Confined Space Entry Permits

Understanding the Minimum Requirements for a Confined Space Entry Permit in Victoria

According to the Victorian OHS Regulations, employers must not allow an employee to enter a confined space unless an entry permit has been issued. The key requirements under Regulation 63 include:

  1. An employer must issue a confined space entry permit before any employee enters the confined space.
  2. Each permit applies to only one confined space but may permit multiple employees to enter that space.
  3. The confined space entry permit must include:
    • The specific confined space to which the permit applies.
    • The risk control measures that must be followed.
    • The names of the employees permitted to enter.
    • The name of any person assigned to perform functions under Regulation 65 (such as a standby person or supervisor).
    • The operational period of the permit.

Regulation 64 – Employer Responsibility to Keep Entry Permits

Employers are required to retain confined space entry permits for documentation and legal compliance.

  1. Retention Period:
    • The employer must keep the entry permit until the work is completed.
    • If a notifiable incident occurs, the permit must be kept for at least 2 years from the date of the incident.

Minimum Requirements of a Confined Space Entry Permit

The Confined Space Entry Permit must outline key safety requirements and risk controls before entry can occur. The minimum requirements include:

  • The specific confined space to which the permit applies.
  • The risk control measures that must be followed.
  • The names of the employees permitted to enter.
  • The name of any person assigned to perform functions under Regulation 65 (such as a standby person).
  • The operational period of the permit.

Other Common Inclusions on a Confined Space Entry Permit

In addition to the minimum requirements, it is common for permits to also include:

  • The emergency procedure for rescuing a worker from the confined space and providing first aid both inside the space and once rescued. This procedure must be rehearsed. Emergency procedures should be tailored to the specific risks associated with the confined space, and all personnel should be familiar with the steps to follow in case of an incident. The presence of a designated rescue team or standby personnel is often required to ensure that assistance can be provided immediately if needed.
  • A sign-in and sign-out section to track who is entering and exiting the space, in accordance with Regulations 66, 67, and 68. This log helps maintain an accurate record of personnel movements and ensures that all workers are accounted for at all times. A clear sign-in/sign-out system is crucial, particularly in the event of an emergency where knowing who is inside the confined space can save valuable time during a rescue.
  • Atmospheric testing results, which are commonly listed on the entry permit. Many permits contain a table outlining oxygen levels, flammability, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide concentrations. It is crucial to ensure that testing is conducted for all relevant substances that may be present in the confined space. Regular atmospheric testing is essential to identify hazardous conditions before and during entry. Under Regulation 168, records of atmospheric monitoring must be readily available to employees and retained for 30 years. These records serve as long-term documentation of environmental conditions and are critical for workplace safety and compliance.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, detailing the necessary gear that workers must wear while inside the confined space. This may include respirators, harnesses, gloves, and protective clothing, depending on the hazards present.
  • Communication protocols, specifying how workers inside the confined space will stay in contact with the standby person or rescue team. This may involve two-way radios, hand signals, or other reliable methods of communication to ensure immediate response in case of an emergency.
  • Permit renewal and revalidation procedures, ensuring that if work extends beyond the permit’s operational period, a reassessment is conducted, and a new permit is issued if necessary. This prevents outdated risk assessments from putting workers at risk.

Compliance with WorkSafe Victoria Guidelines

To ensure compliance with WorkSafe Victoria guidelines, businesses must:

  • Implement confined space training for all workers involved.
  • Conduct regular audits to ensure safe entry practices are followed.
  • Maintain records of confined space permits for auditing and legal purposes.

Final Thoughts

A Confined Space Entry Permit is a critical safety document that ensures all necessary precautions are taken before workers enter a hazardous environment. Under Victorian OHS Regulations, the permit must include risk identification, control measures, authorized personnel, and an operational period.

Employers and workers must adhere to these requirements to prevent serious incidents and fatalities in confined spaces. By following proper permit procedures and WorkSafe Victoria guidelines, businesses can create a safer working environment and ensure legal compliance in confined space operations.