Entry procedure for permit-required confined space
Step Person Action
Planning
1. Confined space entry
supervisor
Determines if non-entry rescue can be performed. If it cannot, entry is prohibited;
contacts EHS or makes rescue arrangements with Yale approved rescue service
vendor.
2. Confined space entry
supervisor
Determines control measures for hazards associated with the confined space entry
3. Confined space entry
supervisor
Verifies that all required equipment, attendants, and entrants are available
Pre-entry
4. Confined space entry
supervisor
Documents the pre-entry process with the permit-required confined space procedure
and entry permit
5. Confined space entry
supervisor
Ensures that the confined space’s atmosphere is ventilated as necessary and tested
prior to entry using properly calibrated monitoring equipment. (For assistance with
obtaining monitoring equipment, contact EHS. See tools section for checklist
describing use of multi-gas monitor)
Results for the following must be recorded on the permit
• Oxygen
• Flammability (percent of lower explosive limit)
• Hydrogen sulfide
• Carbon monoxide
• Any other suspected or known atmospheric hazard
If at any time the oxygen concentration or other monitored components in the
atmosphere fall out of their designated ranges, the cause must be determined and
controls must be in place before entry is allowed. If entry is necessary to correct the
deficiency, self-contained breathing apparatus must be worn.
Note: The entrant has the right to witness atmospheric testing.
6. Confined space entry
supervisor
Secures the work site as appropriate
• Installs barriers and/or controls vehicular and pedestrian traffic as needed
• Posts warning signs and any required permit(s) at the work location
• Takes measures to prevent hazards near the confined space
7. Confined space entry
supervisor
Conducts pre-entry briefing for all personnel involved in the entry that includes at
minimum these topics
• Work to be performed
• Anticipated hazards, including signs, symptoms and consequences of exposure
• Hazard control measures
• Prohibited conditions (specified in the permit)
• Non-entry rescue procedures; generally these involve using a full-body harness
with a retrieval line attached to a mechanical device or fixed point.
8. Confined space entry
supervisor
Verifies that
• All control measures, procedures, and equipment specified by the permit are in
place
• Entry conditions are acceptable
9. Confined space entry
supervisor
Signs the pre-entry certification section of the permit