Construction Health and Safety

, 0

CONFINED SPACES
0

0 Section 23
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special acknowledgement is made to the following for their assistance in
the preparation of this Section:

AMEC plc
S. E. Bell Esq. Chartered Architect
Callsafe Services Ltd.
Construction Health and Safety Group
Construction Industry Training Board
Historic Royal Palaces Agency
National Water Council
Alfred McAlpine PLC
Tarmac Construction Ltd.
National Westminster Bank PLC
Balfour Beatty Ltd.
Richard Costain Ltd.
S. G. Ward, Esq., Industrial Safety Consultant
Wates Ltd.
John Laing Construction Ltd.
Norwest Hoist Construction Ltd.
Health and Safety Executive
Taylor Woodrow Construction Ltd.

CONTENTS
The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 2 3-3
Planning 23-3
Safe systems of work 23-3
Supervision 23-3
Personnel selection 23-4
Training 23-4
Access and egress 23-4
Toxic and flammable atmospheres 23-5
Atmosphere monitoring 23-5
Oxygen deficiency and enrichment 23-6
Permit-to-worksystems 23-6
Working precautions 23-7
Rescue 23-8
Breathing apparatus 23-9
Boreholes and sewers 23-9
Typical sequence of operations 23-1 1
Typical entry permit 23-12
Substances to be found in confined spaces 23-13
Method statement checklist - confined space work 23-14
References 23-15

NOTE
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy within
this work, no liability whatsoever is accepted by Construction
Health and Safety, its sponsoring organisations or their
advisers in respect of the information given.

No material from this book may be reproduced in any

shape or form without written permission from the publishers.

Printed in Great Britain by Arkle Print, 17 Gatelodge Close, Round Spinney Industrial Estate, Northampton NN3 8R.J
Published by the Construction Confederation,
Construction House, 56-64 Leonard Street, London EC2A 4JX

