Confined Space Entry: Trainee Handbook

Trainee Handbook
Confined Space
Entry
Job Skills Curriculum & Testing Unit

Program Development & Evaluation Division
Training & Development
May 2016
© Copyright Saudi Aramco, 2016.
All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, by any process
or technique, without the express written consent of Saudi Aramco.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Confined Space Entry
TRAINEE HANDBOOK
Information Sheets................................................................1
Exercise A..........................................................................5
Exercise B.........................................................................18
Exercise C.........................................................................27
Exercise D........................................................................60
Case Studies....................................................................67
Glossary.................................................................................77
Appendix
Handouts
May 2016
INFORMATION SHEET
Enabling Objectives Terminal Objective

1.1 You will, correctly and without
Define and identify Confined Space Entry. help, be able to identify the
minimum safety requirements
1.2 and procedures when
planning, opening, entering,
State the requirements of the confined space entry
exiting, and performing work
program.
in a confined spaces.
1.3
Define the requirements to plan and prepare a Confine
Space Entry.
1.4
Identify work hazards and control measures.
Slide 1
Slide 1
Confined Space Entry
INTRODUCTION
Saudi Aramco conducts many work tasks that require
entry into confined spaces. Confined space entry
Slide 2
(CSE) has many hazards that we must all eliminate or
control. Workers must know and follow established Slide 2
confined space entry procedures and follow all safety

procedures. Your training today on CSE Hazards and
Control is among the most important training you
will receive at Saudi Aramco.
In this course you will learn the definition of a confined Slide 3
space and the minimum site safety requirements Slide 3

and procedures to be implemented when opening,
entering, exiting, and/or performing work within these
spaces. You will now watch a video showing you the
hazards associated with Confined Space Entry.
Slide 4 CSB Video
Slide 4
Confined Space Entry May 2016 1
INFORMATION SHEET
PART I OBJECTIVE 1.1
Define and Identify Confined Space Entry
Slide 5 What is a Confined Space?

Slide 5
A confined space is any space or structure not
normally meant for human occupancy. It is where
entry, movement within, or exit is restricted. These
include tanks, vessels, columns, manholes, and pits.
Slide 6 Many workplaces contain spaces that are confined

because employees cannot easily enter, work in, and
Slide 6
exit them.
In general, when a structure or space has a single

characteristic of a confined space, CSE procedures
apply including CSE permit requirements.
What is Confined Space Entry?

Slide 7
A confined space entry is when anyone puts any part

Slide 7
of their body through the opening of the space. For
example, putting your head into a tank opening or
manhole is an entry (see Slides 6 & 7).
When work tasks require you to enter into a confined

space, you must follow CSE procedures and a CSE
work permit must be issued before work can begin.
For confined space procedures see Construction Safety
Manual, Section 6 Confined Spaces. G.I. 2.100 Work
Permit System addresses confined space entry permits.
2 May 2016 Confined Space Entry

INFORMATION SHEET
Examples of Confined Spaces
Slide 8
Confined spaces are not designed for human

occupancy. This means that workers cannot be inside
for any extended period of time.
Certain confined spaces may be designed for

Slide 8
very limited entry. Examples include manholes,
sewer systems, cargo holds, engine rooms, barge
compartments, shafts, and tunnels.
A confined space may not necessarily be enclosed on

all sides: open tops such as vats, storage towers, and
the floating roof of a large tank are also confined
spaces.
Trenches and other excavations that are 1.2 m (4 ft.)

or more in depth are a confined space. Excavations
can include pits, culverts, and sumps.
A space may become a confined space due to the

kind of work or a change in the condition inside.

INFORMATION SHEET
For example, spray painting in an enclosed room can

create a hazardous atmosphere. Also, asbestos work
in an enclosed room and sealed with plastic drapes
can create a hazardous atmosphere.
Un- or poorly ventilated spaces, storage areas, and

voids may be oxygen deficient or may develop a
hazardous atmosphere. Even a new tank can become
a confined space during the late stages of assembly
on location.
Now do Exercise A.
Slide 9
Slide 9

INFORMATION SHEET
EXERCISE A
Directions: Answer the following questions by completing
the sentence with the correct answer or select the correct
answer(s).
1. An excavated trench deeper than feet

is considered a confined space.
a. 4
b. 3
c. 2
d. 3.5
2. A confined space has restricted and

.
a. entry and exit
b. leaving and escape
c. exit and egress
d. leaving and exit
3. Which of the following are considered to be

confined spaces?
a. Tanks
b. Vessels
c. Manholes
d. All answers

INFORMATION SHEET
4. Which of the following describes a confined

space?
a. Limited access
b. Limited natural ventilation
c. Not design for human occupancy and limited

working space
d. All the answers
5. The atmosphere of a confined space is

unacceptable if the oxygen level is below
percent or above percent.
a. 20% and 23.5%
b. 19.5% and 22%
c. 19% and 22%
d. 20% and 21%
6. Which of the following hazards can be found

in confined spaces?
a. Temperature
b. Noise
c. Hazardous atmosphere
d. All the answers

INFORMATION SHEET
7. Which hazardous atmosphere can be found in

a confined space?
a. Asphyxiating atmospheres (suffocation)
b. Toxic atmospheres
c. Flammable atmospheres (LEL)
d. All the answers
8. Exhaust diesel or petrol fumes near a confined

space may contain that can present a
hazard for a nearby confined space.
a. carbon monoxide
b. carbon dioxide
c. carbon trioxide
d. oxygen
9. The air temperature in a confined space is not

considered when evaluating working conditions
in confined spaces.
a. True
b. False

INFORMATION SHEET
PART II OBJECTIVE 1.2
State the Requirements of the Confined Space Entry

Program
Slide 10
Slide 10 The Confined Space Entry Program

The confined space entry program includes all of the
policies, procedures, permits, and plans that ensure
that work inside of a confined space is conducted
safely. Proponent departments and contractor
CSE programs must comply with all Saudi Aramco
Slide 11
requirements.
Slide 11
Your organization and all contractors for grassroots
projects must develop and implement a CSE program,
which must include but not be limited to the following:
LOCAL CSE PROGRAMS MUST INCLUDE
o identifying all confined spaces within your or your

contractor’s area(s) of control
o potential hazards associated with work performed

in confined spaces
o requirements for developing a confined space

entry plan prior to entry into a confined space
in order to control, minimize, or eliminate the
hazards
o training and qualification requirements for

personnel involved in confined space entry
o procedures for rescue of personnel from a

confined space
Table 1

INFORMATION SHEET
CSE Permits
A Confined Space Entry Permit (SA-9873-4) is required
for all jobs where personnel enter a confined space.
CSE permits also apply for project sites. CSE activities
in hydrocarbon processing areas can include vessel
Slide 12
cleaning, inspecting the inside of tank, working in
sewers, sumps pits or valve boxes, and working in Slide 12
excavations or trenches deeper than 1.2 m (4 ft.).
A CSE permit documents the minimum safety

requirements for the job and informs the work crew
and other applicable personnel.
Work Permit Issuer and Receiver Roles

If you are the work permit issuer, you must identify
all existing hazards of the work and the confined
space. Work permit issuers and receivers must make
sure that all work task hazards are identified and
either controlled or eliminated. Hazard control
requirements are recorded on the work permit and
become a condition for starting work.
Many CSE jobs require more than one permit. For

example, a welding job inside of a tank during a T&I
requires a CSE permit for entry into the tank and a
hot work permit for the welding.
A work permit program is not effective if the program

is not implemented correctly. Each job that requires
a work permit must be carefully and methodically
planned out.

INFORMATION SHEET
Management Roles & Responsibilities

Proponent management must develop and implement
a CSE program that complies with all Saudi Aramco
requirements. Each unique confined space must be
addressed with a CSE plan. Plans must be periodically
Slide 13
reviewed and updated.
Slide 13
Proponent management is
also responsible for employee There are many roles you may be asked to take on
training. in the Confined Space Entry process depending on
your position and training (see Table 2).
CONFINED SPACE ENTRY ROLES
o Entrant
o Standby Man
o Fire Watch
o Confined Space Entry Supervisor
o Work Permit Issuer/Receiver
o Gas Tester
Table 2
All of these role are important to ensure safe confined

space entries. These roles are covered in this course
and in greater detail in the Gas Testing and Work
Permit courses. We will now look at some of the
major roles.
Management must designate CSE supervisors who

will provide the onsite guidance, monitoring and
supervision of the program. We will now look at
the roles of:

INFORMATION SHEET
❏❏ CSE Supervisor
❏❏ CSE Standby Man
❏❏ CSE Entrant
CSE Supervisor Roles and

Responsibilities
The CSE Supervisor is a work permit issuer or someone
who has been assigned by an issuer and directs all
aspects of the confined space entry (see Slide 14).
The CSES must know CSE hazards and controls. He

must be trained and experienced about gas testing
Slide 14
and gas monitoring procedures.
Slide 14
The CSES supervisor inspects the job site and studies

the existing hazards both in and out of the confined
space. He is involved in hazard identification and
control and documents safety requirements on the
CSE permit.
The CSE supervisor oversees entry operations and will

terminate an entry as required, such as when job
conditions change or an emergency arises.
The CSE supervisor has overall responsibility for and

must be able to manage all aspects of a CSE job.
Additional responsibilities are listed below in Table 3.
Slide 15
Slide 15

INFORMATION SHEET
FURTHER CSE SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES
o Ensure confined space entry and gas test logs are

properly completed.
o Ensure the proper PPE is provided to personnel

entering the confined space and to each standby
Slide 16 man.
Slide 16
o Ensure means of communication, fire extinguisher
(non-CO2 type) and SCBA (if required: H2S CSE) are
available to each standby man.
o Verify rescue equipment and rescue teams are

available in the event of an emergency requiring
evacuation of the confined space.
o Ensure the confined space entrance is barricaded

or blocked and a “NO ENTRY” sign posted if
confined space entry is suspended.
o Terminate the confined space entry job and cancel

work permits when unsafe conditions develop.
Table 3
At Saudi Aramco, making arrangements for rescuing

an injured entrant is a CSE supervisor responsibility.
Only trained rescue teams are allowed to perform a
confined space rescue. However, the CSE supervisor
should be familiar with rescue methods, techniques
and types of rescue equipment used in confined space
rescue operations. Additionally, he should know and
have experience with equipment used in confined
space entry operations to conduct a safe entry, exit,
and work within the space.

