Confined Space Entry Training

Level 1 – Worker
 INDEX

 Introduction
 Health and safety statistics
 Confined space - Definition, identification and classification criteria
 Risk related to confined space work
 Hazardous substances and atmospheres
 Control measures for confined space work
 Roles & Responsibilities
 Confined space rescue
Life Saving Rules - In line with BP Golden Rules
Life Saving Rules – Confined Space Video

4
 HEALTH AND SAFETY STATISTICS
CASE REPORT OF FATALITIES IN CONFINED SPACES
Indonesia – April 2011 - Multiple Fatality
Halliburton Coil Tubing Unit (CTU) operator fell into a water tank that contained water
mixed with nitrogen from displacement of coil tubing before unloading Mutiara – 135
well. In attempt to rescue 3 co-workers entered the same tank. Rigless Supervisor
intervened ordering to drain the tank and asked two personnel to enter the tank to
rescue the 4 personnel by using rope (safety line). Three of the rescued personnel were
found dead, the other one after first aid treatment was evacuated to nearby hospital for
-
further treatment.
Malaysia - January 2010 – Welder killed in gas tank explosion
A gas tank exploded during hot metal work at Felda's Chalk Palm Oil Mill in Setiu,
Terengganu, on Monday, killing 1 worker who fell into the tank and injuring 2 others.
The tank is located 13 metres above ground and some 600 metres from the plant
entrance.
Indonesia – August 2009 - Quadruple fatality in sugar works machine accident
Machinery was unwittingly activated during cleaning work at PT Dharmapala Usaha
Sikses sugar works in Cilacap, central Java, which caused 4 fatalities to workers who
were removing residual sugar from a process cylinder when the turbine activated.
 HEALTH AND SAFETY STATISTICS
LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH IN CONFINED SPACE FATALITIES

Incidental event
10%
Poisoning
37%

Asphyxiation
41%
Drowning
12%
SOURCE: NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
 HEALTH AND SAFETY STATISTICS
ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS RELATED TO CONFINED SPACE FATALITIES

Not Specified Oxygen Deficiency

21% 16%

Hydrogen Sulfide
14%
Other
17%
Methane
Carbon Monoxide 10%
7%
Sewer Gases Inert Gases
7% 8%

SOURCE: NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH

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 HEALTH AND SAFETY STATISTICS
TYPE OF TRAINING RECEIVED BY VICTIM

Classroom (Safety)
19%
No Training
34%
Specific Training
(Confined Space)
6%

The NIOSH estimates that

more than 60% of confined
space fatalities occur among
those who attempt the
On The Job (Safety) rescue.
41%

SOURCE: NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH

 CONFINED SPACES

What are confined spaces?

 CONFINED SPACES
DEFINITION

Confined space can be defined as any space that has following

characteristics:
 It is large enough or so configured that an employee can bodily
enter and perform assigned work;
 It has limited or restricted means for entry or exit; and
 It is not designed for continuous employee occupancy
 It has limited of air circulation and / or potential of oxygen
deficiency
 CONFINED SPACES
EXAMPLES OF CONFINED SPACES
 Tanks  Pits
 Vessels  Sumps
 Silos  Manholes
 Truck tanks  Tunnels
 Rail cars  Equipment housings
 Excavations  Ductwork
 Bell holes  Pipelines
 Vaults  Sewers
 Valve boxes  Excavations (*)
(*) Any excavation/ trench greater than 1.2 meter depth
shall be classified as a confined space if the elements as
defined in the confined space definition are present. If
declared a confined space all requirements for confined
space shall be adhered to.
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS

HAZARDS CS RISKS

OXYGEN DEFICIENCY  ASPHYXIATION OX

FLAMMABLE SUBSTANCES  NITROGEN

OXYGEN ENRICHMENT  FIRE EX

TOXIC GAS, FUME OR VAPOUR  EXPLOSION EX

 Ingress or presence of liquids
 POISONING TOX
 Solid materials which can flow
 Drowning
 Excessive heat
 Loss of consciousness
 Other hazards not specific to confined
spaces (e.g. electricity, noise, etc …)  Engulfment
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 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
ASPHYXIATION
OX
DEFINITION AND CAUSES
Pathological changes caused by lack of oxygen in respired air,
resulting in a deficiency of oxygen in the blood (hypoxia) and
an increase in carbon dioxide in the blood and tissues
(hypercapnia).
Some common causes are drowning, electric shock, hanging,
suffocation, lodging of a foreign body in the air passages,
inhalation of smoke and poisonous gases, and trauma to or
disease of the lungs or air passages.