December 2000
 CONFINED SPACES
I. Introduction
For the purpose of safety the term "confined spaces" covers
a great variety of workplaces which have limited access and
inadequate ventilation. They are therefore potentially
dangerous places in which to work because they may trap
hazardous concentrations of toxic or flammable gases or
vapours. Confined spaces are also liable to become
deficient in oxygen due to the build-up of a gas or vapour
which is not itself toxic but which displaces the breathable
air. Very often the dangerous atmosphere i s a result of the
work being done - for instance welding, painting, flame
cutting, the use of adhesives and solvents.
At some time or another almost any place on a
construction site may become a confined space. Some are
quite obviously confined spaces - tanks, ducts, borehole
silos, manholes, furnaces, pipelines, sewers and under-
ground chambers. But serious accidents have occurred in the
past in such places as rooms which were ultimately to
become occupied rooms and which were therefore not
regarded as confined spaces when construction work was
going on in them. Everyday operations of the construction
industry often involve work in excavations, holes and so on,
which are recognised as confined spaces and may present a
danger of toxic, flammable or oxygen deficient atmospheres.
The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997
It is important to understand the change in emphasis,
compared with previous legislation, brought about by these
Regulations. The goal setting duties begin by considering
whether work can be done from outside the confined space,
insist that a safe system of work i s planned if entry i s
unavoidable and put in place emergency arrangements
which will also safeguard rescuers before work starts.
Confined Space
Under these Regulations a 'confined space' has two defining
features. Firstly it is a place which is substantially (though not
always entirely) enclosed, and secondly there is the
presence of a reasonably foreseeable 'specified risk'.
The Regulations themselves define a confined space as
any place, including any chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench,
sewer, flue, well or other similar space in which, by virtue of
its enclosed nature, there arises a reasonably foreseeable
specified risk.
Specified Risk
The term "specified risk" means a risk of serious injury to a
person arising out of fire and explosion and, without
preiudice to this risk, the loss of consciousness of a person
due to an increase in body temperature, asphyxiation by
gases, or oxygen deficiency. It also covers drowning of a
person due to an increase in the level of a liquid,
asphyxiation by solid materials which can flow, or
entrapment by such substances, so as to render the person
unable to reach a safe place.
Duties
The Regulations lay down the duties of employers and the
self-employed. Where either party has work in confined
spaces where the work i s under their control, they have a
duty to comply with the Regulations in respect of their own
employees or themselves. They must also liaise with and
cooperate with others to agree the respective responsibilities
in terms of the Regulations and duties.
Work
Employers and the self employed must carefully consider
whether a person needs to enter a confined space. Those
responsible for planning should use risk assessment criteria
to determine if the work can be carried out from outside the
confined space.
June 2001
If work cannot be done without entering the confined
space, then it is necessary to determine what measures need
to be taken to secure the safety of workers and others who
may be affected by the work.
It is essential that effective forward planning is carried out.
Emergency Procedures
The Regulations call for the preparation of suitable and
sufficient measures to be taken to ensure the safe rescue of a
person in an emergency, before a person enters a confined
space. The arrangements must also consider the safety of
rescuers. Good practices in planning and carrying out
emergency and safe rescue procedures are to be found
under the appropriate headings later in this section.
Planning
The special conditions of confined space working make it
vital that the work should be planned in detail.
The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations
1999 (see Section OB) require that a suitable and sufficient
risk assessment is made in order to determine appropriate
health and safety measures and emergency arrangements.
These measures should be incorporated in a safe system of
work, as required by Section 2 (2)(a) of the Health and
Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974 and included in the health
and safety plan which the principal contractor has
developed in accordance with the Construction (Design &
Management) Regulations I994 (as amended) (see Section
OC). Designers have a duty under Regulation 13 of the
Construction (Design L? Management) Regulations to avoid
foreseeable risks in the design of structures and therefore to
avoid, through design, the creation of confined spaces.
Whenever work i s specified which by its nature may have to
be carried out in a confined space, the hazard should be
identified for inclusion in the health and safety plan. (see
Section OC).
A checklist for the production and checking of method
statements relating to confined space working is provided at
the end of this section.
Safe systems of work
Definition: An agreed, set sequence of operations, using
guards, safety devices and protective equipment, so as to
complete a lob safely and without danger to health.
They can be classified broadly into three areas:
( I ) simple systems covering safety equipment
(2) formal procedures for carrying out work processes
(e.g. entry into confined spaces)
(3) special applications (lock-& systems).
The following measures are priorities:
(a) test atmosphere prior to entry
(b) continuous monitoring at the workface
(c) maintain contact between operative and attendant in
