, state, or province. It’s always a good idea to consult your governing body when determining whether or not a permit is required, as well as what procedures you need to follow. The first step is always ensuring that you are working in a safe environment with no potential hazards. If you work in an area that has known hazards, there may be additional regulations imposed on your work environment.
Unsafe confined spaces can be encountered in any industry, from mining to construction and everything in between. Each industry has its own set of regulations, permits, and procedures that must be followed. Whether you are working with a confined space permit or just avoiding unsafe spaces, being aware of all potential hazards is vital for safe work practices. Although it is not possible to eliminate all risks associated with entering a confined space, following correct procedures will help you prevent most hazards.
If you are working with a confined space permit, make sure that all procedures and regulations are followed. If you find yourself in an unsafe space, your safety equipment is designed to protect you from serious injuries or even death. There may be additional hazards that present themselves when you enter a confined space, but always follow safe practices and check your equipment before entering any area. Being aware of potential hazards is vital for both preventing accidents and staying safe while at work.
Checklist For Safe Entries
Here are some points we should consider in the confined space entry;
1. Make sure you have the proper permits and paperwork in order before beginning work.
2. Inspect the area for any potential hazards, and make sure it is well-ventilated.
3. Wear the proper safety gear, including a hard hat, goggles, and a respirator mask.
4. Have a partner with you at all times, and stay in communication with them while working.
5. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
6. Try not to work alone, and be aware of all possible hazards.
7. Never hesitate to stop work if you feel unwell or otherwise unsafe. The well-being of your workers comes first.
8. Never take shortcuts in safety, and make sure all your documentation is up-to-date.
9. Be aware of your surroundings, and make sure everyone has a way out in case of an emergency.
10. Take breaks regularly, and never stay in a confined space for longer than 90 minutes at a time. If you feel faint or ill, try to get out as soon as possible.
Follow these checklist points and other important points depending on the type of confined space and the hazards present; these will help ensure that working in a confined space is safe.
Ref – Confined space checklist
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