SYMPTOMS OF ASPHYXIATION
Symptoms include irregular and disturbed respirations, or a ATMOSPHERIC COMPONENTS BY PERCENTAGE
complete absence of breathing, and pallor or cyanosis.
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
OXYGEN DEFICIENCY – O2
Effects on the body
 Between 30-180 seconds of oxygen deprivation, you may lose consciousness.
 At the one-minute mark, brain cells begin dying.
 At three minutes, neurons suffer more extensive damage, and lasting brain damage becomes more likely.
 At five minutes, death becomes imminent.
 At 10 minutes, even if the brain remains alive, a coma and lasting brain damage are almost inevitable.
 At 15 minutes, survival becomes nearly impossible.

22,5% 21% 19,5% 12-19% 8-12% 6-8% 4-6%

Oxygen (% vol)

Average concentration Hypoxia and loss of LD50-6 minutes

in the air judgment LD100-8 minutes
Maximum level Minimum Loss of consciousness Coma < 1min
level blue lips Death
CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
FIRE
Three elements a fire needs to ignite:
1. Heat EX
2. Fuel
3. Oxidizing agent (usually oxygen)
Fire can be prevented or extinguished with removal of one of three elements of the
fire-triangle to interrupt the reaction:
1. Use a substance which reduces the amount of heat available (e.g. water)
2. Remove fuel source
3. Smother air supply (e.g. using a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher, a fire blanket)

Cool
Materials Interrupt reaction

Smoter Air Remove Fuel

supply Source
CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
OXYGEN ENRICHMENT – O2
EX
Oxygen enrichment of the atmosphere, even by a few percent, considerably
increases the risk of fire.
Sparks which would normally be regarded as harmless can cause fires. Materials which do
not burn in air, including fireproofing materials, may burn vigorously or even spontaneously
in oxygen-enriched air.

Oil and grease are particularly hazardous in the presence of oxygen as they can ignite
spontaneously and burn with explosive violence. They should never be used to lubricate
oxygen or enriched-air equipment.
Special lubricants which are compatible with oxygen must be used under certain conditions.
Compared with a fire in air, a fire in an enriched oxygen atmosphere is:
 more intense
 with higher temperatures, and
 has a greater heat output rate.
Under most circumstances, an oxygen fire cannot be extinguished until any source of oxygen
feeding the fire has been isolated.
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
EXPLOSION
EX

Rapid increase in volume and release of energy in an

extreme manner, usually with the generation of high
temperatures and the release of gases.
CONFINED

Explosive atmosphere:
Mixture of a dangerous substance or substances (gas, mist, dust or vapour) with the air, which has the
potential to catch fire or explode.
If a fire occurs in a confined space, the rapid spread of the flames or rise in pressure could also cause an
explosion.
Explosions are often initiated by an electric spark or flame.
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
POISONING
TOX SYMPTOMS OF POISONING
INGESTION INHALATION SKIN CONTACT INJECTION
Burns around the Saliva with blood Itching skin reactions Stings and bite signs
Exposure to substances that cause
mouth
disturbances in organisms, usually by
Altered breath Altered breath Altered breath Altered breath
chemical reaction or other activity on
the molecular scale, when an Altered wrist beat Altered wrist beat Altered wrist beat Numbed
organism absorbs a sufficient quantity. Abdominal pains Eye irritation Eye irritation Weakness or fainting
Nausea / vomiting Nausea / vomiting Often high temperature Nausea / vomiting
Hazardous substances can contact or
Diarrhea Headaches and Headaches Headaches and
enter the body trough: dizziness dizziness
1. Inhalation (breathing) Convulsions Cough Rare anaphylactic shock Red skin
2. Skin contact
Shock Altered consciousness Muscle cramps
3. Digestive system (ingestion or
Altered consciousness Altered consciousness
eating)
4. Injection Sweating Sweating
Localized swelling
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
CARBON MONOXIDE – CO TOX
Effects on the body
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that has no smell or taste. Breathing it in can make
you unwell, and it can kill if you're exposed to high levels.
O
120-150 400-600 >1000
C

Carbon monoxide (ppm)