INFORMATION SHEET
CSE Standby Man
Slide 17
A standby
Slide 17 man is the worker who is responsible
for monitoring the internal and external activities
associated with work in and around a confined space.
He is generally stationed at an entry point to the
confined space near to where the work is taking
place. This worker acts as the ‘eyes’ and ‘ears’ of
the entrants in the confined space. Because of the
important responsibilities associated with monitoring
CSE activities, standby duties are his only assigned job.
Note: in some cases he could also be the Fire watch.

INFORMATION SHEET
Standby Man Roles & Responsibilities
Slide 18
Before starting a CSE job, the standby man must

review the CSE plan for the space and its issued work
permits. He must understand the hazards, precautions,
responsibilities, and emergency procedures for the job.
Slide 18 The standby man must know the effects of exposure to

potential hazardous substances in the confined space.
The standby man must keep count of entrants and

make sure that every person’s name entering or exiting
the space is on the Confined Space Entry Log for the
job. In case of an emergency, the Confined Space
Entry Log accounts for all entrants. The standby man
must prevent unauthorized personnel from entering
the confined space.
A standby man must monitor activities inside and

outside the confined space. He must maintain two-
way communication with entrants to monitor entrant
status and be alert for signs or effects of exposure
to an atmospheric hazard.

INFORMATION SHEET
If there is a need to evacuate the space, he will alert

entrants. In the event of an emergency, the standby
man must sound the alarm and notify supervisory
personnel.
A standby man must be posted at the entry point

whenever an entrant is in the space. He performs
no other duties that could interfere with his standby
responsibilities. Standby men are never dismissed until
all entrants have exited the space.
The standby man must never leave his assigned

location until relieved by another standby worker.
If relieved by another standby worker, this must be
agreed by the work permit issuer and recorded on
the CSEP form.
The standby man must order entrants to evacuate the

confined space under the conditions listed on Slide 18.
Entrant
A CS entrant is anyone who is trained to enter a
confined space to perform work. This includes entering
for light tasks such as visual inspection or taking
measurements.
Slide 19
Slide 19

INFORMATION SHEET
Entrant Roles & Responsibilities
Slide 20
An entrant has perhaps the most hazardous task on

Slide 20
a CSE job: you must enter the confined space, so you
must be fully prepared for the job. You must know and
follow all safety requirements for the job. You must
know how to communicate with standby personnel.
Before starting a CSE job you must review the CSE plan
specific for the space and the work permits issued.
As an entrant, you must understand the hazards,

precautions, responsibilities, and emergency
procedures for the job. An entrant must know the
effects of exposure to potential hazardous substances
in the confined space. If an entrant believes he is
experiencing symptoms of exposure to a hazardous
atmosphere you should stop work, notify standby
personnel and exit the space.

INFORMATION SHEET
An entrant must never enter a confined space until

he is satisfied that all precautions are in place. If you
are an entrant, you must clearly understand your
work assignment, safety precautions, and know how
to use the required PPE.
Slide 21
You must also communicate with the confined space
Slide 21
standby man so that work activity and status can be
monitored from the outside. An entrant and standby
man must be alert for symptoms or any possible
behavioral effects of exposure to hazardous substances
inside the space.
The entrant must promptly alert the standby man

and other entrants whenever an order to evacuate
is given, any warning signs or symptoms of exposure
develop, or an emergency alarm is activated. In such
situations the worker must exit the confined space
as quickly as possible.
Now do Exercise B. Slide 22
Slide 22

INFORMATION SHEET
EXERCISE B
answer(s).
1. What must you have before entering into a

confined space within a Saudi Aramco facility
or a project site?
a. A valid Confined Space Entry permit issued

by a certified Issuer
b. A valid entry plan is sufficient; no need for

work permit
c. Qualified and certified employees don’t

need work permit
d. All the answers
2. What are the roles you need for a confined

space entry?
a. A Confined Space Entry Supervisor, an

Entrant and a Standby man
b. A confined Space Entry Supervisor and any

other employees can go in if he watches
them
c. An Entrant and a flagman at the exit point
d. A Standby Man, Fireman and the Supervisor

INFORMATION SHEET
3. Which of the following are part of the Standby

Man’s responsibilities?
a. Monitors internal and external activities of

a confined space entry
b. Never leaves the point of entry and never

enters
c. Maintains communication and orders

evacuation of entrant(s) in case of an
emergency
d. All the answers
4. Which of the following are part of the Entrant’s

responsibilities?
a. Never enters until all precautions are

in place and he understands the work
assignment
b. Maintains communication with the Standby

Man
c. Alerts Standby Man and other Entrants to

exit in case of emergency
d. All the answers

INFORMATION SHEET
PART III OBJECTIVE 1.3
Define the Requirements to Plan and Prepare a Confine

Space Entry
Slide 23
Slide 23 CSE Process Flowchart
This flow chart represents the major operational tasks
and decision points in the process of planning and
conducting a CSE job.
The first question: Can the work can be accomplished

without entry into a confined space? Since hazards
within a space can be increased in number and
severity, avoid entry when feasible.
If repair or service work cannot be done without

entering, securing work permits and initiating the
lock out-tag out procedure can start.
Almost all CSE jobs will require additional permits.

For example, scaffolding inside of a confined space
will require a cold work permit. Grit blasting will
require a hot work permit. The permit process will
initiate an in depth study of the existing hazards and
control techniques for the job.
Next, lock out-tag out procedures for the confined

At a minimum, G.I. 6.012
Isolation, Lockout and space must be initiated. This means that equipment
Use of Hold Tags must be must be isolated, shut down, de-energized and locked
implemented.
and tagged out of service. Residual product must be
drained, cleaned or purged from the confined space
if flammable or toxic.

INFORMATION SHEET
If the atmosphere is safe for entry, assign a standby

man and final verifications of permit conditions. If
the atmosphere tests as unsafe, air movers can purge
toxic gases.
If acceptable gas test results cannot be achieved,

then a SCBA or a supplied-air respirator is required.
Workers must make sure they can enter and exit the
space safely while wearing the breathing apparatus.
A small manhole, for example, can be difficult to
negotiate with an SCBA worn on the back.
An unsafe atmosphere with an entry point too small

for a breathing apparatus is a problem. Work cannot
proceed and the situation must be remedied.
Always verify permit conditions before entry. Gas

testing may be required regularly throughout the job.
When work takes longer than allowed by the permit

(including its standard renewal), new permits must
be issued. New permits will require a repeat study
of the job conditions including new gas testing of
the atmosphere.
At the end of the job all equipment is removed from

the inside the confined space, applicable work permits
are closed, and equipment or process is returned to
normal operations.

INFORMATION SHEET
Confined Space Entry Plan

Besides a work permit, each CSE job must have
a written CSE plan. This plan must address many
safety issues including specific confined space
hazards, precautions, responsibilities, and emergency
Slide 24
procedures.
Slide 24
The CSE supervisor must review and communicate the

plan to entrants and standby men. The plan must be
available for review by all personnel involved in the
confined space entry.
The Saudi Aramco Proponent Organization (SAPO)

or a contractor (e.g., for a grassroots construction
project) must develop the plan. In all cases, Saudi
Aramco requirements must be followed.
There is no standard template that can be applied

for all CSE jobs. The individual work site and job
details will dictate the items to be included in the
specific plan.
Slides 25 and 26 list the requirements of a confined

space entry plan.
Slide 25
Slide 25

INFORMATION SHEET
Pre-Entry Preparation
Slide 26
Slide 27 lists the pre-entry preparation requirements.