free air who i s trained to carry out emergency
procedures.
Supervision
The findings of the risk assessment will determine the
-
degree of supervision required. In some cases an employer
may nominate to supervise the work, an employee who is to
make periodic checks. In most cases however, the level of
risk is likely to be such as to require constant supervision,
coupled with the operation of a permit to work system.
Personnel selection
Persons who will be expected to work in confined spaces
must be physically and mentally suitable. It is no iob for the
claustrophobic or the foolhardy. It is recommended that
employees taken on for such work are over 18 years and
preferably under 50 years of age. Heavy manual tasks, with
the necessity for rescue training and the possible added
burden of working in breathing apparatus may make the iob
too demanding for older men. Men of 50 and over who are
already employed on work in confined spaces should be
medically examined annually, and additionally after any
illness.
N m n e with any of the following disabilities should work
in confined spaces:
( 1 ) a history of fits, blackouts or fainting attacks
(2) a history of heart disease or heart disorders
(3) high blood pressure
(4) asthma, bronchitis or shortness of breath on
exertion
(5) deafness
(6) Meniere's disease or any illness causing
giddiness or loss of balance
(7) claustrophobia or other nervous or mental
disorder
(8) back pain or joint trouble that would limit
mobility in a cramped space
(9) deformity or disease of the lower limbs limiting
movement
(1 0) chronic skin disease
(1 1) serious defect in eyesight
(1 2) lack of sense of smell
Training
Work in confined spaces must only be undertaken by
employees who have been properly trained for the job.
It is the employer's duty under Section 2(2)c of the Health
and Safety at Work Act to provide such information,
instruction, training and supervision as i s necessary to
ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and
safety at work of his employees.
Training must be planned specifically for:
(1 ) supervision
(2) persons who will be expected to enter confined
spaces to work in them
(3) persons who will act as attendants
(4) persons appointed to form a rescue team.
The precise form of the training and instruction must
depend on the individual operations, but in addition to any
specialised training for particular tasks, general training for
work in confined spaces should include:
(1) observance of the safe system of work (permit-towork)
(2) instruction on the suitable types of breathing apparatus,
and practice in their use, care and maintenance
(3) instruction in the use of atmosphere testing equipment
(4) training in the procedures for rescue, including the
correct use and maintenance of rescue equipment and
resuscitation equipment
(5) instruction in first aid, treatment of shock, resuscitation
(6) instruction and practice in the correct procedures in
emergencies, especially evacuation
(7) instruction and practice in the correct use of fire fighting
equipment
(8) (where applicable) observance of personal hygiene
rules to avoid health risks
(9) (where available and applicable) the use of mobile
radio
Instruction in the use and maintenance of equipment can
often be given by the manufacturer.
Practice drills are an essential part of training theoretical
knowledge is not enough to ensure that the right action will
be taken in a real emergency. The use of breathing
apparatus especially should be practiced regularly, also the
procedures for emergency evacuation.
The drill should ensure that employees acquire a sound
working knowledge of the signal communicating system to
be used between persons working in the confined space and
those in attendance outside. They must also learn the correct
procedure for summoning medical aid or the emergency
services, and the use and maintenance of any recovery
winches and/or other methods of recovery.
It i s important that employees should learn to recognise
situations requiring the use of respiratory protective
equipment, and be able to identify the appropriate
atmos here testing equipment.
P
Re resher courses should be given as necessary on a
regular basis. It i s important that a full and up to date record
should be kept of the type of training given to each
individual.
Access and egress
Experience has shown that the minimum size of an
opening to allow access with full facilities including self-
contained breathing apparatus is 575mm diameter. This
size should normally be used for new plant, although the
openings for some confined spaces may need to be larger
depending on the circumstances.
Existing plant may have narrower openings. It will
therefore be necessary to check that a person wearing
suitable equipment can safely and readily pass through
such openings. Examples of plant where there are narrower
openings include rail tank wagons and tank containers
where an opening of 500mm diameter is common, and in
road tankers where the recognised size is 41 Omm.
The size and number of access and egress points should
be assessed individually dependent upon the activities
being carried out and the number of people involved. Large
scale evacuations may need larger routes and openings to
prevent them becoming bottlenecks.
Different criteria apply when the critical entry
dimensions extend over a significant length or height,
as in the case of sewers, pipes, culverts, small tunnels
and shafts. For example, it i s recommended that people
should not normally enter sewers of dimensions smaller
than 0.9m high by 0.6m wide. Even this 'minimum size'
may in certain circumstances be too small for reliance
on a safe system of work alone. Additional measures
may be needed, for example if there i s a
distance between access points. In the case of a sha longt
containing a ladder or step irons, 900mm clear space i s
recommended between the ladder/steps and the back of
the shaft.
Standards relevant to manholes and other access to
confined spaces
December 2000