Headache Hypotension Coma

Nausea Tachycardia Seizures
Dizziness Arrhythmia Cardiac
arrest
After carbon monoxide is breathed in, it enters your bloodstream and mixes with haemoglobin (the part of red blood cells that carry
oxygen around your body) to form carboxyhaemoglobin.
When this happens, the blood is no longer able to carry oxygen, and this lack of oxygen causes the body's cells and tissue to fail and die.
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
Long-term exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide can also lead to neurological
symptoms, such as: TOX
 difficulty thinking or concentrating
 frequent emotional changes – for example, becoming easily irritated, depressed, or
making impulsive or irrational decisions
Breathing in high levels of carbon monoxide gas can cause more severe symptoms. These
may include:
 impaired mental state and personality changes (intoxication)
 the feeling that you or the environment around you is spinning (vertigo)
 loss of physical co-ordination caused by underlying damage to the brain and nervous
system (ataxia)
 breathlessness and a heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute (tachycardia)
 chest pain caused by angina or a heart attack.
 an uncontrollable burst of electrical activity in the brain that causes muscle spasms
(seizures)
 loss of consciousness – in cases where there are very high levels of carbon monoxide,
death may occur within minutes
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
HYDROGEN SULFIDE – H2S
Effects on the body TOX
Low concentrations irritate the eyes, nose, throat and respiratory system
Moderate concentrations can cause more severe eye and respiratory irritation (including
coughing, difficulty breathing, accumulation of fluid in the lungs), headache, dizziness, nausea,
vomiting, staggering and excitability.
High concentrations can cause shock, convulsions, inability to breathe, extremely rapid
unconsciousness, coma and death.
Effects can occur within a few breaths, and possibly a single breath.

Smell of Loss of sense of smell Loss of consciousness Loss of consciousness Respiratory arrest
Rotten eggs (Death in 4-8 hours) (Death in 30-60 minutes)
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
HYDROGEN SULFIDE – H2S
In addition, hydrogen sulfide is a highly flammable gas and gas/air mixtures
can be explosive.
It may travel to sources of ignition and flash back. If ignited, the gas burns
to produce toxic vapors and gases, such as sulfur dioxide.
Corrosion of metal and concrete is another issue associated with the
generation and oxidation of hydrogen sulfide.
H2S dissolves in water to form a weak acid that corrodes and pits metals.
Corrosion due to H2S is mainly electrochemical in nature.
The hydrogen sulfide gas is biochemically oxidized in the presence of
moisture to form sulfuric acid.
The effect of sulfuric acid on concrete and steel surfaces exposed to severe
wastewater environments can be devastating.

H2S reacts with iron and steel forming iron sulfide which
can be Pyrophoric ( ignites spontaneously in air )!
CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
NITROGEN – N2
FACTS
 Nitrogen is a chemical element with the symbol N
and atomic number of 7.
 Under normal conditions nitrogen is a colourless,
odourless and tasteless gas.

 Nitrogen makes up around 78% of the air you

breathe.
 Nitrogen is present in all living things, including the
human body and plants.
 Nitrogen is in a liquid state when at a very low
temperature. Liquid nitrogen boils at −196 °C Air Composition
(−321 °F).
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS

INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS
 Many operations in industrial facilities use nitrogen gas to purge
equipment tanks and pipelines of vapors and gases.
 Nitrogen gas is also used to maintain an inert and protective
atmosphere in tanks storing flammable liquids or air-sensitive
materials.
 Liquid nitrogen is used, especially in the food and pharmaceutical
industries, to provide safe, efficient and environmentally friendly
freezing.
 Liquid nitrogen is also used to freeze material that are heat-
sensitive or soft at room temperature to allow cryogenic grinding
 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
HAZARDS AND CONTROLS
Nitrogen is sometimes mistakenly considered harmless because it is nontoxic and largely inert.

However it can act as a simple asphyxiant by displacing the oxygen in the air.

Being odorless, colorless, tasteless and nonirritating, nitrogen has no properties

that can warn people of its presence.

To prevent oxygen deficiency, areas where nitrogen is used require sufficient

ventilation.

Because nitrogen lack properties that warn of its presence (e.g., color, odor, etc.),
oxygen levels should be tested and monitored to ensure confined space entry
criteria are met.

Cold nitrogen vapors can collect in low areas because cold gas are denser than air.
 HAZARDS AND CONTROLS

Nitrogen is typically stored and used in pressures ranging from 0,7

to 200 bar.
Pressure is stored energy, and an unexpected release can cause
serious injury.

It is required to wear PPE, including gloves and face shield, when

working in an area where nitrogen discharge or jet is possible.

To protect against over-pressurization adequate pressure relief

devices must be installed on nitrogen systems.

Make sure confined space permit is implemented.

 CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS AND RISKS
In addition to hazardous atmospheres, CS work may also pose other hazards, such as:
Extreme Temperatures Chemical
Extremely hot or cold temperatures can be a Chemicals used for cleaning, sandblasting, painting,
problem for workers in a confined space. For etc. could affect the atmosphere directly or interact
example, if the space has been steam with residual substances present in the confined
cleaned, it should be allowed to cool before space. Protective gloves and clothing are needed
any entry is made. when the chemicals are:
Noise  irritant  photosensitizers
Noise within a confined space can be  corrosive  skin carcinogens, or
amplified because of the design and acoustic  allergic sensitizers  pose a percutaneous
properties of the space. This can damage risk
hearing and interfere with communication, For painting and sandblasting, dedicated work
causing a shouted warning to go unheard. method statement with details procedures and
Slick/wet Surfaces emergency response plan must be in place, with
Slips and falls can occur on a wet surface special consideration of how to remove fumes,
causing injury or death to workers. Also, a dust.
wet surface will increase the chance of injury
from electric shock in areas where electrical
circuits, equipment, and tools are used.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
WORK PLANNING
2.3. Pre-entry planning considers and ensures the following:
 Entry into any pipe is strictly prohibited, unless by
formal written approval from the CSTS Construction
Director and the GPO Construction Manager.
 the risks and necessary measures for when atmospheric
oxygen content differs from normal (20.9%)
 that ventilation and air extraction system are in place and
used when natural ventilation is not adequate
 gas/atmospheric testing and its frequency
 that communications are in place and tested between
 workers and watchman/attendant
 that Personal Protective Equipment evaluation and its use
 is relevant for the work being done
 that an escape/rescue plan is in place
 that emergency response plan and equipment is in place
at the workplace
 that the emergency team is trained, equipped and
available for rescue and First Aid
 that the required firefighting equipment is available
 the equipment and tools to be used are checked prior to
use
 the low voltage and/or ground fault protected equipment
used for work inside the confined space
 the intrinsically safe equipment and lighting used for
work inside the confined space
 the identification and verification of isolation needs
 the location of breathing air sources the location of inert
or hazardous gas sources (bottles or packs)
 the location of generators or equipment with engine
exhaust.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
2.6. All entries into confined spaces are controlled with a
confined space entry permit through the Permit to Work
system. Each permit applies to a single confined space.
2.7. All the potential hazards (e.g. hazardous
atmosphere, fire, falls, snags, congestion, release of
hazardous energy, migration of hazardous products,
fatigue, temperature) and acceptable entry criteria have
been identified and recorded on the pre-entry plan, Job
Safety Analysis and permit; and the controls to safely
enter and exit confined spaces are in place.
2.8. Simultaneous operations relating to confined space
entry are identified and addressed.
The third part specialist will conduct an assessment of all
enclosed spaces and advise on its classification.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
Initial Entry Confined Space
 The risk and necessary measures for when atmospheric oxygen content differs
from normal
 That ventilation and air extraction system are in place and used when natural
ventilation is not adequate
 Gas/ atmosphere testing prior to entry the confined space
 Provide a proper escape/ rescue plan is in place
 That the emergency response plan and equipment is in place at the workplace
 That the emergency team is trained, equipped and available for rescue
 Pre-start risk assessment need to be conducted, attended by all personnel
involved in confined space entries, are held in order to review the JSA and the
confined space entry permit to ensure that all measures are implemented,
isolation points in place and gas detection done prior to authorizing the work to
start and entry.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
Confined Space Entry Requirements
 Completion of air monitoring tests.
 Completion of Confined Space Permit.
 At least one person shall stand by on the outside of the confined space ready to
give assistance in case of emergency and monitor activities/ work inside
confined space.
 Visual, voice, or signal live communication shall be maintained between all
individuals in the confined space and the standby person.
 An approved safety belt or harness with an attached line shall be used where
practical and feasible. The free end of the line shall be secured outside the
entry opening. The line shall be at least 2,000 pound test.
 The emergency arrangements should be available ready to use Confined space
sign at all entry points
 Mechanical ventilation shall be provided, suitable with the requirement and
maintained in operation all the time
 All personnel, material & equipment inside confined space shall be controlled
and register.
 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
2.11. Pre-entry meetings, attended by all personnel involved in confined space entries, are held in order to
review the Job Safety Analysis and the confined space entry permit to ensure that all measures are
implemented, isolation points in place and gas detection done prior to authorizing the work to start and
entry.
2.12. All personnel with roles and responsibilities in the planning, approval, execution, and monitoring of
entry into confined spaces are trained in a language they understand, including (but not limited to):
 Entry supervisors  Permit approvers
 Authorized entrants  Authorized Gas Tester
 Watchmen (attendant)  Emergency/Rescue team.
 Permit coordinators

