Enter confined space

Application

This unit of competency is required by persons who are required to enter a confined space, as defined by the Australian Standard AS 2865-2009 Confined spaces, or its authorised update or replacement.

This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required for safe entry to confined spaces under a work permit and for maintaining safety while working in the confined space. The term ‘work permit’ (or ‘permit’) includes all written authorities as defined by AS 2865-2009 Confined spaces. It applies to persons required to enter confined spaces for any purpose, including maintenance, cleaning, inspection or other reasons.

Work in/entry to confined spaces shall conform to relevant legislation and AS 2865-2009 Confined spaces, or its authorised update or replacement.

AS 2865-2009 Confined spaces defines a confined space as:

'An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not intended or designed primarily for human occupancy, within which there is a risk of one or more of the following:

(a) An oxygen concentration outside the safe oxygen range.

(b) A concentration of airborne contaminant that may cause impairment, loss of consciousness or asphyxiation.

(d) Engulfment in a stored free-flowing solid or a rising level of liquid that may cause suffocation or drowning.'

Entry to a confined space is defined by AS 2865-2009 Confined spaces as: '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.'

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Elements and performance criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes	Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element

1	Assess confined space for entry	1.1	Confirm the purpose of the required entry
	1.2	Check the documented risk assessment associated with the entry to the confined space
	1.3	Identify and assess hazards within/around the confined space
	1.4	Identify hazard controls and check they are functional and appropriate.
	1.5	Check the incident/emergency response plan is appropriate to the job
	1.6	Rehearse own role in an incident/emergency response
	1.7	Confirm and verify that the conditions of the permit reflect the risk assessment
	1.8	Ensure the confined space is ready for entry

2	Use safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE)	2.1	Secure the worksite
	2.2	Select, fit and wear designated PPE
	2.3	Select, test and use required instruments and monitors
	2.4	Challenge test atmosphere/atmospheric monitoring instrument if required before entry
	2.5	Confirm test/monitoring results show entry is safe

3	Work in accordance with confined space requirements	3.1	Enter confined space safely
	3.2	Work in compliance with permit requirements
	3.3	Arrange re-authorisation/reissue of permits as required
	3.4	Complete confined space working documentation
	3.5	Maintain communications with all relevant personnel
	3.6	Monitor atmosphere within the confined space as required by the permit
	3.7	Monitor environment around the confined space for relevant changes
	3.8	Take appropriate action if there is a change in risk/work environment

4	Conclude confined space operations in accordance with procedures	4.1	Recover, clean, service and store equipment
	4.2	Complete required final documentation
	4.3	Report any issues

Unit Description

Application

Elements and performance criteria

Important Notice