Slide 26
Slide 27
Slide 27 Space Entry

Confined May 2016 23
INFORMATION SHEET
Confined Space Entry Preparation

For CSE jobs performed by workers from a Saudi
Aramco proponent department only, the CSE permit
must be issued to a proponent work permit receiver.
Slide 28 Confined space standby men and entrants must be

physically fit for entry. Entry can mean reaching,
Slide 28
climbing, carrying equipment, bending and stooping.
Standby men must have means of communication
to ensure continuous communication with entrants
and with the other personnel (CSE Supervisor, rescue
team) in event of an emergency.
At least one 30-lb. fire extinguisher must be near each

Never use CO2 fire extinguishers
inside confined spaces because designated confined space entry point if the space
they can displace breathing air. is within process equipment (vessel, column, or tank)
or where combustible or flammable material may be
present, including residue.
A plan to rescue entrants in an emergency must be

part of the CSE job plan. The CSE supervisor must
verify the rescue plan and equipment. Emergency and
rescue phone numbers must be recorded in the plan
and on the work permit. Properly trained standby
personnel must be stationed at all times when entrants
Slide 29 are in the space.
Slide 29
Preparing for a CSE job means all equipment, including
fire and rescue equipment taken into the space must
be tested, verified and ready for use. Use and test
2-way communications. Use a confined space checklist.
A CSE checklist must be completed by the work permit

issuer and receiver during their joint site inspection
before they sign each work permit. A specific checklist
may be used for some specific confined space entries
but a CSE Permit Hazard Analysis Checklist can be
used for most other entries.
Slide 30
Slide
24 30May 2016 Confined Space Entry
INFORMATION SHEET
CSE Checklist
To assist with the numerous details of preparing for
a CSE job, permit issuers and receivers must make use
of a checklist. This requirement is directed in Section
6 Confined Spaces, of the Saudi Aramco Construction
Slide 31
Safety Manual. A checklist must be completed by the
work permit issuer and receiver during their joint Slide 31
site inspection prior to signing the work permit.

The Hazard Analysis Checklist on the CSE Permit is
sufficient for most CSE but a specific checklist must
be developed and completed for complex entries
identified by local proponent. The completed checklist
or permit must remain at the confined space entry.
Keep the Area Clear!

Entry points must be kept clear for easy access and
egress, especially emergency vehicles and personnel,
when entrants are in the space.
Slide 32
When the job is not active and there are no entrants

in the space, entry and exit points must be blocked
and labeled as a confined space and to keep out.
Slide 32
INFORMATION SHEET
Confined space warning signs and barriers must be

posted outside the confined space—in both Arabic
and English.
To prepare the entry,use air movers to ventilate a

Yo u m u s t u s e y o u r P P E
continuously during the workspace where a hazardous atmosphere exists or
confined space entry! could develop during the planned work. Atmospheric
gas testing must be performed per the CSE plan and
work permit to verify the atmosphere is safe for entry.
CSE Isolation and LOTO

For CSE isolation and/or LOTO jobs, G.I. 6.012 Isolation,
Lockout and Use of Hold Tags must be implemented.
G.I. 2.100 may also apply to equipment inside of or
adjacent to the space. Electrical, mechanical, hydraulic
and pneumatic systems must be de-energized, locked
Slide 33
and tagged out.
Slide 33
Drain, Clean and Purge Confined Spaces

Residual products must be drained, cleaned or purged
by steam cleaning or power washing. Flammable or
other hazardous fluids can be purged using an inert
gas such as nitrogen.
Slide 34
Usually, equipment is shut down and isolated first,
Slide 34
Operators must properly then depressurized or de-energized. Then, the
prepare equipment for entry equipment must be cleaned or purged.
before a confined space entry
permit is issued.
Frequently, equipment is filled with a non-flammable,
non-reactive material like nitrogen. This removes
hazardous material and is called purging. Purging is a
safe way to remove flammable or hazardous material
from inside equipment.
Now do Exercise C.
Slide 35
Slide 35
INFORMATION SHEET
EXERCISE C
answer(s).
1. A confined space entry permit is required for

jobs when you enter a confined space.
a. True
b. False
2. Vessel entry for cleaning activities in hydrocarbon

processing plants requires a confined space entry
(CSE) permit.
a. True
b. False
3. A confined space entry permit ensures the proper

preparation of the confined space, identification
and control of hazards, the safe entry and exit
of personnel, and rescue plans are in place.
a. True
b. False

INFORMATION SHEET
4. A confined space entry plan is the written

to isolate, de-pressurize, clean,
drain, purge or ventilate, and perform emergency
rescue unique to a specific confined space.
a. procedures
b. stories
c. quotation
d. essay
5. During the joint site Inspection, all hazards and

controls are identified and recorded on the
work permit form and become conditions for
the confined space entry?
a. True
b. False

INFORMATION SHEET
PART IV OBJECTIVE 1.4
Identify Work Hazards and Control Measures
Confined Space Physical Hazards

Slide 36
Industrial hazards outside of a confined space can
Slide 36
be also inside the space, and often more severe (e.g.
noise, grinding).
Whenever possible, entry into confined spaces should

be avoided or greatly limited. All workers involved
in a CSE job must be trained on CSE hazards and
hazard control. The most common hazards include:
❏❏ engulfment
❏❏ temperature extremes
❏❏ electrical
❏❏ mechanical
❏❏ noise
❏❏ slips, trips and falls
❏❏ poor lighting
❏❏ atmospheric
❏❏ confined space configuration
❏❏ external activities
❏❏ confined space atmosphere
❏❏ flammable atmosphere
❏❏ toxic atmosphere
❏❏ radioactive materials
❏❏ mercury
❏❏ other toxic materials

INFORMATION SHEET
Slide 37
Slide 37
Engulfment
Engulfment means to bury or submerge. Engulfment
is when a worker is buried or trapped by soil, sand,
or gravel; or submerged by a liquid or chemical.
Solid materials can be very heavy on the body and
can cause injury or death by crushing or suffocating.
Liquids can cause drowning or injuries from the liquid
or chemical. All of these are engulfment.
An excavation can have engulfment hazards from

loose sand and seeping water such as when trenches
or excavations cave-in or collapse.
Temperature Extremes
A confined space with limited ventilation can become
extremely hot or cold. In extremely hot environments,
the hazards are heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or
heat stroke. In extreme cold you can lose feeling in

INFORMATION SHEET
your fingers, toes, and the ability to think clearly.

Protective insulated clothing and PPE for both hot
and cold environments adds additional bulk and
fatigue to a worker.
Insulated clothing and PPE must be considered to

ensure workers can move within the confined space,
to operate equipment, and exit the space quickly.
Electrical Hazards
Electrical safety applies the same outside or inside
a confined space. Working with electric tools or on
energized circuits can be especially hazardous; both
can be ignition sources and need a hot work permit.
Controlling electrical circuits may require LOTO
procedures. Dampness can create other electrical
hazards. The path of electrical cords and location of
connections must be planned to minimize tripping
hazards.
Mechanical Hazards
Agitators, stirrers, unguarded chains, pulleys, rotating
blades, belts, fans, or other moving and rotating parts
are all mechanical hazards. LOTO procedures may
apply for some of these. Because of limited space,
you must be extremely careful to avoid points of
contact and wear appropriate PPE.
Noise
Noise can disrupt communication and increase stress
levels in workers—and is usually worse in a confined
space. Noise is generally controlled with PPE, but this
can make communication difficult in the space and
with standby personnel.

INFORMATION SHEET
Slips, Trips and Falls

Confined spaces can have sludge, oil or water. Slip
hazards should be controlled by initial entry for
cleaning or remote cleaning (outside the space).
Spaces with ladder access introduce ladder safety
issues. Wear shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles
and consider utilizing harnesses or lifelines.
Poor Lighting
Confined spaces often have poor lighting. Temporary,
job-specific lighting can introduce electrical hazards
and can be an ignition source. Natural light where
possible is preferred. Lights that are sealed against
flammable and explosive atmospheres may be
required.
Atmospheric Hazards
All confined spaces must be gas tested for flammable,
toxic (H 2S, CO), and explosive gases as well as
adequate oxygen (deficiency less than 20% or
enrichment above 23.5%). This applies especially when
hydrocarbon process equipment must be entered for
cleaning or service. Bring in and circulate fresh air
in confined spaces to make them safe. SCBA/SABA is
often required.

INFORMATION SHEET
Slide 38
Slide 38
Confined Space Configuration

The configuration of a confined space is the size and
shape of the space plus other physical characteristics
such as the number, size, and location of entry and
exit points. The configuration can determine the
number and level of hazards, e.g., moving inside,
and the plan for emergency egress or rescue in an
emergency.
An internal configuration is open when there are

little or no obstructions to movement within the
space, such as a drained and locked out water tank.
An obstructed configuration, which is obviously more
hazardous, has parts or equipment that workers must
move around such as a baffle or mixing blade, tubes
inside a gas-fired boiler, or scaffolding. An obstructed
configuration may have walls that converge inward or
floors that slope downward and taper into a smaller
area which can trap an entrant.

INFORMATION SHEET
Entry and exit points 1.2m (4 ft.) or more from ground

level can make entering or exiting the space more
difficult, especially during emergency or rescue efforts.
A better entry point is unrestricted and allows

relatively free movement into and out of the confined
space. A restricted entry point has 24 inches or less,
making entry/exit difficult in emergencies and rescue.
A horizontal entry point is on the side of the space.

