Confined Spaces Code of Practice PDF

Hazards outside the confined space Where the confined space has a vertical opening, there is a risk that people could fall in. Traffic hazards are a concern where confined space entrances or exits are located on footpaths or roads. There is the potential for workers entering or exiting the space to...

Hazards outside the confined space Where the confined space has a vertical opening, there is a risk that people could fall in. Traffic hazards are a concern where confined space entrances or exits are located on footpaths or roads. There is the potential for workers entering or exiting the space to be struck and injured by vehicle traffic. Work done outside the space, but near openings to it, can contaminate the atmosphere inside the space. A common example is the exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine. There may also be potential for fire or explosion where hot work is done in areas next to confined spaces that contain flammable atmospheres. Additional physiological and psychological demands Working in a confined space may impose additional physiological and psychological demands over and above those encountered in a normal working environment. Consideration should be given to a worker’s: − − − physical ability ability to work in a restrictive space (for example claustrophobia), and ability to wear the PPE required to do the work (for example respirators). 3.4. Assessing the risks A risk assessment involves considering what could happen if someone is exposed to a hazard and the likelihood of it happening. A risk assessment can help you determine: − − − − how severe a risk is whether any existing control measures are effective what action you should take to control the risk, and how urgently the action needs to be taken. Hazards have the potential to cause different types and severities of harm, ranging from minor discomfort to a serious injury or death. Many hazards and their associated risks are well known and have well established and accepted control measures. In these situations, the second step in the process outlined in section 1.3 of this Code (to formally assess the risk) is not required. If after identifying a hazard you already know the risk and how to control it effectively, you may simply implement the controls. In some circumstances, a risk assessment will assist to: − − − − identify which workers are at risk of exposure determine what sources and processes are causing the risk identify if and what kind of control measures should be implemented, and check the effectiveness of existing control measures. WHS Regulation clause 66 Confined spaces – Managing risks to health and safety WHS Regulation clause 77 Confined spaces – Confined space entry permit and risk assessment must be kept Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 21 of 54 As a PCBU, you must ensure a competent person conducts a risk assessment to assess health and safety risks associated with the identified hazards of the confined space. The risk assessment for a confined space must be undertaken by a competent person and be recorded in writing. The risk assessment must be reviewed and revised by a competent person whenever any risks change. A copy must be kept until at least 28 days after the work to which it relates is completed, or if a notifiable incident occurs in connection with the work to which the assessment relates, for at least two years after the incident occurs. A copy of the risk assessment must be available to any relevant worker on request. To manage risk and ensure a risk assessment is carried out by a competent person, you must take into account all relevant matters, including: − − − − − whether the work can be carried out without the need to enter the confined space the nature of the confined space if the hazard is associated with the concentration of oxygen or the concentration of airborne contaminants in the confined space—any change that may occur in that concentration the work required to be carried out in the confined space, the range of methods by which the work can be carried out and the proposed method of working, and the type of emergency procedures, including rescue procedures, required. When undertaking a risk assessment to determine the risks requiring control, the following factors should be considered: − − − − − − the risk of engulfment of a person the number of persons occupying the space the soundness and security of the overall structure and the need for lighting and visibility the identity and nature of the substances last contained in the confined space any risk control measures needed to bring the confined space to atmospheric pressure the number of persons required outside the space:    − − − − − − risks associated with other hazards, such as noise or electricity arrangements for emergency response, for example first aid and resuscitation the physiological and psychological demands of the task and the competency of persons involved in the tasks or emergency response duties the adequate instruction of persons in any required procedure, particularly those that are unusual or non-typical, including the use and limitations of any PPE and other equipment to be used the availability and adequacy of appropriate PPE and emergency equipment for all persons likely to enter the confined space the need for additional risk control measures, including:      − to maintain equipment essential for the task being undertaken within the confined space to provide continuous communication with the persons within the confined space, and to properly initiate emergency response procedures. prohibiting hot work in adjacent areas prohibiting smoking and naked flames