 The following standards include contaminated with dangerous dust, fumes or gases.
Atmospheric testing should be carried out by a competent
I 0 BRITISH
STANDARD TITLE
MINIMUM
OPENING
person who has knowledge of existing standards for the
airborne contaminants being monitored and is trained in
the risks involved. No-one must be allowed to enter until a
BS8007: Design of concrete
competent person is satisfied that entry i s safe. .
1987 structures for retaining
The requirements of the Control of Substances Hazardous
aaueous fluids 600mm x 900mm
to Health Regulations 1994, to assess the risks from
Silos UK: Draft design exposure to any fumes or gases and to take suitable steps to
code for silos, bins, prevent or control such exposure, also apply (see Section 25
bunkers hoppers 600mm x 600mm - Hazards to Health).
An atmosphere which is safe on entry may become unsafe
03005: Guide to new
through any of the reasons given above, and continuous
Sewerage sewerage construction 600mm x 600mm sewers less
monitoring i s therefore necessary while persons are working
Part 1 than 1 m 1987 diameter, except
inside.
for very shallow manholes
The odour of gases i s useful in giving an early indication
where this dimension may be
of possible danger, but it must not be relied on without the
550mm
back-up of atmosphere testing instruments. The sense of smell
varies greatly from person to person and is poor in the older
age groups. Some dangerous gases have no smell (for
instance carbon monoxide and methane) and others
Toxic and flammable atmospheres paralyse the sense of smell (for example hydrogen sulphide).
In the context of confined space work the term "nontoxic"
Further guidance on atmospheric testing i s given under
can be dangerously misleading. In a small unventilated
"Permit-toenter" on p 23-6.
space any of the whole range of gases and vapours found in
' 0 industry, in sufficiently high concentration, could create an
atmosphere that i s not safe to breathe.
Oxygen deficiency
Without any poisonous gas being present the
Contaminants can arise from:
atmosphere may become lethal through depletion of
oxygen. Normal air contains about 2 1 % oxygen, 79%
the space itself (e.g. leaded petrol tanks)
nitrogen. Below 17%oxygen a flame will not burn and the
atmosphere i s not fit to breathe.
earlier process (e.g. degreasing, in which case a
The person working in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere
residue of trichiorethylene solvent in the tank could emit
may not be aware that he is in danger, consequently
fumes when the sludge is cleaned off.)
symptoms such as breathlessness, faintness, lack of
physical co-ordination, should lead to immediate
previous contents. Special care i s needed where
evacuation, since unconsciousness can follow rapidly and
confined spaces such as tanks have previously
unexpectedly.
contained flammable, explosive or toxic materials, and
where the work being done could create vapour from
Several different situations can lead to an oxygen-
the remains of the previous contents. This particularly
deficient atmosphere:
refers to hot work (e.g. cutting and welding) and also
to the use of solvents, since "empty" containers
invariably contain sufficient residue to create a hazard
in such circumstances. It i s therefore essential to know (1 ) After purging with gas. If persons must enter or
even approach a confined space which has been
the previous contents so that the planned precautions
purged with a gas such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen,
are appropriate for the particular substance.
precautions should be taken to ensure that there i s
adequate oxygen. The gas should in turn be purged by
adjoining plant. Gas or vapour may enter the
air. Particularly thorough atmospheric testing is
confined space from adioining plant if it has not been
necessary especiolly at low levels before persons are
effectively isolated. To prevent exhaust fumes from
allowed to enter, since even after ventilation with fresh
entering a confined space and causing a hazard,
air there may still be a deficiency of oxygen at certain
vehicles should not be sited near the entrance.
levels due to the tendency of the purging gas to remain
there in layers.
nearby undertakings. Where any deep narrow
excavation (e.g. borehole) i s adjacent to spoil
heaps, sewage works, gas works, old drainage (2) Rusting process. Where a steel vessel has been
closed for some considerable time, the oxygen in the air
systems, chemical works or refineries, there i s a danger
may have become absorbed on to the inner surface of
of seepage into the confined space. Air testing
the vessel through the rusting process. The presence of
must be carried out before entry and thereafter at
moisture inside a steel vessel increases the likelihood of
intervals for oxygen deficiency and toxic or flammable
this occurring.
gases.
An atmosphere which i s not fit to breathe may exist
at the bottom of a hole from stagnant water or from the
(3) Contaminated soil. Oxygen deficiency and
concentrations of carbon dioxide may be encountered
subsoil itself; the passage of water through chalk, for
in tunnels or deep excavations on land contaminated
instance, can release carbon dioxide.
with coal waste or decaying organic matter. Slow
oxidation of buried coal waste and microbiological
Atmosphere testing and monitoring decay of organic matter takes up the oxygen of the air
Regulation 4 of the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997
in the surrounding soil leaving a nitrogen gas mixture
and Regulation 23 of the Construction (Health, Sofey &
deficient in oxygen and rich in carbon dioxide. Falling
Welfare) Regulations I996 requires that every workplace
atmospheric pressure would allow this gaseous mixture
must be adequately ventilated to ensure that it i s safe. in
to seep into tunnels or deep excavations in the
confined spaces, forced ventilation must be provided if
contaminated ground.
there is any risk of the air becoming deficient in oxygen or

