How to inspect a confined space in construction

Here's a safety checklist for inspecting a confined space in construction, incorporating elements from the provided documents:

Confined Space Entry Inspection Checklist

Purpose: To ensure safe entry into confined spaces by identifying and mitigating potential hazards before entry.

Instructions: Complete this checklist before each entry into a confined space. All items must be verified and corrective actions taken where necessary.

I. Pre-Entry Assessment

• [ ] Confined Space Identification: Verify the space is identified as a confined space with appropriate signage .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Hazard Assessment: A competent person has assessed the hazards associated with the confined space 2, 18.
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Entry Permit: A valid entry permit has been completed and signed by a competent person .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Written Procedures: Written confined space entry procedures are established and available .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Alternative Entry: Evaluate if there are alternative means to perform the work without entering the confined space .
  • Corrective Actions:

II. Atmospheric Testing & Ventilation

• [ ] Atmospheric Testing: The atmosphere has been tested for oxygen levels (19.5% - 23.0%), flammable substances, and toxic substances .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Continuous Monitoring: If potential for atmospheric changes exists, continuous monitoring is in place .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Ventilation: If a hazardous atmosphere exists or is likely to exist, the space has been ventilated or purged .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Forced-Air Ventilation: If continuous forced-air ventilation is used, it is directed to ventilate the immediate area where employees are present and will continue until all employees leave the enclosed space .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Air Supply: The air supply for continuous forced-air ventilation is from a clean source and does not increase hazards .
  • Corrective Actions:

III. Isolation & Lockout

• [ ] Isolation: The confined space has been isolated to prevent the entry of liquids, free-flowing solids, or hazardous substances .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Lockout/Tagout: Machines, equipment, tools, and electrical installations that present a hazard have been locked out and tagged out 16, 18.
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Inerting: If an explosive or flammable atmosphere cannot be eliminated, the confined space is inerted .
  • Corrective Actions:

IV. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Rescue

• [ ] Required PPE: All entrants are equipped with required PPE, including appropriate respiratory protection if needed 4, 7.
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Emergency Equipment: Appropriate emergency equipment is available at the entrance of the confined space 5, 6.
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Rescue Plan: A written rescue procedure is in place, including immediate evacuation procedures 5, 6.
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Communication System: A communication system is established for communication between the entrant and attendant 4, 9.
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Trained Personnel: Workers assigned duties related to confined space entry are trained in hazard recognition and safe work practices .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Rescue Competency: Competence in first aid, emergency response equipment, and confined space procedures is represented in the workers responding to emergencies .
  • Corrective Actions:

V. Continuous Monitoring & General Safety

• [ ] Continuous Monitoring (Atmospheric): If conditions warrant, continuous atmospheric monitoring is conducted .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Unauthorized Entry Prevention: Measures are in place to prevent unauthorized entry into the confined space .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Traffic Hazards: Workers are protected from hazards created by traffic in the vicinity of the confined space .
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Adequate Lighting: Sufficient lighting is provided for safe work inside the confined space.
  • Corrective Actions:
• [ ] Entry/Exit Sufficiency: The opening for entry and exit is sufficient for safe passage, especially when using PPE 16, 18.
  • Corrective Actions:

VI. Signatures

• Inspector: _____________________________
• Date: _________________________________
• Supervisor: ___________________________

VII. Follow-Up Actions

• List any follow-up actions required and the responsible person(s):

References:

• Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)
• Occupational Health and Safety Code
• Occupational Safety General Regulations (N.S. Reg. 44/99)
• Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020)
• Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 29 CFR 1910)
• Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon)