The Assigned Duties Of Authorized Entrant In Confined Entry Spaces

Sending people into confined spaces to do critical work is no simple task when it relates to your workers’ health and safety. There is no higher priority for you, as an employer, than to ensure that you supervise the overall safety of each and every one of your employees. Since confined spaces are often very likely to be hazardous areas, there are some requirements that entrants must meet, and protocols that must be followed at all times.

Completed Confined Space Entry Training

Any worker who is supposed to work within a confined space must receive adequate training in order to be deemed competent enough to safely enter and work in a confined space. They need to have knowledge of the hazards that could be present within a confined space, procedures about entering a confined space, rescue plans, and how to use various types of PPE that will protect them while they are on the job.

Be Named An Authorized Entrant On The Entry Permit

Any time work needs to be done in a confined space, the employer must acquire and maintain a permit allowing workers to enter the confined space. This permit outlines the scope of work done in the confined space, hazards that are present, PPE required for safe work, a comprehensive rescue plan, and the names of the employees who are authorized to enter the space.

Inspect PPE Before Every Entry

Personal protective equipment that is used within confined spaces needs to be in working order at all times. Before entering into a confined space, the entrant must inspect all PPE devices including ropes, harnesses, safety goggles, face masks and more to ensure they are in working order. If any piece of equipment is deemed unfit for work, then it must be replaced and tested before entering the confined space.

Maintain Communication Within The Space

While working in the confined space, the designated rescue worker will be waiting outside the entrance in order to jump into action quickly in the event that the worker in the confined space needs help getting out. These situations can range from the entrant simply being stuck and needing a hand to get out, to the entrant being in immediate danger. It is the responsibility of the entrant to maintain communication as much as possible with the rescue worker so that they know exactly which procedures to follow from the rescue plan based on what they are being told.

Confined Space Evacuation

There may be situations where the confined space becomes too dangerous to continue working, and the worker within the space will need to evacuate immediately. These conditions can vary depending on the size of the space, the atmospheric environment within the space, and the type of work being done in the space. In all confined spaces, a worker must immediately evacuate in instances where:

• The supervisor or rescue worker has ordered an evacuation from the space or job site
• The entrant recognizes warning signs or symptoms of exposure to hazards within the space
• When any type of evacuation alarm has been activated

Become An Authorized Entrant For Confined Spaces With ACT

A safe work place is crucial and ensuring that you have the right safety procedures and policies for confined space entry, a can create a great work environment that is safe and productive. Since Advanced Consulting and Training Ltd.’s founding, their diverse team of certified health and safety professionals have taken great pride in their ability to deliver prompt, cost-effective and relevant workplace health and safety solutions. As a CPO approved, TSSA accredited, and WSIB approved provider, we look forward to discussing how ACT can help with your companies safety requirements. Contact us today.