December 2000
 (4) Decay of organic matter. Oxygen deficiency can
result (for example in sewers or excavations in
contaminated soil) from the absorption or biochemical
depletion of the available oxygen by organic matter.
Ox gen enrichment
K
T e opposite condition, an oxygenenriched atmosphere,
can be equally dangerous. With an excess of oxygen in the
air some substances containing organic matter become
liable to spontaneous combustion. Grease and oil, for
instance, may self-ignite, and also paint, plastics, textiles,
paper and wood.
Oxygen in more than its normal proportions in the air
also greatly increases the combustibility of all other
materials. A fire in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere develops
I
with great speed and ferocity and may be particularly
difficult to extinguish.
The atmosphere can accidentally become too rich in
oxygen as a result of work which releases extra oxygen into
the air, for instance oxy-propane cutting.
It i s dangerous to purge with oxygen instead of air, and
in no circumstances should oxygen be introduced into a
confined space to "sweeten" the air or to provide ventilation.
A leak of liquid oxygen or oxygen gas must be treated as a
I serious matter.
Permit-to-work
For work in confined spaces the most satisfactory way of
ensuring a safe system of work is by observing a permit-to
work system.
The permit-towork is an operational document prepared
by a responsible person who is familiar with the work p r o
cedures, the hazards and all necessary precautions and
who has carried out a thorough assessment of the situation.
Typical sequences of operations which will be produced
from such assessments are shown on the flow chart on p.23
- 1 1 . It is important to understand that the use of such a flow
chart is entirely dependent on the use of trained and
competent persons to work in, and supervise work in,
confined spaces.
The permit gives written authority for the confined space
to be entered and the work to start, and lays down the time
when it must stop. It sets out the correct sequence of work,
the precise way in which the work is to be done, the
responsibilities of all persons involved, and the safety checks
made and all the precautions taken. The permit-to-workis not
issued until the responsible person has put his signature to
this record, signifying that every step in the sequence of
safety checks has been taken.
Formulating the permit-to-work system
A typical permit-to-work system would lay down:
(1) methods to be adopted for testing the atmosphere of
the confined space.
These must be carried out before:
(a) it is certified as being safe to enter
(b) safety precautions to be taken on entry are
specified.
As far as possible tests should be made from outside the
confined space.
(2) instructions as to the monitoring equipment to be
taken in for continuous or periodic monitoring of the
atmosphere.
(3) the methods by which the confined space to be entered
should (if appropriate) be withdrawn from service
and/or adequately isolated so that other personnel
cannot open valves or activate machinery while
persons are working in the confined space. Warning
notices should be displayed.
the precautions to be taken to prevent any potentially
dangerous materials from entering while persons are
inside, by completely disconnecting the space from
every other item of plant or process. This would
cover, for instance, the procedure for isolating the
confined space to prevent the entry of any
substances which could harm the men working
therein - for example steam, hot water, fumes, etc.
Where the workers in the confined space could be at
risk from machiner or any moving parts, the permit-
to-work must certi$ that the right steps have been
taken to isolate all sources of power.
methods by which all solid, liquid or gaseous
materials liable to present a hazard to persons
working inside the confined space are to be
removed. Cleaning should wherever practicable be
done from outside the confined space. Where it i s
necessary for someone to enter to remove sludge,
etc., suitable breathing apparatus and, where
practicable, a safety line must be worn, and rescue
personnel and equipment must be available.
The method of cleaning must depend on the nature of
the materials to be removed (see "Not safe to enter").
the limitations on the permit-to-work, for instance
stating the particular plant to which it refers, the type
of operation to be carried out and clear indications
that the permit extends only to that plant and those
operations. The time of expiry should be stated and
the reasons explained to those affected by it.
the time of expiry of the permit-to-work. All
employees working in the confined space must know
the time at which the certificate expires, and the
reasons for the time limit.
When the responsible person makes out the permit-to-
work certificate it will state the safety measures which have
been taken (e.g. isolation, cleaning, purging, testing) and
the precautions which he considers necessary for entry (e.g.
ventilation, breathing apparatus, lifeline, reviving
apparatus).
It is important to maintain records of all permits-towork.
The original should be displayed close to the lob, and a
carbon copy kept in the records.
Permit-to-enter
It i s normal for entry into any confined space to be
controlled by the issue of a separate entry permit. An
example of such a permit is given on p 23-12. The
composition of this sort of permit would naturally be
dependent on the safe system of work resulting from the risk
assessment of the confined space for which it was intended.
Further guidance on permit-tc-work systems is referred to in
the references on page 23-14.
A written permit-to-enter will be given only after
exhaustive tests to ensure that the atmosphere is safe to
breathe. Suitably calibrated chemical detector tubes may be
used and further guidance on the monitoring of toxic
substances is given in HSE Guidance Note EH 42. Portable
oxygen meters are available to test the adequacy of oxygen
for respiration.
The use of an explosimeter is not normally satisfactory for
assessing possible toxic risks since the air could become
harmful to breathe at a very much lower concentration than
is necessary to produce risks of explosion. When a test has
to be made for flammability or explosibility using an
explosimeter (for example, before entry wearing breathing
apparatus) then it is particularly important that the equip
ment used is well maintained, and calibrated before use.
Local offices of the Health and Safety Executive will on
request supply the names of firms from whom specialist
atmosphere testing devices can be obtained.
December 2000
 It is important that the atmosphere is tested throughout the
whole volume of the space, as contaminants can vary from
I. place to place. If it is necessary for a person to enter a
confined space to carry out the test, he should wear suitable
approved breathing apparatus (not a canister respirator)
and o safety harness and lifeline, attached to suitable
attended lifting equipment outside the confined space.
Resuscitation apparatus ready for immediate use should
be kept close at hand during such operations and a
communications system established with an attendant in a
safe position outside.
If an emergency arises through a deterioration in the
quality of the air, the permit-to-enter must be cancelled and a
fresh permit issued only when all the requisite tests have
