Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Policy Document Number # QH-PTL-275-12-1:2012 Protocol for Confined Space Entry Custodian/Review O fficer: Director Safety and Wellbeing Version no: 1.0 Applicable To: All Queensland Health employees 1. Purpose This Protocol describes the mandatory steps to be implemented to ensure safe entry conditions for work performed in confined spaces undertaken on behalf of Queensland Health. Approval Date: 01 July 2012 Effective Date: 01 July 2012 Next Review Date: 01 July 2015 Authority: Lyn Rowland, Chief Human Resources Officer, System Support Services Division Approving Officer Lyn Rowland, Chief Human Resources Officer, S ystem Supp ort Services Division Supersedes: 2-50#38 Confined Space Entry Key W ords: Confined space, entry requirement, hazard, risk, legal requirement, fire prevention, fumes, emergency requirement. 2. Scope This Protocol applies to all Queensland Health employees (permanent, temporary and casual) and all organisations and individuals acting as its agents (including Visiting Medical Officers and other partners, contractors, consultants and volunteers). 3. Supporting documents Authorising Policy and Standard/s: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Policy Confined Space Safety Implementation Standard Procedures, Guidelines, Protocols Confined Space Equipment Selection, Use and Maintenance Guideline Forms and templates Confined Space Entry Permit Confined Space Identification Matrix Confined Space Risk Assessment template Accreditation References: Nil 4. Related documents Confined Spaces Code of Practice 2011 Department of Justice and Attorney-General Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 1 of 10
How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice 2011 - Department of Justice and Attorney-General Confined Spaces AS 60079 Explosive atmospheres AS 716 Respiratory Protective Devices 5. Process for Confined Spaces Entry 5.1 Overview 5.1.1 No person shall enter a potential confined space unless an assessment has first been conducted to establish whether the space is a confined space. 5.1.2 If a space is identified as a confined space, no person shall enter the space until: a risk assessment has been conducted. Where there is a pre-existing risk assessment, it shall be reviewed prior to work being carried out to ensure no new hazards have arisen steps have been taken to eliminate or appropriately manage the hazards identified in the risk assessment an entry permit is completed by the competent person responsible for control of entry to, and work performed in the confined space, and issued to the person entering the confined space the person entering the confined space is advised of, understands and complies with the requirements of the written authority (i.e. the entry permit) a record of their presence in the confined space has been made on the entry permit signs and protective barriers are erected to prevent entry of persons not involved in the tasks a protocol is in place to communicate with the worker in the confined space and monitor their safety appropriate and sufficient arrangements have been made for the initiation of emergency response and, where necessary, rescue of persons from the confined space they have undertaken suitable training and instruction and been assessed competent to perform tasks in a confined space. 5.1.3 It is the responsibility of each person involved to ensure they comply with each of the above requirements, with shared responsibility between the Hospital and Health Service (HHS) appointed person responsible for confined spaces and the worker. 5.2 Identification Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 2 of 10
5.2.1 Stage One of identification involves identification of any compartments that meet the definition of a confined space as defined in Schedule 19 of the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011. 5.2.2 The person(s) engaged in undertaking this assessment shall be competent in confined space safety. 5.2.3 Identified confined spaces shall be recorded in a register. The register and any associated risk assessments shall be provided to any persons proposing to enter and conduct tasks in or near a confined space prior to gaining entry or any work being carried out. Key criteria which should be documented when assessing a possible confined space are outlined in the Confined Spaces Criteria in Attachment A of the Confined Spaces Code of Practice 2011 Once complete, the table in the Confined Spaces Criteria can be used as the confined spaces register for the facility. Note: This table is not a substitute for a risk assessment. 5.2.4 Where possible, identification shall be made without entry into the compartment. If entry to a compartment is required to make an assessment for identification purposes, it shall initially be treated as a confined space and controls put in place to eliminate or otherwise minimise any known or potential risks prior to entry. 5.2.5 Atmospheric monitoring and other equipment shall be utilised in line with safe entry principles as determined by risk assessment. 5.3 Risk Assessment 5.3.1 Risk assessments shall be conducted and/or reviewed without entry into the compartment where possible. 5.3.2 The risk assessment shall identify all of the likely hazards that may affect health and safety of persons entering the space, along with controls that shall be implemented prior to entry. 