within the confined space and adjacent areas avoiding contamination of breathing air from operations or sources outside the confined space, for example from the exhaust of an internal combustion engine prohibiting movement of equipment in adjacent areas, for example forklifts prohibiting spark-generating equipment, clothing and footwear. whether purging or cleaning in the confined space is necessary Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 22 of 54 − − whether hot work is necessary, and conditions that could impede entry and exit or the conduct of the tasks in the confined space, for example plant layout, dimensions, manual handling and ergonomic aspects of the task. Further guidance on the risk management process and the hierarchy of control measures is available in the Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks. Atmospheric testing and monitoring Testing and monitoring the atmosphere in a confined space are routine parts of determining appropriate control measures for confined spaces. WHS Regulation clause 50 Monitoring airborne contaminant levels WHS Regulation clause 71 Confined spaces—Specific control—atmosphere WHS Regulation clause 72 Confined spaces—Specific control—flammable gases and vapours As a PCBU, you must ensure that air monitoring is carried out to determine the airborne concentration of a substance or mixture at the workplace to which an exposure standard applies if: − − the person is not certain on reasonable grounds whether or not the airborne concentration of the substance or mixture exceeds the relevant exposure standard, or monitoring is necessary to determine whether there is a risk to health. Any air monitoring in a confined space should be carried out by a competent person using a suitable, correctly calibrated gas detector. You must ensure that while work is being carried out in a confined space to test the atmosphere for: − − − oxygen content airborne concentration of flammable contaminants, and airborne concentration of potentially harmful contaminants (for example hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide). A person’s senses should never be used to determine if the air in a confined space is safe. Many toxic or flammable gases and unsafe oxygen levels cannot be detected using one’s senses. Initial testing should be done from outside the confined space by inserting a sample probe and/or portable gas detection device at appropriately selected access holes, nozzles and openings. Because contaminants can settle at different levels, each part of the confined space should be tested—side to side and top to bottom (see Figure 2). For example, some gases (such as hydrogen sulphide) are heavier than air and in unventilated areas will settle to the bottom of the space, while other gases (such as methane) are lighter than air and will collect at the top of the space. Testing should be carried out on a sufficient number of points to accurately reflect areas of the space that are likely to be accessed. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 23 of 54 Figure 2 Atmospheric testing of remote regions and different levels within the confined space Lighter gases may be vented into the breathing zone of the person conducting the tests. Some gases may be dissolved in liquids and released when the liquid is disturbed or a crust over the liquid is broken, so it may be necessary to agitate liquids before monitoring. If it is necessary to enter the space to test remote regions away from entrances or access holes, air-supplied respiratory equipment should be worn and the entry must be undertaken in accordance with the WHS Regulation using a confined space entry permit. Re-testing and continuous monitoring of the air may be necessary if the risk assessment indicates that conditions may change due to the work being done or the disturbance of hazardous material in the confined space. Generic risk assessment A single (or generic) risk assessment may be carried out for a class of confined spaces in a number of different work areas or workplaces where the confined spaces are the same. This will only be appropriate if all of the hazards, tasks and circumstances covered by the risk assessment are the same. A risk assessment must be carried out on individual confined spaces if the hazards, tasks or circumstances are different and a worker may be exposed to greater, additional or different risks. A confined space entry permit may be used as a record of the risk assessment. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 24 of 54 4. Controlling the risks Hierarchy of control measures The WHS Regulation requires duty holders to work through the hierarchy of control measures when managing certain risks; however, it can be applied to any risk. The hierarchy ranks control measures from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest. Further guidance on the risk management process and the hierarchy of control measures is in the Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks. As a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), you should, as far as is reasonably practicable, ensure health and safety by taking into account and weighing up all relevant matters to control risk. For example putting in place control measures when confined space entry is a relatively infrequent activity for most workplaces. Eliminating the risk You must always aim to eliminate the risk, for example by eliminating the need to enter a confined space. If eliminating the hazards and associated risks is not reasonably practicable, you must minimise the risk by one or more of the following: − − − Substitution—minimise the risk by substituting or replacing a hazard or hazardous work