This configuration makes rescue retrieval lines
difficult. A vertical entry point is on the top of the
space. Workers or rescue personnel must climb down
into the space. If the entry point is at the bottom,
workers or rescue personnel must climb up to enter
the space. Vertical entry points may require a hoist
to safely retrieve an entrant in case of an emergency.
External Activities
Hazardous conditions and activities outside of a
confined space must be identified, controlled, and
evaluated for their potential impact on a confined
space. For example, work such as hydrocarbon product
sampling near a confined space may cause toxic or
other hazardous fumes to be swept into the space
through entry points or ventilation systems. Diesel
exhaust fumes from a vehicle can also contaminate
the atmosphere of a nearby space.
Other external CSE hazards include product loading

and unloading that can generate gases or vapors.
Overhead crane hazards include falling objects.

INFORMATION SHEET
Confined Space Atmospheres

Naturally occurring, normal air is about 20.9% oxygen.
Acceptable levels of oxygen in a confined space are
between 20.0% and 23.5%. An oxygen deficient
atmosphere is when oxygen is at or below 20.0%.
Oxygen in a confined space can drop below the
acceptable level due to consumption or displacement
of oxygen.
Slide 39
Slide 39
Oxygen deficiency can also be caused through
displacement by another gas, such as an inert gas
used for purging a space, such as helium, argon and
nitrogen. Carbon dioxide may also be used to purge
and occurs naturally in sewers, wells, pits, and tunnels.
Entrants must be aware of the process that was used
to clean and purge the confined space.

INFORMATION SHEET
When oxygen is displaced or consumed, and not

replaced, the oxygen can fall below acceptable levels.
It is very hazardous when oxygen in a confined
space is not replaced—breathing an oxygen deficient
atmosphere can make you unconscious with no
warning.
Oxygen displaced by nitrogen can cause immediate

collapse and death. Nitrogen is safe to breathe only
when mixed with the right amount of oxygen. Since
both gases are colorless and odorless, they pose an
immediate hazard unless oxygen measurements are
done and ventilation is adequately carried out.
When acceptable breathing air cannot be achieved

Never enter a confined space
without RPE when oxygen through efforts such as air movers and natural
levels are not within allowable ventilation, RPE (respiratory protection equipment)
limits.
is required.
Flammable Atmosphere
An atmosphere becomes flammable when the ratio
of oxygen to combustible material in the air is within
the flammability limits of the material. Flammable
gases such as acetylene, butane, propane, hydrogen,
methane, or vapors from liquid hydrocarbons can be
trapped in confined spaces.
Since many gases are heavier than air, they collect

in pits, sewers, and low spots in various types of
storage tanks and vessels. Lighter than air gases in
a closed top tank may rise and develop a flammable
concentration in an upper corner of the vessel or tank.
Even work procedures can generate flammable or

explosive conditions. For example, spray painting can
result in the release of flammable gases or vapors.

INFORMATION SHEET
Chemical reactions can form flammable atmospheres

when exposed to reactive chemicals, or when chemicals
combine with each other to form flammable gases.
This happens when dilute sulfuric acid reacts with iron
to form hydrogen or when calcium carbide makes
contact with water to form acetylene.
Another chemical reaction that forms a flammable

atmosphere is when deposits of pyrophoric substances
are found in tanks or pipelines in hydrocarbon service.
These flammable deposits can spontaneously ignite
when they become dry.
Toxic Atmospheres
Toxic atmospheres may result from hydrocarbon
residuals such as hydrogen sulfide or benzene—
commonly found in Saudi Aramco facilities. Toxic
atmospheres can also be caused by:
❏❏ Decomposing organic material from a tank or

sewer releases H2S.
❏❏ Specific operations performed in the confined

space such as welding or brazing with metals
capable of producing toxic fumes.
❏❏ Cleaning products used to prepare the confined

space for entry.
Poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) may build up in a

confined space. In welding operations, incomplete
combustion may occur and CO can form as a
byproduct.
Exhaust emissions from internal combustion engines

also produce CO. Do not place internal combustion
engines inside confined spaces or where their
exhaust gases could enter the space. Always place
this equipment downwind from confined space entry
and exit points and air mover intakes.

INFORMATION SHEET
Radioactive Material
Entry into a confined space where NORM (naturally
occurring radioactive material) is known or suspected
must be controlled by:
❏❏ Mechanically ventilating confined spaces such as

a vessel, column, or tank for at least four hours
prior to entry.
❏❏ Personnel and equipment exiting the confined

space must submit to a NORM contamination
survey.
❏❏ NORM-contaminated personnel or equipment

must be segregated and decontaminated.
Mercury
There are three different types of mercury:
Elemental mercury is an extremely heavy, odorless,

silver-colored liquid that when evaporated, become an
invisible, odorless, toxic vapor. Inhalation of elemental
mercury vapors is the main cause of toxicity. Mercury
is found in crude refining vessels.
Breathing in mercury vapor can cause chills, metallic

taste, mouth sores, swollen gums, nausea, vomiting,
abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, and weakness,
and confusion, shortness of breath, cough, chest
tightness, bronchitis, pneumonia, and kidney damage.
Inorganic mercury compounds or mercuric salts are

corrosive and damage the kidneys. Organic mercury
compounds are found in a many products. Organic
mercury can attack all body systems.

INFORMATION SHEET
Other Toxic Materials

Other toxic materials that may be inside a confined
space include chlorine, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric
acid, ammonia, sulfur dioxide, benzene, and carbon
tetrachloride.
External Hazards
Even though a confined space’s atmosphere may
test within acceptable limits, diesel or petrol fumes
nearby can move into the space by wind or fans.
These fumes may contain carbon monoxide. Other
toxic or flammable hazards can enter the space if
hydrocarbon or hazardous substance lines are opened
Slide 40
near the entry point. This includes product sampling
activities. Slide 40
Other external activities include loading and unloading

that can generate gases or vapors. These can enter
the confined space and overhead crane activity which
could lead to hazards from falling objects.
Hazards & Controls Measures

Slide 41
Hazards within a space often increase in number and

Slide 41
severity. Hazards that may be generated by work
should be identified, evaluated and controlled during
the preparation of the CSE plan and work permits.
Flammable Atmosphere
Flammable atmospheres in a confined space are very
hazardous. They can generate inside a confined space
due to the lack of air movement. A small spill or
release can generate an atmosphere that exceeds LEL
much more quickly than if the same event occurred
outside.

INFORMATION SHEET
To prevent a flammable atmosphere, never put or store

flammable or combustible materials or compressed gas
cylinders in a confined space. If a compressed gas
cylinder valve or hose leaks a flammable atmosphere
can result inside the space very quickly.
All confined spaces must be gas tested for flammable

and explosive gases and adequate oxygen levels or
presence of toxic gases. This is especially applicable
when tanks and columns must be entered for cleaning
or maintenance.
Fire Protection Equipment

Place fire extinguishers at the entry point of the
confined space. If the space is large enough, additional
fire extinguishers may be necessary inside the space
for immediate response to activities such as open
flame cutting or welding.
Ignition Sources
Always control or eliminate ignition sources in a
confined space. If ignition sources are from a cutting
torch, a hot work permit must be issued and periodic
gas tests performed. Fire extinguishers must be
available. Air movers and other electrical equipment
must be grounded to prevent static buildup.
Electrical Shock
All entrants must be protected from electrical shock.
Electrical equipment, including lighting and radios
must comply with the electrical classification of the
confined space in G.I. 6.008 and SAES-B-068. If the
space is within process equipment, or near combustible
or flammable materials (including residue), portable
Slide 42
Slide 42
INFORMATION SHEET
lighting must be not less than Class I, Zone 2 and

may not be used in the confined space without a hot
work permit per G.I. 2.100, except explosion proof
flashlights.
All equipment must be grounded, as static electricity

can ignite a flammable atmosphere inside the confined
space. Air movers can generate static electricity and
should be bonded to the vessel or tank.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)

You must only use GFCI on all electric equipment
inside a confined space regardless of the electrical
classification of the space. Electric tools must be
double-insulated or have a 3-prong plug. Equipment
and tools in an electrically classified area must be
approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Factory
Mutual (FM) or equivalent.
When electrical power cords are used inside a confined

space, ensure they are protected from sharp edges
and through entry points to prevent damage to the
power cords.
Loss of Power
There must be adequate lighting to safely enter,
exit and work inside a confined space. The lighting
must be on a separate circuit from other electrical
equipment and tools in the confined space. This is
to prevent potential overload of a circuit and losing
lighting inside the space.

INFORMATION SHEET
Control: Drain, Clean and Purge

As part of CSE preparation, the confined space must be
cleaned and decontaminated to the maximum extent
possible before entry. More frequent gas testing must
be taken when cleaning insulated, double-walled,
jacketed or lined piping and equipment to avoid
contamination from trapped materials.
Slide 43
Slide 43
If cleaning with chemicals, these may require
precautions. Precautions must also be taken to ensure
that air contaminants from adjacent processing or
chemical handling cannot enter the confined space.
Before entering a confined space with unknown

residual materials, samples of the materials must be
properly analyzed (including lab analysis) to determine
their hazards. Many hazards are due to byproduct
sludges, scales, fluids, gases, and other residues in
the confined space.

INFORMATION SHEET
Equipment that held flammable or other hazardous

fluids can be purged via an inert gas such as nitrogen.
However, inert gasses can create an oxygen deficient
atmosphere, or one with less than 20.0% oxygen.
Acceptable levels of oxygen in a confined space are
between 20.0% and 23.5%.
Slide 44
Slide 44
Confined spaces must be isolated, or made inoperable
A single closed valve or
by cutting off energy supplies. Piping connections double block and bleed are
to the space must be blinded, or disconnected and not acceptable methods of
isolation for confined space
blinded. entry.
Ventilation: Air Blowers, Air Movers and

Fans
You must use ventilation to improve atmosphere
conditions by supplying clean air into a confined
space or by exhausting contaminants, such as toxic
or flammable gases, out of the space. Air movers and
fans provide positive pressure ventilation and clean air
into the confined space. Removing air from the space
Slide 45
occurs primarily through leakage in the surrounding
structures and through open ports or manholes due Slide 45
to the generation of positive pressure in the space.
Air movers or cooling must be directed at the

immediate areas where entrants are working within
the confined space and continue until all entrants have
left the space. Where possible, mechanical ventilation
must provide air blowing into the bottom or lower
portion of the confined space and exhaust out the
top or upper portion of the space.
Fans and air movers must help remove airborne

contaminants such as painting or welding in confined
spaces. If the space is within process equipment or

INFORMATION SHEET
where combustible or flammable material may be

present, use air movers or fans during the entire
period of occupancy, even if gas testing indicates no
hazardous concentrations inside the space.
Always place blowers or air movers to minimize

Never use plant air or engine-
driven compressed air to the possibility of introducing air contaminants from
ventilate! adjacent equipment or generators.
All electrical equipment and other equipment capable

of producing static electricity, including air movers,
must be properly grounded and bonded to the vessel
or tank.
If mechanical ventilation cannot be provided, use

natural ventilation to bring in fresh air into a confined
space but only when there is no potential for a
hazardous atmosphere. Entries into open excavations
or structures or diked areas surrounding tanks are
examples using natural ventilation.
Welding, grit blasting and spray painting, etc., can

create a need for local exhaust. Local exhaust is where
fumes, vapor, mist or particulates are mechanically
drawn out of the confined space. The negative
pressure created in the space can be equalized by
openings in the space that allow fresh air to enter
and with air movers.

INFORMATION SHEET
Gas Testing
Only gas testers certified by Saudi Aramco per G.I.
2.709 can perform atmospheric gas tests.
Atmospheric testing must be conducted initially,

before entry, to measure toxic gases, oxygen levels, Slide 46
and flammability. Always perform initial gas testing Slide 46

before entry with all mechanical ventilation shut
down at least 15 minutes before testing. Initial data
will help to determine ventilation, PPE, respiratory
protection, and atmospheric monitoring.
Initial testing is conducted outside of an entry point

to sample air escaping from the space. Certain vapors
migrate toward the exterior of the space, towards
openings to the outside. Readings from outside tell
of conditions in the confined space.
Gas testers must approach an unknown space with

great caution, using monitors to determine whether
the space is giving off toxic or flammable gases with
high vapor pressure. Standing upwind of a space helps
to control exposure while gas testing.
Initial entry is prohibited if gas testing indicates an

oxygen deficiency or the presence of unacceptable
levels of flammable (LEL) or toxic gases, etc. in the
space. Only after venting with mechanical ventilation,
or cleanup has rendered the space free of hazardous
concentrations (as verified by gas testing inside the
confined space) is initial entry allowed. Only when a
space is verified safe to enter may a gas tester enter
a confined space for additional testing. The gas tester
must wear appropriate PPE including respiratory
protection (SCBA) as applicable.

INFORMATION SHEET
The work permit Gas test Information table indicates

the acceptable atmospheric work conditions and any
necessary PPE or approvals that are required based
on the gas test results of the job site.
Conduct additional toxic gas testing for all work

locations where other toxic gases or vapors may be
present.
Examples of other toxic gases include carbon dioxide

(CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), chlorine (Cl2), ammonia
(NH3), hydrogen chloride (HCI), and mercury vapor
(Hg).
Atmospheric Monitoring
Atmospheric gas testing within confined spaces must
include, but not be limited to, testing for:
Slide 47
Slide 47

INFORMATION SHEET
❏❏ oxygen
❏❏ flammable mixtures (Lower Explosive Limit: LEL)
❏❏ carbon monoxide for all confined space entry

activities
❏❏ toxic gases such as H2S.
❏❏ gas monitor requires a minimum of 16.0% oxygen

to properly detect the presence of flammable or
combustible gases (LEL).
Atmospheric gas testing is required at all locations

where injury to personnel or damage to property
could occur due to the presence of combustible gases,
toxic gases, or oxygen enriched/deficient atmospheres.
Atmospheric gas testing shall be performed, but not
be limited to the following work activities/situations:
Oxygen (O2) testing shall be conducted for:
❏❏ All confined space entry activities.
❏❏ All areas which may have a potential for an

oxygen deficient or enriched atmosphere.
Combustible Gas testing (i.e., LEL) shall be conducted

for:
❏❏ All confined space entry activities.
❏❏ All hot work in restricted areas, as defined in

GI 2.100.
❏❏ All work locations where combustible gases are

or may be present.

INFORMATION SHEET
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas testing shall be conducted

for:
❏❏ All confined space entry activities where H2S

may be present.
❏❏ Jobs in areas where sour crude/gas is produced,

transported, stored or processed and where
proponent organizations determine that H2S gas
testing is necessary.
❏❏ Jobs in close proximity to sewage treatment

plants and sewer lift stations.
❏❏ All work locations where H2S monitoring is

required for work or operational purposes.
Carbon monoxide (CO) gas testing shall be conducted

for all confined space entry activities.
Atmospheric gas tests shall be performed and

immediately recorded according to the following
schedule:
❏❏ Prior to entry.
❏❏ After breaks or other interruptions in the work.
❏❏ When there is any reason to believe that

conditions inside the confined space have
changed.
At periodic intervals (e.g., every 2 hours) as necessary

to determine whether acceptable atmospheric
conditions are being maintained during the course
of the confined space entry.
Continuous gas testing, such as by use of personal

gas monitors, shall be used if the atmosphere inside
the confined space is subject to change or if work
activities involve combustion such as welding or
torch cutting. Hot work shall not be permitted if the
atmosphere is above 0% of the LEL.

INFORMATION SHEET
Whenever a hazardous atmosphere is detected, the

confined space shall be evacuated of all personnel
until corrective actions have been taken and the
space has been verified by the CSE supervisor as safe
for re-entry.
CSE Gas Testing Limits

You must always refer to the Gas Testing Information
Table on the work permit forms or current GIs for
the confined space entry limits.
Atmospheric gas testing must be conducted by a

certified Gas tester using only Gas monitor equipment
in accordance with GI 2.709 requirements prior to
initiating work activities in confined space.
No atmosphere-supplying respirator is required if:
❏❏ Oxygen (O2) concentration is at or above 20.0%

and less than or equal to 23.5%.
❏❏ Flammable/combustible mixtures are less than

5% of the LEL.
❏❏ Carbon Monoxide (CO) is less than 35 parts per

million (ppm).
❏❏ Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is less than 10 ppm.
❏❏ Other potential toxic gas concentrations are at

or below their threshold limit value (TLV).
An atmosphere-supplying respirator shall be

continuously worn if:
❏❏ O2 concentration is less than 20.0%.
❏❏ Flammable/combustible mixtures are at or above

5% and less than 10% of the LEL.
❏❏ CO concentration is at or above 35 ppm and

less than 1000 ppm.

INFORMATION SHEET
❏❏ H2S concentration is at or above 10 ppm and

less than 100 ppm.
❏❏ Other potential toxic gas concentrations are

above their designated TLV and at or below
their IDLH level.
Confined space entry is not permitted if the

atmosphere is
❏❏ at or above 10% LEL
❏❏ H2S concentration is at or above 100 ppm
❏❏ CO concentration is at or above 1,000 ppm

Slide 48
Slide 48
❏❏ O2 concentration is above 23.5 %
Hot work is not permitted if
the atmosphere is above 0% ❏❏ Other potential toxic gas concentrations are
LEL. above their IDLH level
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Confined spaces are typically hazardous work spaces
that require PPE for entrants. In addition to minimizing
exposure to a hazard, PPE must be considered to
permit workers to move within the confined space,
to operate equipment, and exit the space quickly in
the event of an emergency.
Slide 49
Slide 49
INFORMATION SHEET
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and

Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus (SABA) are normally
required when the atmosphere within a confined
space cannot be cleaned or purged to an acceptable
condition for entry. SCBA is a respirator that provides
clean air from a high pressure cylinder carried on the
worker’s back. SCBA’s are equipped with a full face
piece and provide the maximum degree of protection
available from airborne contaminants.
SABA provides breathing air from a stationary source

such as a compressor or compressed air cylinders.
Breathing air in all cases must be high quality and
meet regulatory specifications.
A cartridge respirator is normally required when

the atmosphere in a confined space can be made
breathable when filtered. This respirator is an air-
purifying respirator, which forces contaminated
air through a filtering cartridge when the worker
inhales. These respirators can be half or full face
piece, and provide protection against different kinds
of contaminants in the air depending on the type of
cartridge fitted to the respirator.
FRC (fire resistant clothing) is required in areas with

flammable atmospheres or the potential for fire. FRC
coveralls protect the worker in case of fire.
A hard hat is required in most industrial areas with a

potential for falling objects. Hard hats are designed
to protect the head from injury by falling objects,
impact with other objects, debris, bad weather, and
electric shock. Inside the helmet is a suspension system
that spreads the force from an impact over the top
of the head.