5.3.3 For a list of hazards commonly associated with confined spaces, refer to the Confined Spaces Code of Practice 2011. 5.3.4 Atmospheric hazards shall be detected accurately by ensuring monitoring equipment is tested and calibrated. 5.3.5 Prior to use, a bump test shall be conducted on the monitoring device to ensure the device alarms appropriately when exposed to a contaminant. 5.3.6 The user of the monitoring equipment shall ensure the device is calibrated to read the gas being used and that the alarm modes are set accordingly. 5.3.7 Initial testing shall be done from outside the confined space by inserting a sample probe and/or portable gas detection device at appropriately selected access holes, nozzles and openings. Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 3 of 10
5.3.8 Contaminants can settle at different levels therefore each part of the confined space should be tested side to side and top to bottom. 5.3.9 The person in direct control of the work being performed in the confined space shall ensure test results are recorded accurately on the associated entry permit 5.4 Stand-by Person 5.4.1 The role of the stand-by person is critical to the safety of others involved in the confined space entry; therefore, this person shall be a competent person. 5.4.2 The duties of a stand-by person include: being assigned to remain on the outside of, and in close proximity to, the confined space being capable of being in continuous communication with and, if possible, observing those inside the confined space operating and monitoring equipment used to ensure safety during entry and work in the confined space if necessary, initiating rescue procedures. 5.5 Hot Work 5.5.1 A hot work permit may be an integral part of the written authority to enter the confined space, which shall be checked before the entry permit is authorised. 5.5.2 The hot work permit shall certify that appropriate risk control measures have been carried out and shall list the frequency of any tests necessary to maintain safe conditions. 5.5.3 Aspects to be taken into account when considering a hot work permit shall include the following: 5.5.3.1 Where a confined space or an adjacent space has contained a flammable contaminant, the hot work permit shall be issued only after inspection and testing have established that the following factors have been considered: the concentration of flammable contaminants in the atmosphere the removal of any liquid and solid residues where necessary to prevent the release of flammable contaminants that will raise the concentration of flammable airborne contaminants the concentration of flammable contaminants within any piping within the confined space or connected to it. 5.5.3.2 In a confined space having last contained dry material that, when dispersed in air, creates a flammable or explosive atmosphere, the hot work permit shall be issued only after inspection has established that loose dust has been removed from the confined space and all appropriate surfaces have been cleaned or the material has been rendered safe (e.g. by wetting down dust). Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 4 of 10
5.5.3.3 Where fixed extinguishing systems employing an extinguishing agent that may affect the safety of the work environment, protects the confined space, such systems shall be positively isolated when the space is occupied, regardless of whether it has manual or automatic activation controls. 5.5.4 The discharge of certain extinguishing agents can rapidly cause the atmosphere to become hazardous to persons, in such cases, alternative fire protection shall be provided during occupancy in the confined space by adequate numbers of the appropriate size and type of portable fire extinguishers. 5.6 Fire Prevention Measures 5.6.1 The following fire prevention measures shall be taken: 5.6.1.1 All combustible substances, including any dry residues, in the vicinity of the hot work shall be removed to a safe place. If they cannot be moved, they shall be covered by a non-combustible blanket, flame-resistant tarpaulin, or other means to prevent ignition from heat, sparks and slag. 5.6.1.2 Assignment of a fire watch while the hot work is being conducted and for a period of not less than 30 minutes after completion of the hot work. In many cases, the fire watch may be conducted by the stand-by person(s). 5.6.1.3 When welding or cutting is to be conducted on a tank shell or a conductive boundary of a confined space, the same precautions shall be exercised inside and outside the space where the hot work is being conducted. NOTE: Sparks from direct penetration or heat transfer may also create an explosion or fire hazard in the adjacent spaces outside the confined space. 5.6.1.4 Assess the flammability of any surface coatings before commencement of hot work on a surface covered. Where such a coating is flammable, it shall be stripped from the area of hot work to prevent ignition. 5.6.1.5 A charged hose reel or other suitable portable fire extinguishers, or both, shall be available. 5.6.1.6 When arc welding in a confined space is suspended for a substantial period, (e.g. during lunch periods or overnight), the power source to the equipment shall be de-energized, all electrodes removed from holders and the holders placed so that accidental contact or arcing cannot occur. 5.6.1.7 When gas welding or cutting is suspended for a substantial period, (e.g. during lunch periods or overnight), the torch and cylinder valves shall be closed. The torch and hose shall be removed from and depressurised outside the confined space. 5.6.1.8 No compressed gas cylinders or associated manifolds, other than those used for self contained breathing apparatus, shall be located inside the confined space. Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 5 of 10
