Confined Space Entry Checklist

A valid confined space entry permit has been issued for the exact space, task, personnel and entry period.

The approved permit accurately describes the work scope, hazards, isolations and required controls.

All required authorizations, approvals and signatures have been completed before entry.

A task-specific risk assessment or JSA has been completed and communicated to the entry team.

Simultaneous operations and nearby activities have been reviewed and coordinated.

The confined space is clearly identified and unauthorized entry is prevented.

The entry point and surrounding area are barricaded or otherwise controlled.

Safe access and egress are provided and kept clear throughout the work.

Openings, covers and hatches are secured against unintended movement or closure.

Suitable and safe lighting is provided for entry, work and emergency evacuation.

All connected process lines, equipment and energy sources have been identified.

Required lockout and tagout controls have been applied and independently verified.

Positive isolation such as blanking, blinding or physical disconnection is used where required.

Stored pressure, liquids, gases, heat and other residual energy have been safely released.

Rotating, moving or mechanically driven equipment is immobilized and secured.

Electrical equipment within or connected to the space is isolated or protected as required.

The space has been drained, cleaned, purged or flushed as required.

Hazardous residues, sludge, scale and deposits have been assessed and controlled.

Inlets, outlets, drains and overflow routes that could introduce hazards are controlled.

The gas detector is suitable, functional, bump-tested and within its calibration period.

Atmospheric testing is performed by a trained and authorized person.

The atmosphere has been tested before entry at appropriate levels and locations.

Oxygen concentration is within the site-approved safe range.

Flammable gas or vapor concentration is within the permitted entry limit.

Relevant toxic gases, vapors and contaminants are below the permitted exposure limits.

Gas test results, time, location and tester details are recorded on the permit.

Continuous or periodic atmospheric monitoring is provided as required.

Natural or mechanical ventilation is adequate for the identified hazards.

Ventilation supplies clean air and does not introduce exhaust fumes or contaminants.

Required mechanical ventilation remains operating throughout occupancy.

Ventilation ducting is positioned effectively and does not obstruct access or rescue.

A trained confined space attendant is assigned and remains outside the space.

The attendant has no other duty that interferes with continuous monitoring.

An accurate entry and exit register is maintained for all entrants.

Reliable communication is established between entrants and the attendant.

The attendant understands when to stop work, order evacuation and raise the alarm.

All entrants are trained, authorized and medically fit where required.

Entrants have received a task-specific briefing and understand the hazards and controls.

Required PPE is available, suitable and correctly worn.

Respiratory protection is selected, fit-tested and used where required.

A full-body harness and retrieval connection are used where required by the rescue plan.

Electrical and work equipment are suitable for the classified area and environmental conditions.

Low-voltage, protected or intrinsically safe equipment is used where required.

Tools, cables, hoses and equipment have been inspected and are free from visible defects.

Compressed gas cylinders are kept outside the confined space unless specifically authorized.

Hot-work controls and a separate hot-work permit are in place where applicable.

Chemicals, coatings, cleaning agents and fumes generated by the task have been assessed.

Heat stress, work duration, rest breaks and hydration requirements have been assessed.

A space-specific rescue plan has been prepared and is immediately available.

A competent rescue team is available and can respond within the required time.

Required rescue equipment is positioned, inspected and ready for immediate use.

Non-entry retrieval is provided where practicable and does not create additional risk.

The entry opening and surrounding area allow effective rescue and casualty handling.

The method for raising the alarm and contacting emergency response is tested and understood.

All entrants, attendants, supervisors and rescuers are identified before entry.

Permit conditions, isolations, atmosphere, ventilation and rescue readiness have been rechecked.

The team understands the conditions requiring immediate evacuation or work suspension.

All critical controls are verified and the confined space is ready for authorized entry.