INFORMATION SHEET
Eye and face protection is required for any job

when flying hazards can impact the face or eyes.
Eye protection includes safety goggle and glasses,
and face protection includes a full face shield. Work
tasks that require eye and face protection include
grinding, hammering, and working with chemicals
that can splash towards the face.
Hearing protection is required in excessively noisy

work areas such as process areas and areas with
heavy equipment. Hearing protection includes ear
plugs and ear muffs, which are rated for the level
of noise hazard of the area.
Safety shoes with steel inserts protect the toes from

falling objects. Certain safety shoes also feature special
protectors for the top of the foot and slip reduction
treads. Safety shoes are required in most industrial
areas and construction sites.
Gloves are designed to protect the hands from

numerous job task hazards including cuts and
abrasions, excessive temperatures, and exposure
to chemicals. Gloves are designed based on hand
protection needs and can be made from materials
including leather, rubber, and cotton.
A full body harness with lanyard is a personal fall

protection device worn by workers who perform job
tasks at unprotected heights of 1.8 meters (6 ft.) or
higher. The harness is worn on the body and attached
to a sturdy anchor point, thereby preventing a fall to
the level below. Harness also support confined space
rescue efforts.

INFORMATION SHEET
CS Entry
Issuance of the CSE permit signals that work can begin.
All affected workers must adhere to the conditions
of the permit and follow the CSE plan. Regarding
entry in to the space, the following action items are
common to CSE jobs: Slide 50
Slide 50
Only authorized personnel are permitted to enter

the confined space.
Entrants are accounted for by signing the log sheet

upon entering and exiting the confined space.
Atmospheric tests are conducted periodically while

personnel are in the confined space to ensure a safe
working environment.
Continuous monitoring must be conducted when

atmospheric conditions are subject to change.
Entrants to a process-related confined space or where

movement is inhibited or difficult shall be given
breaks as needed and allowed to rest outside in an
open area.
The CSE supervisor shall arrange rest breaks to

minimize fatigue.
If the CSE is suspended, for example during a break,

the entry must be barricaded and a “No Entry” sign
must be posted.

INFORMATION SHEET
Communication
Communication between entrants and workers outside
of the space is important, especially to monitor job
safety or to call for an emergency egress. A worker
in distress must be able to summon help immediately.
Slide 51 Whenever feasible, workers must be directly observed
from outside of the space, and utilize direct means
Slide 51
of communication through face to face, verbal or
hand signals.
Standby workers must be very diligent when

monitoring entrants. Certain body positions that are
assumed by an entrant can make it difficult for the
standby person to visually detect an unconscious
worker. When visual monitoring of the worker is not
possible due to the configuration of the confined
space two-way radios are often employed.
Standby men shall be provided with adequate means

of communication, such as a two-way radio, to ensure
continuous communication with entrants and with the
CSE Supervisor and emergency response personnel. The
standby man shall maintain two-way communication
with entrants to monitor their status and alert the
entrants of a need to evacuate the confined space.
Personnel entering or exiting a confined space must
sign an entry log.
The OATH Method for Rope communication system.
Rope signals
OATH Method
❏❏ 1 tug = Ok. Can be to ask if OK and to answer
❏❏ 2 tugs = Advance. ie give me rope
❏❏ 3 tugs = Take up rope. I'm coming back
❏❏ 4 tugs = Help.
INFORMATION SHEET
This method is very useful in loud environments (e.g.,

during grit-blasting operations inside a tank/vessel),
where verbal communications is difficult and there is
an inability to remain in visual contact with entrants,
etc. It should be noted that rope-communication
techniques can result in an additional hazard if the
configuration inside the space can result in the rope
becoming tangled/caught. In places without these
constraints, two way radios have now replaced these
systems.
CSE Entry Log

Personnel entering or exiting a confined space must
sign an entry log. In case of an emergency, the log is
used to account for all entrants. This is the Confined
Space Entry Log reprinted from the Saudi Aramco
Construction Safety Manual, Section 6 Confined
Spaces.
Slide 52
Slide 52

INFORMATION SHEET
Stop Work
Who has the authority to STOP work?
How do you safely exit a confined space?
Slide 53
What are the precautions to take when you re-enter
Slide 53 a confined space?
What are the requirements for atmospheric testing?

How are they different from first time entry test?
Notes: Anytime hazardous conditions develop or a CSE job

becomes unsafe the work must be immediately stopped and
the entrants ordered out of the space. Hazardous conditions
can include development of an unsafe atmosphere, safety
incident within the space, or an evacuation procedure or
other emergency signaled outside of the confined space.
If standby man must leave the area and no relief confined
space standby man is provided, the confined space must be
evacuated.
In the CASE of an emergency, the CSE supervisor

shall terminate all confined space entry activities and
cancel work permits. When an entry is suspended for
any reason, the CSE supervisor must ensure the entry
point is barricaded and a “NO ENTRY” sign is posted.
After longer work stoppages, such as an emergency

or end of the work day, atmospheric gas testing must
be conducted as prior to initial entry with ventilation
turned off.

INFORMATION SHEET
Emergency Response
This course trains on how to get HELP if and when a
need arises. You may cause more harm than good if
you try the rescue operation without proper training
and equipment.
Slide 54
CSE jobs require preparations for emergency response. Slide 54

The CSE plan must include a rescue plan for entrants This course does not teach
confined space resuce.
who become unable to exit a confined space under
their own power. The plan must provide details on
rescue procedures specific to the confined space
being entered and required equipment. The rescue
equipment and rescue workers must be verified by
the CSE Supervisor prior to approving the entry.
The standby man and all rescue workers must

be trained and qualified for their jobs including
participation in emergency practice drills. Only trained
and qualified rescue workers should attempt a CSE
rescue. Many fatalities from confined space incidents
can be attributed to a person attempting to rescue
an individual from inside a confined space without
authority or training to do so.
Atmosphere During a Rescue Situation

In the event of a confined space rescue, the confined
space atmosphere shall be considered Immediately
Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) and Self Contained
Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) or supplied air respirator
with an emergency escape cylinder should be used
by all rescue workers entering the space.
Slide 55
In a CS emergency, the standby man must immediately Slide 55
notify proper personnel, including the CSE supervisor

and the emergency response team. The CSE plan and
work permits should provide notification procedures.

INFORMATION SHEET
The availability of this rescue equipment and team

should be verified by the CSE Supervisor prior to
approving the entry.
The proponent’s department emergency response

plan (or contractor’s emergency response plan for
grassroots projects) must include a pre-incident action
plan for emergency situations related to confined
space entry.
The Standby man and all rescue personnel should

Never attempt a rescue unless
be aware of the structural design of the space,
you are trained and equipped
to properly perform a rescue! emergency exit procedures, including entrant retrieval
requirements, and life support systems required.
Training and drills in confined space rescue and
emergency procedures must be provided for confined
space Standby men, rescue personnel, and entrants.
It is normal for a human to try and save others who

may be in danger, especially if they are friends, co-
workers or associates.
The majority of fatalities from confined space incidents

can be attributed to a person attempting to rescue
an individual from inside a confined space. 60% of
confined space fatalities are personnel attempting
to rescue an entrant. These include Standby men,
additional facility personnel, and emergency rescue
team members. Why? Because they did not properly
apply controls to protect themselves prior to entering
the space when attempting a rescue.
The Confined Space Entry Plan should include details

on rescue procedures specific to the confined space
being entered. This means that equipment, procedures
and techniques used are configuration and site-
specific.

INFORMATION SHEET
CS Restoration (Handover)
When the work has been completed and the confined
space is ready to be returned to service, use a pre-
prepared Operation checklist to restore it. In addition
to the items on the checklist, ensure that:
Slide 56
Slide 56
❏❏ All personnel have safely exited the confined
space.
❏❏ All tools and equipment have been removed.
❏❏ All man-ways and flanges are closed and sealed.
❏❏ All vessels and relief valves have been restored

to their operating condition.
❏❏ All blinds have been removed using the blind

list as required by GI 6.012 Isolation, Lockout
and Use of Hold Tags. Discuss with participants
as you go through the slide.

