Description

This Standard sets out the particular requirements and risk control measures for the safety of persons entering or conducting tasks associated with a confined space.

It contains Sections dealing with planning and implementing entry to a confined space. Appendices include guidance for training, risk assessment, atmospheric monitoring and sample forms and permits associated with confined space work.

Scope

This Standard is intended to help designers, manufacturers, suppliers, modifiers and users of confined spaces to achieve a safety outcome. It is not exhaustive in its coverage, but it is intended to cover those areas which are of particular concern in regard to confined space safety.

Note: Further information may be found in legislation, Standards, Codes of Practice and guidance notes.

Requirements and controls for general occupational health and safety risks (e.g. welding safety, prevention of slips and falls) are dealt with in other Standards and regulations and are not specifically addressed in this Standard. This Standard does not cover underground mining, tunnelling, excavation work, trenching, abrasive blasting or spray painting. In such cases, other safe systems of work apply.

This Standard is not intended to cover confined spaces that are not at atmospheric pressure. At pressures significantly higher or lower than the normal atmospheric pressure, expert guidance should be sought. Many enclosed or partially enclosed spaces are not confined spaces in accordance with the definition in this Standard. Specific areas such as dangerous goods and hazardous substances storage areas are subject to their own legislation, Standards or Codes of Practice.

A flow diagram for entry and conduct of tasks in a confined space is given in Appendix A.