2.13. Confined space is attended by a trained and competent watchman (attendant) with no other duties,
typically one per entry point. One watchman on two or more confined spaces is possible if all confined
space entry points they are responsible for are visible from one standing point of the watchman, and the
watchman is able to perform their responsibilities for all confined spaces they are responsible for.
 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
PERSON IN CHARGE
The person who authorizes or is in charge of a ‘Permit
required’ Confined space entry must :
 Make certain that all pre-entry requirements, as
outlined on the permit, have been completed before
any worker is allowed to enter the confined space;
 Make certain that all required pre-entry conditions
have been met;
 If an in-plant rescue team is to be used in the event
of an emergency, make sure they are available;
 Make sure that any communication equipment
which would be used to summon either the in-plant
rescue team or other emergency assistance is
operating correctly;
 Terminate the entry upon becoming aware of a
condition or set of conditions whose hazard potential
exceeds the limits authorized by the entry permit.
 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
GAS TESTER
The Gas tester shall:
 Ensure that equipment is bump tested
and calibrated as per manufactures
recommendation
 Test the atmosphere at different areas
in a vessel or confined space to ensure
that it is free of toxic gasses, oxygen
levels, and flammable gas
 Shall keep record of the test performed
as required by specific PTW and
procedure
 Shall do periodic testing
 Shall communicate the test result to
the permit holder and record such
results on the permit
 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

AUTHORIZED ENTRANTS
The Confined space entrant shall:
 Follow the Site Confined Space
Entry Procedure
 Attend the Pre-Start Risk
Assessment prior to start the
activity
 Attend the generic training for
confined space
 Stop the activity and report to
dedicated Supervisor if there is any
deviation has been recognized
 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
STANDBY PERSON/HOLE WATCHER
The Standby Person shall:
 Ensure that people entering or existing
the confined space have their names and
time recorded on the confined space
entrance board (hole watcher)
 Monitor the operation of ventilating fans
 Ensure that the number of people
entering the space does not exceed the
approved number
 Confirm that personnel entering the
confined space are wearing the required
PPE and that it is in good condition
 Maintain communication with those
inside the space (checking regularly)
 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
STANDBY PERSON/HOLE WATCHER
The Standby Person shall:
 Be equipped with the same PPE as CS entrants.
 Remain at his/her post and do not leave nor enter the CS unless replaced by an equally qualified person.
If cannot be replaced, order the workers to leave the CS.
 Maintain continuous communication with all workers within the confined space effective means.
 Order entrants to leave the CS if observing:
 hazard potential exceeding entry permit conditions;
 unexpected hazard;
 toxic reaction (unusual actions in the workers);
 situation outside which could pose a hazard to the workers inside the space (this include adverse
weather conditions which may impact on entrants’ safety).
 Know how to call emergency assistance and the means to do so.
 Immediately call rescue services if needed
 Warn any unauthorized persons not to enter
 Ensure that all entrants have received Confined Space training.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
ATEX EQUIPMENT
 Where there is a risk of a flammable or explosive atmosphere existing in a
confined space, adequate precautions to ensure that ignition does not occur
must be taken.
 To prevent ignition by electrical sources (lighting, fans, mobile phones and
radio equipment as well as hand tools etc.), specially protected electrical
equipment, i.e., certified for use in explosive atmospheres, or intrinsically safe
tools must be used.
 Portable electrical equipment is not suitable for use in flammable atmospheres
unless it has an appropriate Ex rating.

If hazardous explosive
atmospheres may occur,
equipment and devices in use
must meet requirements set
by ATEX directive
2014/34/EU.
SPARK PROOF HAND TOOLS
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

All electrical tools for confined space

entry shall be equipped with Earth
Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB).