INFORMATION SHEET
EXERCISE D
answer(s).
1. Select the correct statement when LEL equal to

Slide 57
or greater than 10%?
Slide 57
a. No Entry is permitted
b. Permitted only while continuously wearing

an SCBA. Division Head must countersign
c. Permitted without an atmosphere-supplying

respirator
d. All entries permitted
2. An LEL concentration of less than 5% allows

what type of work?
a. Permitted to perform Cold Work and

Confined space entry allowed
b. Permitted to perform Hot Work and

Confined Space entry
c. Not permitted to perform any work and

no entry into Confined Space is allowed
d. Not permitted to enter into Confined Space

INFORMATION SHEET
3. When CO concentration is greater than 35

ppm but less than 1000 ppm, select the correct
statement from the following list.
a. Allowed to perform Work and Confined

Space entry with SCBA allowed with Division
Head approval
b. Confined space entry and Cold work only

is allowed
c. Allowed to perform any work and no SCBA

required below 1000 ppm
d. Not allowed to perform any work and no

entry permitted above 35 ppm with or
without SCBA
4. Rescues from a confined space can only be done

by?
a. The Confined Space Entry Supervisor
b. The Craft Foreman
c. The Standby Man
d. A Trained Rescue Team
5. The Standby Man must have and ensure all

entrants sign the CSE for all
a. Air mover
b. Vacuum truck
c. Entry log
d. Training plan

INFORMATION SHEET
6. Ignition sources must be eliminated or controlled

in a confined space, if they are present (e.g.,
torch cutting) you must ensure:
a. Periodic gas Tests are performed
b. Fire protection equipment are present and

a fire watch
c. Air movers and other electrical equipment

are grounded to prevent static buildup
d. All the answers
7. Confined space entry is not permitted if the

atmosphere is:
a. at or above 10% LEL
b. H2S concentration is at or above 100 ppm
c. CO concentration is at or above 1,000 ppm
d. O2 concentration is above 23.5 %
e. All the answers
8. Select the correct statement when LEL equal to

or greater than 10%?
a. No Entry are permitted
b. Permitted only while continuously wearing

an SCBA. Division Head must countersign
c. Permitted without an atmosphere-supplying

respirator
d. All entries permitted

INFORMATION SHEET
9. Rescues from a confined space can only be done

by?
a. The Confined space Entry Supervisor
b. The Craft Foreman
c. The Standby Man
d. A Trained Rescue Team
10. The Standby Man must have and ensure all

entrants sign the CSE for all
a. Air mover
b. Vacuum truck
c. Entry log
d. Training plan
11. Communication between Entrants and Standby

Man is important but when verbal, face to face
of direct visual contact is not possible what are
other means of communication?
a. Two way Radio
b. Hand Signal
c. Rope communication OATH method
d. All the answers

INFORMATION SHEET
12. Ignition sources must be eliminated or controlled

in a confined space, if they are present (e.g.,
torch cutting) you must ensure:
a. Periodic gas Tests are performed
b. Fire protection equipment are present and

a fire watch
c. Air movers and other electrical equipment

are grounded to prevent static buildup
d. All the answers
13. Confined space entry is not permitted if the

atmosphere is:
a. at or above 10% LEL
b. H2S concentration is at or above 100 ppm
c. CO concentration is at or above 1,000 ppm
d. O2 concentration is above 23.5 %
e. All the answers

INFORMATION SHEET
SUMMARY
When work requires an entry into a confined space,
CSE procedures apply and a CSE work permit must be
issued by a certified Work Permit Issuer to a certified
Work Permit receiver before work can begin.
Slide 58
Confined space procedures are addressed in greater Slide 58
details in the Saudi Aramco Construction Safety

Manual.
Confined space entry permits procedures and

requirements are addressed in G.I. 2.100 Work Permit
System and GI 2.709 Gas testing.
The CSE Supervisor is responsible for virtually all

aspects of a confined space entry job. He has an active
Role in hazard identification and control and all the
documentation. The CSE Supervisor oversees entry
operations and calls for terminating entry as required,
such as when job conditions change or an emergency
arises. CSE supervisors must be able to provide the
onsite guidance, monitoring and supervision of the
CSE program. You must always ensure that all entrants
and standby Men are properly, fit, trained and briefed
on their roles.
CSE jobs require a plan and preparations for emergency

response. The CSE plan must include a rescue plan with
details on rescue procedures specific to the confined
space being entered and required equipment. The
rescue equipment and rescue workers must be verified
by the CSE Supervisor prior to approving the entry. In
addition, drills on confined space emergency scenarios
should be conducted on a regular basis.

INFORMATION SHEET
Slide 59
CONCLUSION
Course objectives review
With confined spaces, remember:
❏❏ Always follow the CSE Permit process

Slide 59
❏❏ Take the necessary precautions
❏❏ Things change very quickly when you are in a

confined space
❏❏ Never attempt a rescue (unless you are trained

and equipped)
❏❏ Do not become the next ‘victim’.
Review Activity and Case Study
Additional material for Confined Space entry review.
To use depending on class size and time left available

for review.

INFORMATION SHEET
CASE STUDIES
Activity Incident Review

Each bullet point is hyperlinked to incident activity
slides. Clicking on 'forward' action button will take
you to a Summary slide.
Divide the class into equal groups; each group to

complete an incident activity. Have groups discuss
what went wrong, find the hazards, and list controls
to prevent recurrence.

INFORMATION SHEET
INCIDENT 1
Slide Note: Contractor crews were sand blasting and
painting a water tower. A worker was spray painting
the inside of the riser of the tower. He was standing
on a fixed ladder 40 feet above the riser floor without
wearing any fall protection gear. Apparently he
slipped and fell through an opening in the floor of
the riser onto a standpipe. Worker suffered a broken
back and injuries to his head. Worker involved in
incident was 24 years old and had more than 3 years
of experience doing this type of job. He was assigned
to the project 3 months ago.
Split the class into groups of 3-4. Have them discuss

the details of this incident among the group. Identify
hazards and what controls were/should have been in
place. Give them 10 minutes to discuss the incident
and document their finding before one of them
presents to the group.
You could consider different incidents for each group

so the class gets to see more than one.
Instructor must request that each group identify the

hazards for this scenario and required controls. In
addition have each team identify which control was
the primary or immediate cause that resulted in this
incident.
Hazards
❏❏ Low oxygen
❏❏ Respiratory hazard associated with grit and scale
❏❏ High LEL
❏❏ Working at elevation
❏❏ Ignition source (i.e. grit blasting)

INFORMATION SHEET
Controls
❏❏ Continuous air monitoring for O2 and LEL
❏❏ Continuous ventilation of space
❏❏ Scaffolding/fall protection
❏❏ Grounding of grit blasting equipment
❏❏ Training
❏❏ PPE
❏❏ Planning
❏❏ Administrative i.e. confined space entry permit,

procedures etc.
The Primary/Immediate Cause

Fall and lack of correct fall protection gear. There may
have been other contributory factors such atmospheric
conditions, fatigue, work surface, exposure to
hazardous materials but these cannot be confirmed
for this case study. The message is to identify all
hazards and implement and follow all controls.

INFORMATION SHEET
INCIDENT – 2
Incident 2 activity.
A welder entered a steel pipe (24 inch diameter) to

grind a bad weld at a valve about 30 feet from the
entry point. The pipe had been purged with nitrogen.
Before he entered, other crew members decided to
add oxygen to the pipe near the bad weld. He had
been grinding intermittently for about five minutes
when a fire broke out enveloping his clothing. A
second crew member pulled him 30 feet to the pipe
entrance and extinguished the fire. However, the
welder died the next day from his burns.
Split the class into groups of 3-4 and have them

individually discuss the details of this incident. Identify
hazards and what controls were or should have
been in place. Give them 10 minutes to discuss the
incident and document their finding before one of
them presents to the class.


hazards and required controls for this scenario. In
incident.
Hazards
❏❏ Low oxygen from nitrogen purge.
❏❏ High O2 as they injected oxygen into the area

of the hot work.

INFORMATION SHEET
❏❏ Existing toxic and flammable hazards of residual

material.
❏❏ Ignition source (i.e. grinding and welding).
❏❏ Engulfment from product entering the pipeline

due to incomplete isolation.
❏❏ Noise from tools and activity, i.e. grinding.
Controls
❏❏ Continuous air monitoring for O2 and CO
❏❏ Continuous ventilation of space
❏❏ Grounding of welding leads
❏❏ Training
❏❏ PPE i.e. FRC, Welding helmet and face shield,

basic
❏❏ Planning

procedures etc

Elevated oxygen levels leading to oxygen enriched
environment and resulting fire as a result of the
addition of oxygen to the pipe near the bad weld
and lack of correct air monitoring.
There are other contributory factors such inadequate

confined space entry procedures, lack of fire
protection equipment, lack of communication/rescue
arrangements and training. The message is to identify
all hazards and implement and follow all controls.

INFORMATION SHEET
INCIDENT – 3
Incident 3 activity
A team of 6 employees were assigned to conduct a

boring and jacking job inside a 21 feet deep manhole.
An employee with very little experience on this type
of a job was lowered approximately 17 feet into the
manhole sitting in a looped chain. Twenty seconds
later he started gasping for air and fell from the
chain seat face down into the accumulated water at
the bottom of the manhole. An autopsy determined
oxygen deficiency as the cause of death.

individually discuss the details of this incident. Identify
hazards and what controls were or should have
been in place. Give them 10 minutes to discuss the
incident and document their finding before one of
them presents to the class.


incident.
Hazards
❏❏ Atmospheric hazards such low oxygen, toxic
gases such as methane, H2S etc
❏❏ Engulfment from accumulated water at the

bottom of the manhole

INFORMATION SHEET
❏❏ Falls from height
❏❏ Limited entry capabilities
❏❏ Inexperience
Controls
❏❏ Air monitoring of entire space prior to entry
❏❏ Continuous ventilation of space or suitable SCBA/

SABA provided
❏❏ Correct entry/exit and rescue equipment
❏❏ Training
❏❏ PPE
❏❏ Fall protection, rescue line, harness and tripod.
❏❏ Planning

procedures etc.