5.6.1.9 Flammable metal anti-corrosion anodes shall be removed from the immediate area. 5.7 Control of Fumes 5.7.1 Fumes shall be controlled as follows: 5.7.1.1 In a confined space, all surfaces covered with coatings that would decompose or volatilise under hot work into toxic, flammable, corrosive or irritant components, shall be stripped from the area of heat application. 5.7.1.2 A significant area surrounding the area to be heated shall also be stripped of any coatings in order to minimise creation of fumes due to temperature increases of the un-stripped surrounding metal. 5.7.1.3 Artificial cooling of the metal surrounding the hot work area may be necessary to limit the size of the area required to be cleaned. 5.7.1.4 Coatings that may pose a hazard include zinc, cadmium, lead paints, certain other paints and plastics. 5.7.1.5 A mechanism to exhaust airborne contaminants from the confined space shall be implemented. 5.7.1.6 The exhaust suction point shall be located as close as possible to the source of contamination within the confined space (e.g. close to the metal being welded). 5.7.1.7 Such exhaust shall be directed to a location where it presents no hazard and will not accidentally be re-circulated into the confined space. 5.8 Training, Information and Instruction 5.8.1 Prescribed training, instruction and information shall include: the nature of all hazards relating to a confined space the need for, and the appropriate use of, control measures to control risks to health and safety associated with those hazard; the selection fit, use, wearing, testing, storage and maintenance of any personal protective equipment; the contents of any confined space entry permit that may be issued in relation to work carried out by the worker in a confined space emergency procedures. 5.8.2 Any person performing any of the following confined space activities or roles shall be trained, and assessed as competent: entering or working in confined spaces perform confined space hazard identification and risk assessments implementing risk control measures issuing work permits stand-by and emergency response role Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 6 of 10
monitoring and testing activities purchasing equipment for confined space work design or lay out of a work area that includes a confined space manage or maintain responsibility for the direct control of the work in confined spaces maintain equipment used for ensuring the safety of persons in the confined space including providing, fitting, wearing and maintaining personal protective equipment. 5.8.3 Core training elements recommended by Confined Spaces are as follows: demonstrate an understanding of legislation, standards and codes of practice relevant to confined spaces identify the criteria that define confined spaces assess risks associated with entering and conducting tasks in, or on a confined space identify and implement risk control measures. apply emergency response procedures. 5.8.4 Where practicable the training provider shall be requested to tailor the training to demonstrate the hazards, risks and equipment that are associated with the confined spaces applicable to the course participants 5.8.5 The frequency of refresher training will depend on how often workers are required to carry out tasks associated with confined spaces. As a general rule, if confined space entry is not undertaken frequently, refresher training should be undertaken at least annually. 5.9 Emergency Response 5.9.1 It is recommended that emergency response procedures be developed in consultation with relevant emergency service agencies that are likely to be relied upon in the event of an incident. 5.9.2 Procedures shall consider the need to remove trapped, injured or unconscious persons from the confined space and resources required. 5.9.3 All persons who might be involved with an emergency response associated with a confined space shall be made aware that emergency response procedures are to be followed at all times, despite any instinctive reaction to the contrary. 5.9.4 At a minimum, awareness training of emergency procedures shall be covered as part of the workplace induction program or other similar training. 5.9.5 Any person likely to be designated as a stand-by person shall be competent to coordinate actions in response to any emergency that may occur while the confined space is occupied. Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 7 of 10