An Earth-leakage circuit breaker

(ELCB) is a safety device used in
electrical installations with high
Earth impedance to prevent injury
due to electrical shock.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
LIGHTING

 Where the confined space has no flammable

residues and certified gas free, extra low voltage
industrial lighting (25V AC) may be used
 Lighting equipment must be certified by Atex
(intrinsically safe) in case of indicate any
flammable gas/ liquid
 Transformers for lighting shall never be taken
inside the confined space
 Particular attention must be paid to the
mechanically protecting cables which pass
through man way doors and entry point
 Lighting is properly protected with cage or cover
to avoid any damage/ broken due to contact
with any hard object inside confined space
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
EQUIPMENT / TOOLS / HOSES

 Air-driven tools only may be used provided they

do not cause any sources of ignition. Air hoses
and air driven equipment shall be suitable
earthed to avoid static spark potential.
 Tools with the potential to produce a spark e.g.
grinders or needle guns shall not be used until
the Area Lead declares the area safe to use this
type of equipment.
 Should any welding or cutting be required in the
confined space the all welding and cutting
torch's and hoses are to remain outside of the
confined space at all times when not in use.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
ATMOSPHERIC TESTING
Testing a confined space for atmospheric hazards is
required before entry to obtain the required Permit To
Work (PTW).
This test must be done by a qualified Gas Tester using
equipment which has been approved for use in such areas.
 Oxygen - Ensure that proper oxygen levels are present.
 Combustible gases - Ensure that combustible gases are EX OX
not present. LEL O2
 Toxic Gases - Ensure that toxic gases are below the
permissible exposure limit. Common toxic gases in a
confined space could be hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and
carbon monoxide (CO), but other toxic gases / vapours TOX TOX
could be present and have to be identified during Risk CO H2S
Assessment.

The test results must be communicated to the permit holder

and recorded on the Confined Space certificate / entry permit
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
ATMOSPHERIC TESTING
Test Frequency
Continuous air monitoring throughout the time of the entry is required when atmosphere is expected to
change during work activities (e.g. welding, sludge removal, etc.)

If the workers leave the confined space for any significant period of time, such as for a lunch or other break,
the atmosphere of the confined space must be re-tested before the workers re-enter the confined space.

Required test frequency shall

be indicated in the CS Entry
Work Permit
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
ATMOSPHERIC TESTING
Criteria for atmospheric conditions
Element / Compound Acceptable entry conditions Recommended alarm levels (*)
Oxygen (O2) 19,5 % < O2 < 23,5% Low level: High level:
1° alarm: < 19,5% - 2° alarm: < 19% > 23,5%

% LEL 0% / Not detectable 1° alarm: 10% LEL - 2° alarm: 25% LEL

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) 0ppm / Not detectable 1° alarm: 10 ppm - 2° alarm: 15 ppm
Toxic gases 0ppm / Not detectable 1° alarm: 50% STEL - 2° alarm: 100% STEL

If pre-entry test detects unacceptable atmospheric conditions, entry is prohibited until such
conditions are brought into acceptable limits.
Alarms should be set basing on risk assessment results, consistently with applicable
legislation and code of practices
(*) Ref: Health and Safety Executive publications: The selection and use of flammable gas detectors; Review of alarm
setting for toxic gas and oxygen detectors
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
ATMOSPHERIC TESTING
It is recommended to use remote probes to
test vertical confined space at different levels.
Considerations should be taken on time
required to transport the sample to the sensor,
which depends on the length of the sampling
line and whether sampling pumps are used or
not.
Refer to manufacturer’s instructions regarding
max length allowed for sampling line.

It is important to understand that some gases and vapors are heavier than
air and will settle to the bottom of an enclosed space. Some gases are
lighter than air and will be found around the top of the enclosed space.
Therefore, it is necessary to check all areas (top, middle and bottom) of an
enclosed space with properly calibrated testing instruments to determine
which gases are present.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
2.10. Isolation requirements are verified through Permit to Work and Lock-out Tagout procedures.
Application of Lock out Tag out (LO/TO) Procedure
might be required before starting confined space
work, to ensure that equipment and systems are
free of energy through proper isolation.
Types of energy include substances under
pressure, mechanical, electrical, and stored
energy.
It might also be required to control hazardous
material, high pressure, high temperature and
other lines that could introduce a hazard.