Unsafe atmospheric conditions resulted in a fall from
height as a result of inadequate confined space
entry system. Some of the contributors included air
monitoring, training, permit, access arrangements
and equipment.
There are other contributory factors such as

inadequate training, inexperience worker and lack of
communication or rescue arrangements. The message
is to identify all hazards and implement and follow
all controls.

INFORMATION SHEET
INCIDENT – 4
Five contractor laborers were trying to open a sewer
line blockage from the manhole, when one of them
became unconscious and fell down into the manhole.
Two others went down to rescue the first victim and
both of them also fell unconscious. The fourth laborer
reported the incident to Industrial Security (ISO).
ISO, SAMSO, Fire Protection and LPD responded to

the incident. Three dead bodies were retrieved.

individually discuss the details of this incident, identify
hazards and what controls were/should have been in
place. Give them 10 minutes to discuss the incident
and document their finding before one of them
presents to the class.


incident. This is a real case local incident that took
place in KSA.
Hazards
❏❏ Atmospheric hazards such low oxygen, toxic
gases such as methane, H2S etc
❏❏ Engulfment from accumulated water/sewage in

the manhole
❏❏ Falls from height
❏❏ Limited entry capabilities

INFORMATION SHEET
Controls
❏❏ Air monitoring of entire space prior to entry
❏❏ Continuous ventilation of space or suitable SCBA/

SABA provided
❏❏ Correct entry/exit and rescue equipment
❏❏ Emergency arrangements (notification and

response procedures)
❏❏ Training
❏❏ PPE
❏❏ Fall protection
❏❏ Planning

procedures etc.

The immediate cause of these contractor fatalities
was determined to be exposure to toxic sewer gases.
Unsafe atmospheric conditions, monitoring, lack of

Standby Man and failing to follow appropriate actions
(entering the confined space to carry out rescue)
contributed to his incident. Inadequate confined space
entry system. Some of the other contributors included
air monitoring, training, permit, access arrangements
and equipment.
There are other contributory factors such as

inadequate training, inexperience worker, and lack
of communication/rescue arrangements. The message
is to identify all hazards and implement and follow
all controls.

GLOSSARY
Asphyxiant Gas Test

A vapor or gas which can cause Analysis, using a company-approved
unconsciousness or death by suffocation gas monitoring instrument, of an
(lack of oxygen). atmospheric sample to determine the
concentration of oxygen, and presence
Barrier of combustible or toxic gases.
Something such as a fence or natural
obstacle that prevents or blocks Hazard Analysis
movement from one place to another. An assessment of work activity
conducted during the joint site
Compressed inspection before the work is started.
Something pressed or squeezed so It is performed by the work permit
that it is smaller or fills less space. issuer (or his designated representative)
and the receiver.
Contaminant
Something that contaminates. Hazardous Atmosphere
An atmosphere in which workers
Deficient are exposed to the risk of death,
Not having enough of something that injury, incapacitation or illness.
is important or necessary.
Hydrocarbon
Ergonomic A naturally occurring organic
The way things are designed and matter containing only carbon and
arranged to make them easier for people hydrogen and often occurring in
to use. petroleum, natural gas, coal, and
bitumens.
Flammable
A material that can easily catch fire Ionize
under normal conditions, a simple spark To become positively or negatively
may be enough to ignite the material. charged due to transfer of electrons.
Isolate
To separate and remove from service
by closing valves upstream and
downstream.

GLOSSARY
Joint Site Inspection

An inspection conducted by the work
permit issuer (or his designated
representative) and the receiver, to
conduct a job site hazard analysis,
perform necessary gas tests and review
the conditions.
LEL (Lower Explosive Limit)

The minimum concentration at
which a gas will explode. A common
unit of measurement is a percent of the
LEL.
PPM (Part Per Million)

A unit of measurement used for
small portions or concentrations of
gases. This term literally means one part
out of one million possible parts.
Suffocate
To die because you are unable to
breathe.
Toxic
Poisonous.
Trench
A long, narrow hole that is dug in
the ground.
Unconscious
Not awake because of medication
or an injury to the head.

Confined Space
Entry
Appendix
• Handouts
Appendix
Appendix 1
Appendix 1

page 1 of 3
Appendix
Appendix 2
Appendix 2

page 2 of 3
Appendix
CONFINED SPACE ENTRY CHECKLIST

Complete this form in English and write clearly. Use ink pen, not pencil.
Vessel/Equipment/Confined Space ID: ....................................................... Entry Date: ........................................
No. Requirement Yes N/A
1 Confined space entry plan provided and available
2 Area barricaded and has warning signs posted
3 Electrical sources isolated
4 Process piping/equipment isolated
5 Hydraulic/pneumatic and other energy sources isolated
6 Lockout and hold tag procedures followed
7 Hot/cold work permit completed
8 Confined space entry permit completed
9 Atmosphere tested for % oxygen (O2)
10 Atmosphere tested for % LEL
11 Atmosphere tested for hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
12 Atmosphere tested for carbon monoxide (e.g., CO)
13 Atmosphere tested for other gases (e.g., SO2), identify:
14 Gases/chemicals purged, flushed, vented
15 Continuous gas testing performed
16 Mechanical ventilation provided
17 Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) provided and used
18 Appropriate respirator(s) (e.g., SCBAs) provided and used
19 Full-body harness provided and used by each entrant
20 Appropriate lighting equipment provided
21 Rescue service notified of confined space entry operations
22 Rescue equipment (e.g., hoist) available
23 Fire extinguisher(s) available at designated entry points
24 Standby man continuously present during confined space entry
25 Standby man has necessary PPE
26 Communications equipment for standby man and entrants provided
27 Entry log sheet available at designated entry points and used
Issuer Name: .................................... Badge No.: .................................... Signature: ...................................... Date: ........................... Time: .........................
Receiver Name: .................................... Badge No.: .................................... Signature: ...................................... Date: ........................... Time: .........................
Note: This checklist does not replace the mandatory Hazard Analysis Checklist that is part of the confined space entry permit issuance process, as
required by GI 2.100, Work Permit System. This checklist may be used to verify that all required aspects of the confined space entry plan have been
implemented prior to beginning the work. If used, all answers must be either “Yes” or “N/A” before allowing entry into the confined space, and the
completed checklist shall remain with the Confined Space Standby Man on site.
Appendix 3
Appendix 3

page 3 of 3

Confined Space Entry: Trainee Handbook

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Confined Space Entry: Trainee Handbook

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Trainee Handbook

Job Skills Curriculum & Testing Unit

Confined Space Entry

Enabling Objectives Terminal Objective

confined space entry procedures and follow all safety

In this course you will learn the definition of a confined Slide 3

space and the minimum site safety requirements Slide 3

Slide 4 CSB Video

PART I OBJECTIVE 1.1

Define and Identify Confined Space Entry

Slide 5 What is a Confined Space?

Slide 6 Many workplaces contain spaces that are confined

In general, when a structure or space has a single

What is Confined Space Entry?

A confined space entry is when anyone puts any part

When work tasks require you to enter into a confined

2 May 2016 Confined Space Entry

Examples of Confined Spaces

Confined spaces are not designed for human

Certain confined spaces may be designed for

A confined space may not necessarily be enclosed on

Trenches and other excavations that are 1.2 m (4 ft.)

A space may become a confined space due to the

Confined Space Entry May 2016 3

For example, spray painting in an enclosed room can

Un- or poorly ventilated spaces, storage areas, and

4 May 2016 Confined Space Entry

1. An excavated trench deeper than feet

2. A confined space has restricted and

a. entry and exit

b. leaving and escape

c. exit and egress

d. leaving and exit

3. Which of the following are considered to be

Confined Space Entry May 2016 5

4. Which of the following describes a confined

b. Limited natural ventilation

c. Not design for human occupancy and limited

d. All the answers

5. The atmosphere of a confined space is

a. 20% and 23.5%

b. 19.5% and 22%

c. 19% and 22%

d. 20% and 21%

6. Which of the following hazards can be found

d. All the answers

6 May 2016 Confined Space Entry

7. Which hazardous atmosphere can be found in

a. Asphyxiating atmospheres (suffocation)

c. Flammable atmospheres (LEL)

d. All the answers

8. Exhaust diesel or petrol fumes near a confined

9. The air temperature in a confined space is not

Confined Space Entry May 2016 7

PART II OBJECTIVE 1.2

State the Requirements of the Confined Space Entry

Slide 10 The Confined Space Entry Program

LOCAL CSE PROGRAMS MUST INCLUDE

o identifying all confined spaces within your or your

o potential hazards associated with work performed

o requirements for developing a confined space

o training and qualification requirements for

o procedures for rescue of personnel from a