5.9.6 Regular refresher training in basic procedures and emergency response is essential for staff and managers to ensure the right procedures will be followed, should an incident occur. 5.9.7Considerations for emergency response training shall include the following: size, layout and location of the confined space and location of the site in relation to available emergency services communication to others outside of the immediate work area (including emergency services) in the event of an emergency nature of hazards and the severity of the risks potential problems with entry and exit points potential of hostile atmospheres that may require a particular type of breathing apparatus known occurrences of accidents or illness associated with the confined space availability of first aid equipment and trained first aid personnel number of personnel trained in rescue procedures and capable of undertaking rescue tasks availability and maintenance of appropriate rescue equipment possible range of scenarios including where: persons are uninjured and able to evacuate themselves persons are injured but still capable of self-evacuation; entry is required to provide treatment persons are assisted to evacuate by persons remaining outside the space emergency entry is required in order to evacuate employees. 5.9.8 Appropriate plant for the rescue of persons from the confined space shall be clearly detailed in procedures. 5.9.9 Emergency response equipment may include additional sets of breathing apparatus, lifelines and lifting equipment. Equipment will vary depending on the type of confined space, the risks involved and how persons in the space will be rescued. 5.9.10 The location of, and access to, emergency response and first aid equipment shall be clearly described in the emergency response procedures. 5.9.11 Plant, equipment and personal protective equipment provided for first aid or emergency rescue shall be checked regularly and maintained in good working order. Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 8 of 10
6. Definition of Terms Term Definition / Explanation / Details Source Atmospheric monitoring The continuous measurement of oxygen concentration or airborne contaminants over an uninterrupted period of time. Atmospheric testing Authorising officer Bump Test Competent person Confined Space Contaminant Engulfment The measurement of oxygen concentration or airborne contaminant that is not continuous. A designated person for the facility who is competent in confined space safety and is responsible for issuing and authorising entry permits after they are satisfied that the permit conditions and hazard controls allow work to be carried out safely. This may be the person in direct control of work being performed in the confined space. A qualitative function check where a challenge gas is passed over the sensor(s) at a concentration and exposure time sufficient to activate all alarm indicators to present at least their lower alarm setting. The purpose of this check is to confirm that gas can get to the sensor(s) and that all the alarms present are functional. A person who has, through a combination of training, education and experience, acquired knowledge and skills enabling that person to perform a specified task correctly. Means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that: (a) is not designed or intended primarily to be occupied by a person (b) is, or is designed or intended to be, at normal atmospheric pressure while any person is in the space (c) is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety from: (i) an atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level (ii) contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts, that may cause injury from fire or explosion (iii) harmful concentrations of any airborne contaminants (iv) engulfment but does not include a mine shaft or the workings of a mine. Any dust, fume, mist, vapour, biological matter, gas or other substance in liquid or solid form, the presence of which may be harmful to person. The immersion or envelopment of a person by a solid or a liquid (including substances in a powder or granular Queensland Health Queensland Health Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 9 of 10
Entry (to a con fined space) Flammable airborn e contaminant Hot Work Stand-by person form) that is stored within the confined space. When a person s head or upper body is within the boundary of the confined space. Note inserting an arm for the purpose of atmospheric testing is not considered as entry to a confined space. Any dust, fume, mist, vapour or gas present in the air at concentrations that can propagate a flame on contact with an ignition source. Welding, thermal or oxygen cutting, heating, including fire-producing or spark- producing operation that may increase the risk of fire or explosion. A competent person assigned to remain on the outside of, and in close proximity to, the confined space and capable of being in continuous communication and, if practicable, observing those inside. In addition, where necessary, the competent person may operate and monitor equipment for the safety of personnel in the confined space and initiate emergency response. Confined Spaces Clause 1.5.13 7. Approval and Implementation Policy Custodian Graham Easterby, a/director, Safety and Wellbeing, System Support Services Division Responsible Executive Team Member: Lyn Rowland, Chief Human Resources Officer, System Support Services Division Approving Officer: Lyn Rowland, Chief Human Resources Officer, System Support Services Division Approval date: 01 July 2012 Effective from: 01 July 2012 Version No: 1.0 - Effective From: 01 July 2012 Page 10 of 10
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