practice with something that gives rise to a lesser risk. For example, changing work methods to minimise time inside the confined space, therefore reducing likelihood of heat stress. Isolation—minimise the risk by isolating or separating the hazard or hazardous work practice from any person exposed to it, for example by isolating moving or electric parts. Engineering controls—engineering controls are physical control measures to minimise risk, for example forced extraction ventilation for large spaces, tanks, vessels. If risk remains, it must be minimised by implementing administrative controls, so far as is reasonably practicable. For example, providing training relevant to working in confined spaces. Any remaining risk must be minimised with suitable personal protective equipment (PPE). For example, respiratory protective equipment when oxygen levels are outside the safe range. Administrative control measures and PPE do not control the hazard at the source. They rely on human behaviour and supervision and used on their own tend to be the least effective in minimising risks. The WHS Regulation requires a PCBU to consider certain relevant matters when managing risks, which will help to inform decisions about the most effective and appropriate risk control measures in the circumstances. WHS Regulation clause 66 Confined spaces—Managing risks to health and safety In managing risks associated with a confined space, such risks associated with working in, or in the vicinity of the confined space, all relevant matters must be considered, including: − whether the work can be carried out without the need to enter the confined space Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 25 of 54 − − − − the nature of the confined space if the hazard is associated with any airborne contaminant or unsafe level of oxygen the work to be carried out in the confined space, the range of methods by which the work can be carried out, and the proposed method of working, and the type of emergency procedures, including rescue procedures, required. 4.1. Eliminate the need to enter a confined space Risks associated with work in a confined space must be eliminated so far as is reasonably practicable, and therefore the first question is: can the work be carried out without entering the confined space? Work could be carried out from outside the confined space, for example by: − − − − installing fixed or temporary cleaning devices, for example spray balls using highpressure hoses inserted through an access hatch to clean the inside of a tank using remote cameras or a mirror attached to a probe for internal inspection of vessels using remotely operated rotating flail devices, vibrators or air purgers to clear blockages in silos, and using a hook, long-handled clasp or magnet on a string to retrieve an object dropped into a confined space. 4.2. Minimise the risks If entering a confined space cannot be avoided, then a safe system for working inside the space must be implemented. A risk assessment carried out by a competent person will help determine what controls are needed to minimise any risk associated with work in the confined space. You must take all relevant matters into account when managing the risks associated with working in a confined space and ensure a risk assessment is conducted which includes the following considerations. The nature of the space The nature of a confined space may contribute to the risks associated with it, for example: − − − whether the number, size and location of entrances and exits may make the rapid exit and rescue of workers from the space difficult the temperature of the space may cause heat stress, and lack of adequate lighting may mean poor visibility. The concentration of oxygen or airborne contaminants The level of oxygen and airborne contaminants is a significant contributor to the risk of working in a confined space. The WHS Regulation contains specific risk control measures for managing these risks, such as: − − the atmosphere of the confined space must have a safe level of oxygen, or if this is not reasonably practicable, any worker carrying out work in a space with an oxygen level less than 19.5 per cent by volume must be provided with air supplied respiratory equipment purging or ventilation of any contaminant in the atmosphere of the space must be carried out, so far as is reasonably practicable. The gas mixture used for ventilation or purging must not have an oxygen concentration exceeding 21 per cent by volume, and Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 26 of 54 − air monitoring must be carried out to determine the airborne concentration of a substance or mixture to which an exposure standard applies if it is not certain on reasonable grounds whether the concentration exceeds the standard or if monitoring is necessary to determine if there is a risk to health. The work and work method Consideration must be given to whether the proposed work or work process will introduce any new hazards or contribute to the risks of working in the confined space. The WHS Regulation sets out some specific control measures for risks associated with work in confined spaces in certain circumstances: − − − − ignition sources must not be introduced into a space if there is a possibility of fire or explosion while work is being carried out, the concentration of flammable gas, vapour or mist must be less than five per cent of its lower explosive limit (LEL), so far as is reasonably practicable. At LEL of between five per cent and 10 per cent, the worker must be removed unless a gas detector is used, and the worker must be immediately removed if the LEL is equal to or greater than 10 per cent risks associated with