Brochure - 002

November 2000

A Quick Guide to Working Safely in Confined Spaces

(For Workers)
Confined spaces exist in many settings. A What must you do?
confined space is any area:
Before you enter a confined space you
not intended or designed primarily as a must:
place of work; and
obtain an entry permit from your
with restricted entry and exit; and employer
at atmospheric pressure; and test for a safe oxygen level
where the potential for engulfment, test for toxic gases, vapours or fumes
inadequate ventilation, a contaminated
atmosphere or oxygen deficient test for flammable gases or vapours
atmosphere may exist. ventilate and clean
isolate the confined space
Confined spaces include: ensure a stand-by person is present
Access Holes wear appropriate personal protective
equipment if needed.
Pipes
Silos
Tunnels Emergency situations
Sewers Do not enter a confined space to rescue a
worker in an emergency situation unless
Cold Storage Rooms you are prepared.
Trenches Always follow planned rescue and first aid
procedures and use appropriate
equipment.
Hazards of confined spaces
The primary hazards are:
Training for workers
lack of oxygen
If you carry out work in a confined space,
toxic gases, vapours or fumes your employer must give you training on:
flammable gases, vapours or fumes the hazards of confined spaces
engulfment risk assessment procedures
mechanical equipment risk control measures
There may be one or more hazards emergency procedures
present in a confined space.
selection, use, fit and maintenance of
personal protective equipment.

Brochure Division Workplace Health & Safety BRO002

A Quick Guide to Working Safely in Confined Spaces (for workers) November 2000
Page 1 of 2
Safety tips Stay alert at all times - do not take your
safety or granted.
Never enter a confined space without
an entry permit. Concentrate on the job you are doing.
Enter the confined space safely at all Handle all equipment safely.
times. Have emergency equipment available
Follow all instructions and safety eg. fire extinguisher, resuscitation
procedures. equipment
Test for hazards - know how to use the
equipment and interpret the results. Confined spaces legislation
Leave immediately if you experience Refer to Workplace Health and Safety
dizziness, light-headedness or Regulation 1997 (Part 15 Confined
difficulties. Spaces).
Report any hazardous conditions or
injuries.

Brochure Division Workplace Health & Safety BRO002

A Quick Guide to Working Safely in Confined Spaces (for workers) November 2000
Page 2 of 2