Frequently Asked Questions

A confined space is defined as a space that meets the following criteria:

• is completely or partially enclosed
• is not designed or intended for continuous human occupancy
• has restricted or limited access to an entryway or exit or has a configuration that can complicate the implementation of first aid, evacuation procedures, rescue systems, or other emergency response activities

Examples of such spaces include:

• boilers
• ventilation systems
• sewers
• septic tanks
• utility vaults
• shafts
• tunnels
• ducts
• maintenance holes
• pipelines
• process vessels
• silos
• trenches

While the hazards of a confined space are similar to that of a regular workspace, a confined space makes these hazards even more dangerous. These hazards include:

• Atmospheric Hazards – This includes the oxygen deficiency or enrichment and the presence of toxic gases and asphyxiants that can cause breathing problems, fatigue, nausea, convulsions, coma, and death. 
• Barrier Failure – This can lead to a flood or the release of free-flowing liquid or solid.
• Biological Hazards – These include pathogens (like viruses and bacteria from gunk and fecal matter), fungi, and moulds.
• Chemical Exposures – This includes the ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation of chemicals.
• Engulfment Hazard – This can result from the shifting or caving in of bulk substances and materials leading to asphyxiation.
• Fire Hazards – This includes the presence of explosives and flammable materials in the atmosphere which would result in a fire or explosion if ignited.
• Physical Hazards – This includes noise, extreme temperatures, insufficient lighting, vibration, electrical currents, and radiation.
• Other Safety Hazards – This includes slip and fall hazards, entanglement hazards, structural hazards, and being hit by moving parts of equipment.

• investigate the workplace to pinpoint all confined spaces
• develop and keep a record of the confined spaces and make these accessible to those who will be entering said spaces
• designate a qualified person to ascertain whether the confined space is considered a hazardous confined space
• place visible identifying signs at the entrance of each confined space while informing personnel that these areas are restricted without the permission of the employer
• oversee employees entering a hazardous confined space
• keep records of employees who are trained on emergency procedures and obligations while working in confined spaces

• A detailed description of the roles and responsibilities of each person involved
• Information on methods of identifying confined spaces
• The identification and evaluation of all potential hazards 
• A protocol for conducting atmospheric testing and monitoring
• A procedure to eliminate or manage identified hazards.
• Written work policies
• A training program for employees entering the confined spaces
• An entry permit system tracking each entry into a confined space
• Establishment of an emergency plan that details the training and equipment needed in the event of an unforeseen scenario
• Emergency response protocols
• Report and investigate scenarios related to work in confined spaces
• Record and documentation control
• Program review annually (or whenever circumstances change) to determine program weaknesses and make necessary changes

The training you need depends on the work in question and what roles and skills are needed for the job. When performing confined space work, there are four primary roles which require specific skills. These include:

• Authorized Entrant – This is an employee who has employer authorization to enter a confined space. Skills must include the understanding and recognition of hazard exposure, tools and equipment handling, and proper PPE use.
• Rescue Service – This person’s role is to implement rescue operations in confined spaces. Skills must include proficiency with rescue-related equipment, proper PPE use, patient handling, and medical treatment.
• Attendant – This person is stationed outside the confined space and is responsible for monitoring the authorized entrants and performing their designated duties. Skills must include hazard detection, knowledge of rescue procedures and requirements, proper PPE use, incident notification, and protective equipment set up and use.
• Entry Supervisor – This person’s role is to determine whether acceptable entry conditions are met at a confined space, to authorize and oversee entry operations, and to abort entry if necessary. Skills must include hazard assessment, protocol development, PPE selection, and rule enforcement.

Acquire training that focuses on teaching the necessary skills and the use of specific field equipment.