confirmed that the atmosphere is once again safe to enter.
The rule that no-one may go into a confined space
without the authority of the responsible person must not be
relaxed in an emergency. Multiple fatalities have occurred
on many occasions where would-be rescuers have gone into
a confined space without stopping to think and without
breathing apparatus, with the intention of pulling out a man
who has collapsed - only to collapse on top of him and have
themselves to be rescued.
Not safe to enter
If pre-entry tests indicate that the atmosphere is not safe,
forced ventilation and extraction must be introduced to
achieve a satisfactory circulation of fresh air, at a supply
which varies according to the circumstances. A rate of
1 Sm3 per person per minute i s recommended as desirable;
however, the quantity necessary will depend on the
concentration of pollutant gases or fumes and the need to
dilute or disperse them.
Methods can be:
(1 ) by using compressed air:
(a) by compressed air cylinders - a suitable reducing
valve must be used and the cylinder kept outside
the confined space
(b) by the use of a compressor and/or compressor and
air mover. The compressor should be sited so that
its air intake cannot take in contaminated air (for
instance exhaust gases from vehicles). The
discharge from the compressor air receiver should
be fitted with an oil mist filter to clean the air being
introduced into the confined space.
(2) by using a blower fan and trunking - again the fan
intake should be sited so that i t cannot take in
conto minated air.
(3) using an exhaust fan or ejector and trunking
(provided there is an adequate supply of fresh air to
replace the air exhausted).
In all cases the air line or trunking should reach the
bottom of the confined space to ensure removal of heavy gas
or vapour and effective circulation of air. It is repeated that
oxygen should never be introduced into confined spaces,
because of the extreme fire risk it creates.
The method of cleaning to be used must depend on the
nature of the materials concerned; steam cleaning, washing
with water, the use of solvents or neutralising agents or
(where the confined space has contained flammable gas or
vapour) purging with an inert gas such as nitrogen or
carbon dioxide to avoid the formation of an explosive
mixture with air when the confined space is opened up (see
precautions against oxygen deficiency p.23-5).
Details of the various cleaning methods for tanks
and other confined spaces are given in HSE Guidance Note
CS 15.
December 2000
Working precautions
Carrying out a job in a confined space often entails working
in cramped conditions, so work shifts should be broken at
intervals by rest periods which the worker should spend in
fresh air. He must in any case leave the confined space at
the expiry of the time limit on the permit-to-work.
People wearing breathing apparatus in confined spaces
have sometimes been caught in fires and explosions. As a
safeguard, i t i s essential to maintain adequate forced
ventilation to prevent the concentration of a flammable gas
or vapour rising above one quarter of its lower explosive
limit (the lowest concentration of the gas or vapour at which
it forms an explosive mixture with air). It i s considered good
ractice to maintain the flammable gas concentration at
gelow 5% of the LEL. This allows a wider safety margin if the
gas concentration could fluctuate widely. The efficiency of
the ventilation should be monitored by testing the
atmosphere frequently with a correctly calibrated
explosimeter, or similar testing device.
"No smoking - no naked lights" must be the rule in and
near all confined space operations. Only non-sparking tools
must be used, and no nylon lines or nylon clothing allowed
because of the danger of generating a spark from static
electricity.
All electrical tools and lighting must be of the flameproof
or intrinsically safe type. The British Approvals Service for
Electrical Equipment in Flammable Atmospheres defines
"intrinsically safe" as "Systems comprising apparatus and
interconnectin wiring in which any spark or thermal effect
B
in any part o the system for use in the hazardous area is
incapable, under prescribed conditions, of causing ignition
of a given gas or vapour". (BASEEFA Certification Standard
SFA 301 2). Intrinsically safe i s also defined in BS 1259.
Cylinders containing compressed gases, or any lines or
equipment connected to cylinders outside the confined
space, should be removed at meal breaks, shift changes or
whenever that space is left unattended.
Rescue I
The procedure for rescue in an emergency should be set out
clearl in the permit-to-work, with specific iobs allocated to
specilc persons.
Training (see p.23-8) should ensure that if a rescue
becomes necessary, all persons concerned are thoroughly
familiar with the routine procedures through frequent
practice drills.
The communication system must not rely on any method
(for instance, blowing whistles) which becomes impossible
when breathing apparatus is being worn. signals by means
of rope can also be unreliable, since if the rope snags
communication is lost.
At the same time a danger alert must not rely on a signal
given by the worker inside the confined space, since if he is
overcome suddenly he will be in no condition to give the
alarm, and he may be working alone. If space allows,
therefore, a minimum of two men should enter a confined
space when working out of sight of the external observer.
Communication must be of a fail-safe type - that is to say, if
the worker inside the confined space does NOT take the
right action, the alarm is given. For instance, if a periodic
prearranged signal is NOT received at the end of the
normal interval, it betokens trouble.
In some workplaces a regular shout from the man outside
to the one inside works well; if no answer is heard, the
outside man starts the emergency procedures.
The essentials for rescuing someone from a confined
space are that:
(1) the outside observer must have means of knowing
immediately that a man is gassed or has met with an
accident.
 (2) the rescue team, alerted by the observer, must get the
casualty out into free air speedily.
(3) the casualty must be given first aid quickly, either at
the work location or immediately he is brought out
into free air, and the appropriate medical attention
as soon thereafter as possible.
Rescue equipment
The rescue equipment should include breathing apparatus,
resuscitation apparatus and oxygen. It should include:
(1) 2 safety harnesses with adequate length of rope
taking account of the workplace location.
(2) intrinsically safe hand torches or cap lamps.
(3) at least 1 set of suitable breathing apparatus and
emergency breathing pack.
(4) first aid equipment.
(5) fire fighting apparatus.
(6) emergency breathing pack.
(7) audible alarm for summoning help.
(8) resuscitation equipment.
(9) means of communication with the surface observer.
Entry for rescue
Where the casualty has had an accident and i s injured in an
atmosphere certified on entry as safe, rescuers can enter
without breathing apparatus provided there are no
indications that the atmosphere has become unsafe.
Where, however, the casualty has collapsed and the
cause i s not known, then rescuers must wear breathing
apparatus. This applies even if, when the person entered
the confined space, i t was certified as safe to enter. The
