ATMOSPHERIC TESTS
The air in confined spaces shall be tested with an appropriate device to determine whether dangerous air contamination, oxygen deficiency, or oxygen enrichment exists before entry is made. The normal level of oxygen in air is approximately 21%. The Lower Explosion Limit (LEL) is the minimum concentration of vapor in air below which the propagation of flame does not occur upon contact with an ignition source.
AN OXYGEN DEFICIENT ATMOSPHERE CONTAINS LESS THAN 19.5 PERCENT BY VOLUME, AN OXYGEN ENRICHED ATMOSPHERE CONTAINS MORE THAN 23 PERCENT BY VOLUME
Test each compartments, all discharge valves, all loading lines and all voids for oxygen content, explosiveness and toxicity. While occupied, additional continuous or periodic monitoring for dangerous air contamination, oxygen deficiency or oxygen enrichment shall be done.
- SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Management must ensure a competent person:
- Determines the requirements for personal protective equipment
- Determines the equipment required to conduct an effective rescue.
- Visually inspects all required safety equipment to ensure it is in proper working condition.
- ENTER THE CONFINED SPACE ONLY WHEN
- The hazards have been assessed & documented
- All energy sources have been isolated
- The attendant is in place.
- An effective communication system has been established between:
- The attendant & workers, and
- the attendant & rescue personnel
- The appropriate safety equipment (ppe & rescue) is in place.
- The appropriate atmospheric testing has been completed.
- The confined space entry permit has been signed by all entrants, the attendant and a management authorized representative.
- PLACEMENT OF THE ATTENDANT
An attendant must be at or near the confined space entrance if:
- The atmosphere has or may develop oxygen levels less than 19.5% or greater than 23% by volume
- The atmosphere has concentrations of hazardous substances greater than 50% of the Occupational Exposure limit.
- The hazard assessment requires it.
Confined Space Entry & Hot Work Permit