Note: Refer to Contractor Control of Work for Greenfield and Energy

Isolation Procedures for further guidance
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
2.14. Utility lines (e.g. oxygen and gas hoses) are disconnected or removed when not in use – this is verified
by entry Supervisor in charge and double checked by the watchman (attendant).
Compressed Gas Cylinders and Tools
Compressed gas cylinders are not permitted inside a confined space except for:
 a cylinder of compressed air supplied to a respirator
 approved fire extinguishers
 approved hand-held aerosol spray containers
 approved medical resuscitation equipment
 other equipment as permitted by Regulations
Torches and hoses used for welding, brazing, or cutting must be removed from
a confined space when not in use and when the confined space is vacated:
 if it’s impractical to remove hoses for short duration breaks (i.e. during
coffee breaks), particularly where the confined space is large or where the
removal of hoses may create some risk to workers, alternate methods must
be adopted that comply with applicable regulations
 an alternate method is to disconnect the hoses at the source with safe
venting procedures together with procedures to confirm no inadvertent
reconnection while workers are on the break or, if this is not practical,
closing and putting a tag on connections located outside the confined space
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
VENTILATION
When a confined space is known to contain hazardous contaminants, it is crucial to purge the space adequately before any
entry. Subsequently, continuous ventilation should be provided to maintain a safe work environment. It is also important to
note that purging and ventilation do not exclude the need for gas testing.

 Purging
Purging of a confined space is conducted before any entry to remove any existing contaminants by
displacing the hazardous atmosphere with another medium such as air, water, steam or inert gases.

 Inerting
Inerting is a form of purging which involves removing oxygen from the confined space by displacing
it with inert gases such as nitrogen (N2) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Inerting is commonly used to
remove the potential hazards of fire and explosion by reducing oxygen

 Ventilating
Adequate and effective ventilation is required throughout the validity period of the
entry permit. Even when the confined space has been certified safe for entry, new
contaminants may be introduced from the change in conditions, or when work
performed in the space such as welding or painting releases new contaminants. An
adequate and effective ventilation maintain the contaminants concentration level as
low as possible, and the level of oxygen within safe range.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
VENTILATION

Ventilating Confined Spaces Rich with Flammable Gases/Vapours

In some instances, ventilating confined spaces that are filled with flammable gases/vapours can be
dangerous, especially if the original concentration of the flammable contaminant was above the Upper
Explosive Limit (UEL) range. By ventilating with fresh air, it will “lean out” the concentration of the
contaminant and lower it to below the UEL and within the explosion range.
In such cases, the use of exhaust ventilation or dilution ventilation using inert medium such as nitrogen (N2)
should be considered.
The fans, exhausts, motors and other equipment used to ventilate atmospheres that contain vapours,
emanations, fogs, dusts, etc., flammables or explosives, must be ATEX or intrinsically safe equipment, such as
fans with pressured air jets, eductors, or vapor ejectors, etc. The equipment must be properly insulated and
grounded, as appropriate, to control the accumulation of electricity and discharges.

Do not use oxygen-enriched air

to ventilate a Confined Space
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
VENTILATION
Effective Ventilation needs a correct set up:

Deep confined space Prevent short-circuiting Prevent re-circulation of exhaust air

Remove lighter-than- Remove heavier-than- Long confined space

air contaminants air contaminants
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
VENTILATION

When ventilating and purging, consideration should be given to the structure.

Over or under pressure situations can lead to the structure destabilizing and should be avoided.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Respirator (Air Purifying) Breathing apparatus (Air Supplied)

Uses filters to remove contaminants in the workplace air Supplies the respirator user with breathing air from a
source independent of the ambient atmosphere
Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is a particular type of PPE, used to protect the
individual wearer against the inhalation of hazardous substances in the workplace air.
Persons wearing respiratory protective equipment must meet Fitness to work requirements for
respiratory equipment to be worn.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - AIR-PURIFYING RESPIRATORS
Hazardous substances can be present in the air as particles (solid or
liquid), vapor or gas. There are two basic filter types available:
 Particle filters
 Gas / vapor filters

Filter selection must consider type and concentration of contaminants

and TLV (Threshold Limit Value)

CLASSIFICATION OF PARTICLE FILTERS

 P1 - Efficiency 80% - Protection from atoxic and non-fibrogenic kinds
of dust up to 4x TLV
 P2 - Efficiency 94% - Protection from firm and fluid deleterious kinds
of dust, smoke, and aerosols up to 15x TLV
 P3 - Efficiency 99,95% - Protection from poisonous and deleterious
kinds of dust, smoke, and aerosols up to 30x TLV

55
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - AIR-PURIFYING RESPIRATORS

COLOUR CODING FOR RESPIRATORS FILTERS

Respirators (Air Purifying) should not be used:
 In atmospheres that are oxygen deficient
 Where there is any danger of loss of consciousness or asphyxiation
 If contaminant have not clear warning properties (smell or taste)
 If concentration is not below IDLH
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - SCBA
Use of SCBA is recommended if any of the following conditions occur:
 Any environment that is unknown or has unknown levels of
contaminants
 Atmospheric conditions are IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or
Health)
 Atmospheric oxygen concentration is below 19.5 percent
 High air temperature