the introduction of any substance or condition into the space from plant or services connected to the space must be eliminated so far as is reasonably practicable, and ensure a person does not enter a confined space to carry out work unless there is a system of work that includes communication with the worker from outside the space and monitoring of conditions within the space by a stand-by person in the vicinity of the space and, if practicable, observing the work being carried out. Work processes should: − − − minimise the release of harmful airborne contaminants into the space reduce the time spent in the space or the number of people that have to enter the space, and eliminate the risk of engulfment. Consider any risks associated with the use of PPE in a confined space. Using PPE may introduce new risks for those working in the space, for example the weight or discomfort of protective clothing and hearing protection. Emergency procedures When things go wrong in a confined space, people may be exposed to serious and immediate danger. Effective arrangements for raising the alarm and carrying out rescue operations in an emergency are essential (refer to Chapter 5 of this Code). 4.3. Entry permits A confined space entry permit provides a formal check to ensure all elements of a safe system of work are in place before people are allowed to enter the confined space. It also provides a means of communication between site management, supervisors and those carrying out the work and ensures that the PCBU has checked and authorised the entry to the confined space and it is safe to proceed. WHS Regulation clause 65 Entry into confined space must comply with this Division Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 27 of 54 WHS Regulation clause 67 Confined space entry permit WHS Regulation clause 77 Confined space entry permit and risk assessment must be kept A PCBU must not allow or direct a worker to enter a confined space to carry out work unless the worker has been issued a confined space entry permit for the work. The permit must be completed in writing by a competent person and: − − − − specify the confined space to which the permit relates record the names of persons permitted to enter the confined space and the period of time that the work in the space will be carried out set out risk control measures based on the risk assessment and include control measures for safe entry and details about the systems of work, and contain space for an acknowledgement that work in the confined space has been completed and all persons have left the space. A copy of the permit must be kept at least until the work is completed or, if a notifiable incident occurs, for at least two years after the confined space work to which the permit relates is completed. A competent person is one who has acquired through training, qualification or experience the knowledge and skills to carry out the task. A confined space entry permit must be issued for each time work is to be carried out in a confined space. Each permit only applies to one confined space and allows one or more workers to enter that space. A competent person who directs and supervises the work should be nominated and authorised to complete the permit on behalf of the business or undertaking. A confined space entry permit is also required when a person enters a confined space to conduct the initial hazard identification or risk assessment. The permit may need to be revised after the risk assessment is completed. The confined space entry permit must list the information set out in Table 2. Table 2 Requirements of a confined space entry permit Requirements Confined space to which the permit relates − − The permit form should be designed and completed in such a way as to enable clear identification and recording of the space that each permit applies to. A single permit can be used for multiple entries into a space and can be used where there is more than one access point into a single space. Name of any worker permitted to enter the space − Full name of each worker Period of time during which work in the space will be carried out − A permit may be required for varying periods of time depending on the time required to complete the work being carried out in a confined space. The permit must be re-validated if the person with direct management or control of work in the space changes; a break in work continuity occurs; changes are made to the work that introduce hazards not addressed by the current permit; or new control measures are needed. Confined spaces Code of Practice − Page 28 of 54 Requirements Measures to control the risk − − − − List the control measures that must be implemented before work commences, for example the isolation of plant and services, purging, ventilation, atmospheric testing, cleaning and signage. List the control measures that must be implemented or continued while work is being done in the space, for example ventilation, continuous monitoring, respiratory protective equipment and PPE. List any equipment to be taken into the confined space, and any exclusions such as ignition sources. List any specialist emergency rescue equipment required. The entry permit must be used as a written record that all workers have exited the confined space on completion of the work. It should be displayed in a prominent place to facilitate signing and clearance. Workers carrying out work in confined spaces must be provided with suitable and adequate information, training and instruction about the contents of the confined space entry permit in a way that is readily understandable. The information on the entry permit may be used as a suitable record of the risk assessment that has