Confined Space Entry Checklist
A complete checklist for confined space entry — covering hazard identification, atmospheric testing, isolation, ventilation, standby person requirements, and emergency rescue procedures.
High-Risk Activity
Confined space entry is one of the most dangerous maintenance activities. Multiple fatalities occur every year from atmospheric hazards, engulfment, and failed rescues. Never enter a confined space without a valid permit, gas testing, and a standby person.
What is a Confined Space?
A confined space has ALL three characteristics:
- Large enough to enter (and work in)
- Restricted entry or exit (not designed for continuous occupancy)
- Not designed for human occupancy (tanks, vessels, ducts, pits, silos, etc.)
Pre-Entry Checklist
☐ Confined space permit completed and authorised
☐ All personnel trained in confined space entry
☐ Hazard assessment completed — atmospheric, physical, biological, engulfment
☐ Energy isolation (LOTO) completed and verified — all energy sources isolated
☐ Continuous forced ventilation operating (do not use pure oxygen for ventilation)
☐ Atmospheric gas testing completed BEFORE entry:
☐ Oxygen: 19.5–23.5%
☐ Flammable gases: Below 10% LEL
☐ Toxic gases (H₂S, CO): Below exposure limits
☐ Testing at all levels (top, middle, bottom) — gases stratify
☐ Standby person assigned and present at the entry point
☐ Communication method established (radio, voice, rope signal)
☐ Rescue plan in place — rescue equipment available, rescue team notified
☐ Personal protective equipment (PPE) available and worn
☐ Entry and exit log established — all entrants logged in and out
☐ Continuous gas monitoring active during entry
During Entry
- Continuous gas monitoring — if readings change, evacuate immediately
- Standby person must remain at the entry point at all times — never leave the entry unattended
- Maintain communication — check in with entrants at regular intervals
- No smoking, open flames, or spark-producing tools (unless hot work permit is in place)
- Do not use pure oxygen to ventilate — fire and explosion risk
- If the entrant shows signs of distress — initiate rescue immediately. Do NOT send another person in without proper equipment.
Emergency Rescue
- NEVER enter a confined space to rescue someone without proper equipment and training — over 60% of confined space fatalities are would-be rescuers
- The standby person should call for help immediately — do not attempt entry alone
- Rescue equipment (tripod, winch, harness, SCBA) must be available at the entry point before entry begins
- Rescue team must be trained and available within the response time specified in the rescue plan
- If the atmosphere is immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH), only SCBA-equipped rescuers may enter
Post-Entry
- ☐ All entrants have exited — verify against the entry/exit log
- ☐ All tools and equipment removed from the space
- ☐ Isolation removed and equipment returned to service (by authorised person)
- ☐ Permit closed out and signed by the permit issuer
- ☐ Entry and exit log filed with the permit