reason for the collapse could be an overall deterioration
in the atmosphere since entry was made, or a
deterioration in the particular area where the casualty has
been overcome.
Apart from the paramount necessity of rescuing a worker
who has been overcome, if gas is suspected the emergency
procedure must provide for the immediate evacuation of
any other person who may be within the confined space. A
system of audible ”evacuate” alarms operated by the
observer outside should always be installed if persons have
to work out of the sight of the observer at some distance from
the openings.
If fire has broken out, or flammable gas is suspected, a
pre-arranged procedure must provide for the immediate
summoning of the fire brigade.
Emergency plans should be discussed with the local
emergency services fire, police and ambulance - so that the
best use can be made of their expertise and facilities. If it is
practicable, there is great advantage in having an
emergency practice with all the services participating.
Breathing apparatus
Breathing apparatus is used for work in confined spaces
when the atmosphere is not safe to breathe. The equipment
consists of a properly fitted helmet or facepiece, by means of
which the wearer can breathe uncontaminated air; either
drawn from fresh air; or supplied by compressed air. All
breathing apparatus supplied after 30 June 1995 must carry
to the CE mark. Equipment in use prior to 1 July 1995 must
be ty e approved by the HSE, as listed on form F2501
P
Certi icate of Approval (breathing apparatus). Further
information is given in Section 18 - Protective Clothing and
Equipment.
The following are relevant types:
(1) Fresh air breathing apparatus
Supplied by air line from fresh air in response to the
r
wearer’s own respiratory effort, or assisted b a blower. There
must always be an attendant on duty at the ree air end.
The advantage of this type is that there is no time limit on
the supply of air. The disadvantage i s the limitation on
movement imposed by the air line (it must not be more than
9m from fresh air) and the risk of the line becoming snagged.
(2) Air line breathing apparatus
Supplied with compressed air by air line from a
compressor or cylinders. In either case an attendant must
always be on duty at the supply end to monitor the
uninterrupted supply of compressed air.
If the air is supplied by a compressor; care must be taken
to see that the compressed air delivered to the breathing
apparatus wearer i s pure and uncontaminated by oil,
exhaust gases or any other pollutants.
Again the advantage is the unlimited supply of air; the
disadvantage is the presence of the air line.
Where access to a confined space is too small for a man
to enter wearing self-contained breathing apparatus with
cylinders, or where it is not possible to site a compressor unit
nearby, a mobile breathing apparatus unit (hose reel and
trolley set) is useful.
(3) Self-containedbreathing apparatus
Supplied by compressed air from cylinders carried on the
user’s back.
This type is free from the disadvantage of a trailing air
line, and it allows the man to be supplied with compressed
air or whatever mixture of gases i s suitable in the
circumstances, and to move freely. The disadvantages are
obvious, (1) entry through a small manhole is not possible
wearing a cylinder pack; working in a cramped space i s
also impossible, (2) the weight of the pack, (13-18kg),
imposes a considerable extra work load on the wearer; (3)
the limited duration of the air in the cylinder; which
decreases in heavy work.
This type of breathing apparatus is only suitable for light
work of short duration in larger confined spaces (for
example, inspection, air testing, etc., or rescue work).
(4) Escape breathing apparatus
Self-contained breathing apparatus with small cylinder.
Its purpose i s simply to provide enough respirable air in an
irrespirable atmosphere to give the wearer time to escape.
The breathing apparatus should be well fitting and
properly worn, as accidents have occurred due to the
displacement of a face- or mouth-piece. It is better; when
using an air line type of breathing apparatus, to take filtered
air from a supply at such a rate that a positive pressure is
maintained inside the face-piece.
Apparatus of the canister respirator or cartridge
type should not be used for any operations in
confined spaces. Such equipment does not provide
adequate protection against high concentrations of
contaminants, and is useless in atmospheres
where there is a deficiency of oxygen.
All breathing apparatus must be thoroughly examined at
least once every month by a competent person authorised
by certificate to carry out such examinations, and
inspected, tested and certified at intervals not exceeding six
months. Additionally, breathing apparatus should be
inspected and tested after use, and when it i s brought on to
a new site.
December 2000
 The manufacturers' instructions should be followed
regarding regular maintenance. Spare fully-charged air
cylinders should always be stored near to the breathing
apparatus.
In a11 situations where breathing apparatus i s required for
, resuscitation equipment must be kept available
at a11 times or dealing with emergency situations.
safe
Where practicable, the types of breathing apparatus
used in an organisation should be standardised. This
reduces maintenance and spares problems, and simplifies
operator training.
Personnel
People who will or may have to use breathing apparatus
must be fit, and not suffering from any chronic or acute
respiratory ailment. And they must be properly trained in the
use of the equipment.
Training, given by a qualified person, should include:
(1) instruction in the hazards which necessitate the use
of breathing apparatus.
(2) information on the equipment, its mode of operation
and its limitations.
(3) instruction on the care and cleaning of apparatus.
(4) instructions on how to don the equipment, adjust the
facepiece and supply valves where necessary, and
to test for leaks around the face-piece (beards and
facial hair may prevent an air-tight seal).
(5)how to deal with malfunctions and failures of
equipment during use.
(6) instruction on the use of breathing apparatus in
emergency procedures.
(7) the functions and limitations of escape breathing
apparatus.
Maintenance and servicing of breathing apparatus should
be in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions, and
carried out only by trained personnel. It is most important
that training should include practice in the use of breathing
apparatus, and practice drills in emergency procedures
under simulated emergency conditions.
Boreholes
Boreholes present the combined hazards of confined
spaces and excavations. Thus for work in deep boreholes all
the precautions set out for work in confined spaces must be
followed, and also safeguards against the dangers in
excavating (see Section 8B - Excavation). BS 5573 gives
further details of safe procedures.
Working precautions
Men should not be allowed to enter holes less than 750mm
in diameter; and no-one should remain in the hole for more
than one hour at a time. Safety helmets should be worn the
whole of the time anyone is descending into, working in, or
being lifted from, a borehole.
Descent should be by means of suitable open skips
adapted for ersonnel excavating and cleaning out in under-
P
reams, and itted with an anti-spin device, suspended safety
chairs complying with BS 2830, rescue harness, or roofed