been carried out. An example of an entry permit is provided at Appendix B. 4.4. Isolation All potentially hazardous plant and services should be isolated prior to any person entering the confined space. Refer to AS 2865–2009: Confined spaces for further information on isolation requirements. Isolate to prevent the: − − − − − introduction of hazardous contaminants or conditions through piping, ducts, vents, drains, conveyors, service pipes and fire protection equipment activation or energising of machinery in the confined space activation of plant or services outside the confined space that could adversely affect the space (for example heating or refrigerating methods) release of any stored or potential energy in plant, and inadvertent use of electrical equipment. Pipe work If liquids, gases or vapours could enter the confined space, pipe work should be physically isolated. Isolation measures, for example physically locking, tagging, closing and blanking (see Figure 3), should be supervised or checked at each isolation point. Isolation measures should be supported by systems to ensure that the isolation measures are not removed until all work is complete and all workers have left the space. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 29 of 54 Figure 3 Example of tag and lockout with padlocks Methods of isolation from materials, contaminants or conditions include isolating in accordance with one of the methods described below or by an alternative method ensuring at least an equivalent level of safety: − Removing a valve, spool piece or expansion joint in piping leading to the confined space (as close as practicable to the space) and blanking or capping the open end of the piping (see Figure 4). The blank or cap should be tagged to indicate its purpose. Blanks or caps should be made of a material that is compatible with the liquid, vapour or gas with which they are in contact. The material should also have sufficient strength to withstand the maximum operating pressure, for example surges, which can build up in the piping. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 30 of 54 Figure 4 Open end of pipe capped with the nearest valve closed, locked and tagged − Inserting a suitable full-pressure spade or blank in piping between the flanges as close as practicable to the confined space (see Figure 5). The full-pressure spade or blank should be tagged to indicate its purpose. Figure 5 Insertion of full pressure spade or blank Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 31 of 54 − Closing, locking and tagging at least two valves in the piping leading to the confined space (see Figure 6). A drain or vent valve between the two closed valves should be locked open to atmosphere as part of this method. Figure 6 Closing, locking and tagging at least two valves Moving parts and stored energy Before entry is permitted to any confined space that can move, or in which agitators, fans or other moving parts that may pose a risk to workers are present, the possibility of movement should be eliminated. Equipment or devices with stored energy, including hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, chemical, mechanical, thermal or other types of energy, should be reduced to a zero energy condition so that no energy is left in devices and systems that could cause injury or illness. If the confined space has agitators, blades and other moving equipment, consider chocking, wedging, chaining or removing these parts. Alternatively de-energise the equipment, lockout and tag out machinery, mixers, agitators and other equipment containing moving parts in the confined space. This may require additional isolation, blocking or de-energising of the machinery itself to guard against the release of stored energy. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 32 of 54 Using a lock When a lock is used, the key should be kept in the possession of the person placing the lock. Spare keys should not be accessible except in emergencies. The tag should indicate that a person is in the confined space and that such isolation should not be removed until all people have left the confined space. Examples where this procedure may be used include: − − an open circuit breaker or open isolating switch supplying electrical power to equipment with hazardous moving parts, and where a power source cannot be controlled readily or effectively, requiring a belt or other mechanical linkage to be disconnected and tagged. 4.5. Atmosphere As a PCBU, you must eliminate or minimise risks associated with the atmosphere in a confined space, so far as is reasonably practicable. A safe atmosphere in a confined space is one that: − − − has a safe oxygen level is free of airborne contaminants or any airborne contaminants are in concentrations below their allowable exposure standard (if any), and any flammable gas, vapour or mist in the atmosphere is at concentrations below 5 per cent of its lower explosive level (LEL). A safe atmosphere can be achieved within the confined space using methods such as cleaning, purging and ventilation. WHS Regulation clause 71(1)(b) Specific control—flammable gases and vapours The WHS Regulation prohibits pure oxygen or gas mixtures with oxygen in a concentration greater than 21 per cent by volume being used for purging or ventilating a confined space because of the risk of increased flammability. Consideration should be given to engaging the services of a specialist in ventilation or a hygienist. Purging Purging is the method used to displace any contaminant from a confined space. Purging is usually done using an inert gas, such as nitrogen, to clear flammable gases or vapours before work in the confined space begins. Purging must be carried out, so far as is reasonably practicable, where a risk assessment identifies the potential for the confined space to contain an unacceptable level of contaminants. After purging, the confined space should be adequately ventilated with sufficient fresh air to ensure that oxygen has returned to a normal level of 21 per cent. Purging should be done in a way that ensures any contaminants removed from the confined space are expelled to a location where they present no further risk. Atmospheric testing should be carried out before entry to check that the purging and ventilation have been effective. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 33 of 54 When flammable contaminants are to be purged, purging and ventilation equipment designed for use in hazardous areas must be used. A hazardous area is an area in which an explosive atmosphere is present, or may be expected to be present, in quantities that require special precautions during the construction, installation and use of potential ignition sources. Ventilation Ventilation of a confined space with fresh air by natural, forced or mechanical means may be necessary to establish and maintain a safe atmosphere and temperature for as long as anyone is in the confined space. If the confined space has sufficient openings then natural ventilation may be adequate, but in most cases mechanical ventilation is likely to be needed. Consideration should also be given to where the fresh air is drawn from and where the exhaust air is finally vented to, so that the fresh air is not contaminated either by exhaust air or by other pollutants, and the exhaust air does not cause other risks. Mechanical ventilation may be either local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or dilution ventilation. LEV is effective where the source of contaminant generation is localised, the extraction point can be located close to the source, and adequate make-up air is available (for example in the capture or extraction of welding fumes). Where dilution ventilation is used, air needs to be introduced in a way that will ensure effective circulation throughout the confined space, taking account of the configuration of the space, the position of the openings and the properties of the contaminants. The source point of the air must be such that the air is fresh, breathable and free of contaminants such as gases arising from the operation of plant and equipment, for example combustible engines. During operations likely to generate contaminants, mechanical ventilation equipment may not be adequate or sufficiently reliable to maintain contaminants at acceptable levels or to ensure a safe oxygen level. Where mechanical ventilation equipment is likely to be necessary to maintain acceptable contaminant levels in a confined space, the equipment should: − − be monitored to ensure continuous operation while the confined space is occupied, and have the controls (including any remote power supply) clearly identified, tagged and protected to guard against unauthorised interference. Flammable gases and vapours WHS Regulation clause 72 Confined spaces—Specific control—flammable gases and vapours A PCBU must, while work is being carried out in a confined space, ensure that the concentration of any flammable gas, vapour or mist in the atmosphere of the space is less than 5 per cent of its LEL, so far as is reasonably practicable. If this is not reasonably practicable, and the concentration of any flammable gas, vapour or mist in the atmosphere of the confined space: − − is equal to or greater than 5 per cent but less than 10 per cent of its LEL—the PCBU must ensure that any worker is immediately removed from the space unless a suitably calibrated, continuous-monitoring flammable gas detector is used in the space, or is equal to or greater than 10 per cent of its LEL—the PCBU must ensure that any worker is immediately removed from the space. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 34 of 54 Where a flammable atmosphere may exist in a confined space and there is a risk of fire and explosion, all ignition sources in the vicinity must be eliminated. Examples of potential ignition sources, both inside and outside the space, include: − − − − − − open flames and hot surfaces electrical equipment internal combustion engines metal tools striking metal surfaces spark-producing equipment for example grinding wheels, and welding, grinding, oxy acetylene cutting, combustion engines and battery-operated equipment. Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) If it is not reasonably practicable to ensure the confined space contains a safe oxygen level, or safe levels of airborne contaminants, then appropriate air-supplied respiratory equipment (RPE) must be provided. RPE should also be provided and worn in situations where there is no exposure standard for a substance, or where the substance is present in an unknown concentration. ‘Respiratory protective equipment’ refers to a range of breathing equipment, including airsupplied and self-contained breathing apparatus. The appropriate RPE should be based on the level and type of contaminants and the work to be done. Whenever there is any doubt about the airborne contaminant and/or type of RPE required, a conservative approach should be adopted (for instance, use air-supplied respiratory equipment). Further guidance is available in AS/NZS 1715:2009: Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment. 4.6. Communication and safety monitoring WHS Regulation clause 69 Confined spaces—Communication and safety monitoring As a PCBU, you must ensure that a system of work is provided that includes: − − continuous communication with the