Examples of applications
Any persons entering a confined space using an airline BA or SCBA set that need SCBA include:
shall be provided with an EEBA (Emergency Escape Breathing  Confined space work
Apparatus) set with a bottle capable of supplying an emergency air  First response
supply for approximately 10 minutes. emergency rescue
All SCBA and EEBA shall conform to EN 137 Standards.  Escape from an area
that has become IDLH
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
EYE PROTECTION

Safety
Glasses Welding Shields
Face Shields
Eye and Face Protection
Eye protection is required in all confined spaces. If eye-irritating chemicals, vapours or dusts are present, it is necessary
to wear a pair of appropriate safety goggles.
It is critical to use eye and face protection equipment which complies with applicable codes or international standards.
Double eye protection has to be implemented for all jobs which need a mask or shield (e.g. safety glasses worn under
welding shield)
CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
2.5. Clear communication is maintained between the entrant and the watchman (attendant), e.g. voice,
radio, pre- arranged signals and whistles.

Effective means of communications must

be established and maintained throughout
confined space work
 between entrants
 between entrants and the attendant
 between attendant and control room
 between attendant and emergency
responders

Use only equipment designed and approved for the area classification it will be used in.
Intrinsically safe equipment will not create an ignition source for potential flammable atmospheres.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
BARRICADES
Safety signs, danger tape and /
or hard barricades must be used
to prevent unauthorized entry
or accidental falls into confined
spaces.
Adequate barricades must be in
place when entry point is
unattended (e.g. when work are
temporarily suspended).
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
BARRICADES
2.9. There is a mean of controlling all potential entry points, including labelling, signage and barricading, and
a tag system to account for all entrants that is managed at the access point of the confined space.
2.15. Permit to Work is closed after completion or suspension of the confined space work, and a means of
preventing re-entry is established.
 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CONFINED SPACE WORK
FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Adequate controls shall be in place for all

confined space where a risk of fall from
height exists.
Typical fall protection systems
appropriate for access to and egress from
confined spaces include, for example:
 Tripod and SRL
 Davit Arm Systems
 Guided-type fall arrester on flexible
anchor line
 …
 CONFINED SPACE RESCUE
RESCUE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
Confined space entries require the development and implementation of plans for:
 Summoning rescue and emergency services,
 Rescuing entrants from permit spaces,
 Ensuring the required emergency equipment is in place;
 Providing necessary emergency services to rescued employees, and
 Preventing unauthorized personnel from attempting a rescue.
Rescue services must be available for each confined space entry. This service may be provided internally or
externally.

Outside Rescue Services

Employee Rescue Teams
Non-Entry Rescue
 CONFINED SPACE RESCUE
Outside Rescue Services
Rescue services must be trained, equipped, and responsive to confined space emergencies. The rescue
service must be close enough to respond promptly to reasonable, expected emergencies. Some particularly
hazardous entries might require the rescue service to be at the site. It is acceptable to contract with rescue
services. If this is the case, then:
 Shell must inform the rescue service of hazards they may confront; and
 Shell must provide the rescue service with access to its Permit to work information for pre-planning or
rescue practice.
CONFINED SPACE RESCUE
Non-Entry Rescue
Provide for non-entry retrieval and rescue unless this type of
retrieval would increase risk to entrants or would not help in the
rescue. The non entry retrieval system includes:
 A chest or full body harness with a retrieval line attached at the
center of the person’s back near shoulder level or above the
head. The other end of the line must be attached to a
mechanical device or fixed point outside the space to help
ensure a fast response. To retrieve victims from a vertical permit
space deeper than 5 feet, use a mechanical lifting device.
 GUIDELINES FOR APPLICATION OF SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK

a) Include confined space work in the Permit to Work system

b) Ensure that a specific risk assessment has been carried out for each
confined space work
c) Analyse the task that has to be performed by breakinkg it down into a
sequence of steps
d) Identify potential hazards and implement adequate control measures for
each phase of the work
e) Appoint a competent supervisor for each confined space work
 GUIDELINES FOR APPLICATION OF SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK

f) Ensure that all personnel involved in confined space work has attended a
confined space training course
g) Control interferences between simultaneous operations trough the Permit
to Work system
h) Conduct Toolbox Talk, LMRA or other pre-job meeting to communicate
safety requirements to all personnel involved.
i) Appoint a confined space attendant before anyone enter in the confined
space
j) Ensure that equipment and devices required by rescue plan are available