JO Confined Space Entry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Confined Space?

A Confined Space is:

·  Large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work, and

·  Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit; for example, tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults and pits are spaces that may have limited means of entry, and

·  Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.

Who is an Authorized Entrant? What training do Authorized Entrants need to enter a Confined Space?

An Authorized Entrant is an individual who meets certain competency requirements and is authorized by JO, by means of a permit and certificate, to enter a Confined Space.

The entrant is required to attend JO approved Confined Space entry training program to enter a Confined Space.

Who is an Entrant Supervisor?

Entry Supervisor is the person responsible for determining if acceptable entry conditions are present in a Confined Space where entry is planned, for authorizing entry, overseeing entry operations, and for terminating entry as required.

Who is an entry watch?

An Entry Watch is a competent person stationed at the entry point of a permitted Confined Space whose only duties are to control the entry and exit of personnel, to monitor the acceptable entry conditions both in and outside the Confined Space, to maintain communication with the entrants, and to raise an alarm if any problems occur.

Who is an Authorized Gas Tester?

A person who is trained and competent in the use of portable gas-testing equipment and has successfully demonstrated use of the equipment in the field. This person must also be competent in recognizing risks inherent to Hot Work and Confined Space Entry.

Are Rescue Personnel required on site for every Confined Space Entry?

A rescue plan (see Standard Rescue Plan Format) must be in place for each entry. It is important to select rescue services or teams, either onsite or offsite, that are adequately trained and equipped to perform Confined Space rescues of the kind needed and that can respond in a timely manner.

If an offsite rescue service is being considered, the service must be contacted to plan and determine their capabilities to respond. Merely posting the service number or relying on the emergency phone number to obtain these services at the time of a permitted space emergency does not comply with the standard.

When is a Confined Space certificate required?

A Confined Space certificate is required for the Confined Space that has one or more of the following:

·  Contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere, or

·  Contains a material that has the potential to engulf an entrant, or

·  has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be trapped; or asphyxiated by inwardly contracting walls; or by a floor that slopes downward to a smaller cross-section, or

·  Contains any other recognized safety or health hazards.

The certificate only allows entry into the Confined Space. Work activities in the Confined Space may require additional permits.

Why do I have to fill out a JHA, JSA, GWP, Emergency Rescue Plan and a Confined Space Entry Certificate?

JHA, JSA, PTW and a Confined Space entry certificate are completed to facilitate hazard recognition and to ensure the job is done Incident and Injury Free.

How long is the initial gas test valid? Who determines continuous gas testing?

The initial gas test is valid for one shift only. At the beginning of subsequent shift the Permit Approver’s representative shall carry out an initial gas test for that shift. The Permit Approver determines frequency of subsequent gas tests by consulting the Gas Tester. Continuous gas testing is normally required when there is a likelihood of changing gas concentrations and/or when there is a high risk to workers if the gas concentration changes unexpectedly.

Who does initial gas test?

The initial gas test is carried out by the competent Authorized Gas Tester assigned to the division approving the permit.

When does an excavation become a Confined Space?

Any excavation that is greater than 1.2 meters becomes a Confined Space.

What are common hazards associated with Confined Spaces?

·  Chemical: gases & vapors (benzene, carbon monoxide, steam, etc.), liquids (hydrocarbons, sulfuric acids, etc.), solids (dust, welding fumes, etc.).

·  Physical: electrocution risk, heat stress, oxygen deficiency, noise, naturally-occurring radioactive materials (NORM).

·  Oxygen deficiency or enrichment.

·  Others: engulfment, entrapment, fall potential, etc.

·  Pyrophoric Scale – Iron sulfide that can be formed in tanks which store sulfur containing products, e.g., sour crude oil, naphtha, etc., due to a reaction between sulfur compounds and rust. The reaction between iron sulfide and air can generate sufficient heat to ignite any flammable vapors in the vicinity.

·  Poor Communication/ Illumination / Visibility.

What is the minimum PPE for a Confined Space Entry?

At minimum all entrants must wear a portable H2S monitor, safety glasses, safety shoes, and safety helmet while working inside Confined Spaces.

Depending on risk involved the entrants shall use a safety harness with a life line and air supplied respiratory equipment.

How is Confined Space and Isolation of Hazardous energy linked?

Before issuing a Confined Space entry certificate, all energy sources must be identified, switched off, positively isolated and locked/ tagged out.

·  All the connected piping shall be blinded, blanked or physically separated.

·  All blinds, plugs and gaskets must be rated to withstand the maximum allowable working pressure and temperature.

·  Isolation of energy source shall confirm to Isolation of Hazardous Energy procedure (JOSOP 460)

Is an entry watch required for excavations that are greater than 1.2 Meters?

Yes

2 of 3 Version 3 – 25/07/2010