worker from outside the confined space, and monitoring of conditions within the confined space by a stand-by person who is in the vicinity of the confined space and, if practicable, observing the work being carried out. A communication system is needed to enable communication between people inside and outside the confined space and to summon help in an emergency. Depending on the conditions in the confined space, communication can be achieved by voice, radio, hand signals or other suitable methods. Before a worker enters a confined space, a stand-by person must be assigned to continuously monitor the wellbeing of those inside the space, if practicable observe the work being carried out, and initiate appropriate emergency procedures when necessary (see Figure 7). The stand-by person should: − understand the nature of the hazards inside the confined space and be able to recognise signs and symptoms that workers in the confined space may experience Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 35 of 54 − − − − remain outside the confined space and do no other work which may interfere with their primary role of monitoring the workers inside the space have all required rescue equipment (for example safety harnesses, lifting equipment, a lifeline) immediately available have the authority to order workers to exit the space if any hazardous situation arises, and never enter the space to attempt rescue. Figure 7 Stand-by person monitoring the confined space with rescue equipment and sign in place 4.7. Entry and exit procedures For the entire period for which the confined space entry permit is valid, procedures should be in place to indicate when any worker is in the space, for example by using tags, a system of signing in and out on the entry permit, or having a stand-by person record who is in the space. 4.8. Signs and barricades Before any work in relation to a confined space starts, signs must be erected to prevent entry of persons not involved in the work. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 36 of 54 Signs must warn against entry by people other than those who are listed on the confined space entry permit, and must be placed at each entrance to the confined space. Signs must be in place while the confined space is accessible, including when preparing to work in the space, during work in the space, and when packing up on completion of the work. Signposting alone should not be relied on to prevent unauthorised entry to a potential confined space. Security devices, for example locks and fixed barriers, should be installed. 4.9. Maintaining and reviewing control measures WHS Regulation clause 37 Maintenance of control measures Control measures must be maintained so they remain fit for purpose, suitable for the nature and duration of the work and be installed, set up and used correctly. To allow the chosen control measures to operate effectively, you should develop work procedures on how to correctly install, use and maintain the control measures. The procedures should include a planned program of inspections and maintenance for the control measures. The inspection regime should include details of: − − − − − − the equipment to be inspected including its unique identification the frequency and type of inspection, for example pre-use checks, detailed inspections action to be taken on finding defective equipment means of recording the inspections training of users, and the system of monitoring the inspection regime to verify inspections are carried out appropriately. The manufacturer or supplier of the equipment should be consulted for product specific requirements. If signs of excessive wear or other defects are found during the inspection the defective equipment must be withdrawn from use. WHS Regulation clause 38 Review of control measures The control measures put in place to protect health and safety should be regularly reviewed to make sure they are effective. If the control measure is not working effectively it must be revised to ensure it is effective in controlling the risk. You must review and as necessary revise control measures so as to maintain, so far as is reasonably practicable, a work environment that is without risks to health or safety. For example: − − − − − when the control measure does not control the risk so far as is reasonably practicable before a change at the workplace that is likely to give rise to a new or different risk to health and safety that the measure may not effectively control a new or relevant hazard or risk is identified the results of consultation indicate a review is necessary, or a health and safety representative (HSR) requests a review if that person reasonably believes that: Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 37 of 54   a circumstance in any of the above points affects or may affect the health and safety of a member of the work group represented by the HSR, or the control measure has not been adequately reviewed in response to the circumstance. Common review methods include workplace inspection, consultation, testing and analysing records and data. Equipment that should be regularly inspected includes: − − − − − − − − atmospheric testing and sampling equipment PPE including respirators ventilation equipment safety harness and lines emergency rescue equipment gas detectors respirator filters, and safety harnesses, lines and rescue retrieval equipment. You can use the same methods as in the initial hazard identification step to check control measures. You must consult your workers involved in the confined spaces work and their health and safety representative (HSR) and consider the following questions: − − − − − − − − − Are the control measures working effectively in both their design and operation? How effective is the risk assessment process? Are all hazards being identified? Are workers actively involved in the risk management process? Are they openly raising health and safety concerns and reporting problems promptly? Have new work methods or new equipment made the job safer? Are safety procedures being followed? Have instruction and training provided to workers been successful? If new legislation or new information becomes available, does it indicate that current controls may no longer be the most effective? Is any change planned to any plant or structure that may create a confined space or change the nature of an existing confined space? Has an incident occurred as a result of work carried out in a confined space? If problems are found, go back through the risk management steps, review your information and make further decisions about risk control. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 38 of 54 5. Emergency procedures WHS Regulation clause 74 Confined spaces—Emergency procedures A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must establish first aid and rescue procedures to be followed in an emergency and ensure that workers practise those procedures to ensure that they are efficient and effective. First aid and rescue procedures must be initiated from outside the confined space as soon as practicable in an emergency. As a PCBU, you must also ensure that openings for entry and exit are of a sufficient size to allow emergency access, openings are not obstructed, and any plant, equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) provided for first aid or emergency rescue are maintained in good working order. When establishing emergency procedures, the following factors must be taken into account to manage risks associated with confined spaces: − − − − − whether the work can be carried out without the need to enter the confined space the nature of the confined space any changes in hazards associated with the concentration of oxygen or the concentration of airborne contaminants in the confined space the work to be carried out in the confined space, the range of methods by which the work can be carried out and the proposed method of working, and the type of emergency and rescue procedures required. You should also take into account the considerations in Table 3. Table 3 Considerations when establishing emergency procedures for confined spaces Relevant consideration Questions Location of the confined space − − What is the geographic location of the space? How accessible is it in an emergency? and How far away is it from appropriate medical facilities? Communications − How can workers working inside the space communicate to people outside in an emergency? Exactly how will the alarm be raised and by whom? Has planning been done to ensure that rescue and emergency personnel can access the workplace during night shift, weekends and holiday periods? − − − Rescue and resuscitation equipment − − What kinds of emergencies are contemplated? Have you identified and provided suitable rescue and resuscitation equipment dependent on the potential emergencies? For example taking into account:    − Confined spaces Code of Practice the nature of the work being carried out at the workplace the size and location of the workplace, and the number and composition of the workers and other persons at the workplace. Is the selected rescue equipment kept in close proximity to the confined space so that it can be used immediately? Page 39 of 54 Relevant consideration Questions Capabilities of rescuers − − First aid Local emergency services—if they are to be relied on for rescue Are rescuers properly trained, sufficiently fit to carry out their task and capable of using any equipment provided for rescue (e.g. breathing apparatus, lifelines and firefighting equipment)? How will rescuers be protected during the emergency operation? − Is appropriate first aid available for immediate use? Are trained first aid personnel available to make proper use of any necessary first aid equipment? − How will the local emergency services (e.g. fire brigade) be notified of an incident? What information about the particular dangers in the confined space will be given to them on their arrival? Have prior arrangements been made with local emergency services to ensure they are able to respond in a reasonable time and have the specialist confined space retrieval equipment readily available? − − − First aid and rescue procedures should be rehearsed with relevant workers to ensure that they are efficient and effective. Rescue should be performed from outside the confined space, if possible. Workers performing a rescue must be adequately trained, and must be provided with air-supplied respiratory protective equipment if they enter a confined space in an emergency in which: − − − the atmosphere in the confined space does not have a safe oxygen level, or the atmosphere in the space has a harmful concentration of an airborne contaminant, or there is a serious risk of the atmosphere in the space becoming affected in the way referred to above while the worker is in the space. If a person inside a confined space has been overcome by lack of oxygen or by airborne contaminants, it should always be assumed that entry for rescue is unsafe unless airsupplied respiratory protective equipment is used. Potential problems with the size of entrances and exits must be addressed when developing emergency and rescue procedures. Where openings are found to be inadequate, their size should be increased, or an alternative safe means of entry and exit should be provided. Confined spaces Code of Practice Page 40 of 54