safety cages for inspection purposes. Neither the people
working near the entrance nor the person descending into a
hole should carry any loose tools.
Lifting and lowering should be by means of properly
constructed cranes, winches, sheerlegs or other appliances
suitable for the purposes, and properly maintained. The
December 2000
power source of the lifting appliance should be kept running
the whole time someone is below ground.
A banksmen should be in attendance while persons are
being raised or lowered unless the operator of the lifting
appliance can see and hear persons at the bottom of the
hole throughout the entire operation.
A responsible supervisor experienced in the work should
be in charge at all times. Men new to the work should be
accompanied by an experienced person the first time they
go below. If the hole is too small to allow two men to enter;
an experienced person should always make a preliminary
descent to ensure that there i s no danger.
Rescue
To help in recovery in the event of an emergency, a rescue
harness which ensures that an unconscious man can be lifted
in an upright position, should always be worn by men
working down a hole. The equipment chosen for attaching
the hoist rope to the housing must be such as to facilitate
quick action.
Either a number of operatives on a site should possess
a certificate of training in "Rescue from deep boreholes"
issued by a recognised training body; or an initial drill,
supervised by a trained operative, should be carried
out within the first week on site. Thereafter emergency
rescue drills should be carried out at intervals of no more
than three months. It i s desirable that a set of printed
rescue drill instructions be issued and displayed on each
site.
It is essential that all equipment i s tested regularly to
ensure that i t is in good working order and capable of
reaching to the maximum depth of the borehole.
Additional to the precautions for confined spaces, work in
sewers necessitates safeguards against (1) drowning or
being swept away, (2) bacterial infection.
Drowning and/or being swept away
200mm of water in a fast flowing sewer i s difficult to
stand against and 600mm of water i s a danger. Conditions
in a sewer can change very quickly, and workers should be
able to recognise indications of danger such as:
(1) movement of air through the sewer.
(2) increase in depth or velocity of the stream.
(3) noise of approaching water.
In any of these conditions immediate evacuation must be
carried out. Preliminary precautions during the planning of
the work should include:
( 1 ) a system whereby a forecast of local weather
conditions is obtained periodically.
(2) establishment of local control procedures in
collaboration with sources of large amounts of
industrial effluents.
(3) collaboration with emergency services so that
contingency plans can be established to enable
those in control of sewer operations to be alerted to
the possible danger if; for instance, harmful or
flammable substances are released into the drains as
a result of a road accident or other emergency.
 Chains or bars should be fixed downstream of the working
place before work starts. Wherever necessary for safety,
running lines should be fixed for men to clip on to them.
, Bacterial infection
Infection can arise (mainly in foul sewers) from rats' urine
(Weil's disease) from putrefying solids, or in discharges from
hospitals, and on occasion, general discharges during
epidemics of contagious disease.
A kind of infective iaundice, Weil's disease or
Leptospirosis (a prescribed disease under the Industrial
lniuries Act) i s usually a mild illness if treated in the early
stages, but it can be a serious illness if i t remains
unrecognised and therefore the patient i s not given the
appropriate treatment. It starts with flu-like symptoms, and to
safeguard against a wrong diagnosis men who will be
working in sewers should be provided with a card to present
to their doctor which informs him of the man's occupation.
The disease is not conveyed from person to person, so
that a man's family is not at risk, and an attack confers a
certain amount of immunity.
It i s strongly recommended that anyone whose lob brings
him into possible contact with sewage, should be inoculated
against tetanus, poliomyelitis and hepatitis A and to have the
immunity maintained the whole time he is at work. Other
precautions against all these infections consist of good
personal hygiene. All workers should wear appropriate
protective clothing (which is thoroughly cleaned after each
work period) and avoid exposing the skin, as infection can
enter through abrasions.
Lanolin-basedbarrier cream should be used before work,
and after work the hands, face and forearms washed with
hot water and soap. The nails should be scrubbed, but not
the skin, as this can roughen the skin surface and increase
the risk of infection.
Even the smallest scratch should be washed and covered
with antiseptic dressing, and every accident, however trivial,
reported to the person in charge of the work.
Eating, drinking and smoking must not be allowed until
the personal hygiene rules have been observed. Routine
hygiene is easier to observe if mobile vans contain toilets,
proper hot water washing facilities and first aid on the site.
The eyes can be affected by exposure to contaminants,
whether solids, liquids or vapours. The hands should be kept
away from the face while at work. If the eyes become
accidentally splashed, or feel irritated, the affected person
should leave the workplace and obtain first aid.
Deteriorating atmosphere
Constant vigilance and continuous monitoring must be
maintained to guard against the hazards of the atmosphere
deteriorating during the working period. This can be
accounted for by chemicals being accidentally released into
the sewers, or an incident involving petroleum spillage.
Oxygen deficiency can be due to the ingress of other gases,
or oxygen absorption by sewage.
The gases most commonly found in sewers are hydrogen
sulphide(H2S) (flammable and toxic) and methane
(flammable and explosive in air). Both are generated during
the decomposition of organic matter and can be released
into the air as workers wade through the sewer, so that a
sewer certified as safe to enter may become unsafe as soon
as men set foot in it. Workers should be instructed to walk
slowly and cause as little disturbance of bottom sludge as
possible.
The characteristic smell of rotten eggs indicates low
concentrations of H2S, but at concentrations high enough to
be dangerous the gas paralyses the sense of smell, so the
absence of detectable smell is no guarantee of safety. H2S is
an acute irritant to the eyes and the respiratory passages,
massive inhalations can produce death by asphyxia.
Symptoms of exposure can be eye irritation, sickness,
dizziness, choking and lack of muscular control.
Any time that workers experience symptoms such as eye
irritation or any feeling of illness, it should be taken to
indicate a potentially dangerous situation and pre-
cautionary measures instituted immediately.
December 2000
 REQUEST FOR WORK TO BE

+
WORK CAN BE DONE
DONE IN A CONFINED SPACE

!
WORK ANNOT BE DONE
WITHOUT ENTRY WITHOUT ENTRY
I
WITHDRAW FROM SERVICE REFER TO SUPERVISOR IN CHARGE
$. OF PERMITS-TO-WORK
AUTHORIZE WORK
PROHIBIT ENTRY

WORK TO BE DONE
WITH BREATHING
I
WORK TO BE DONE

WITHOUT BREATHING

AppARATT
CHECK THAT THE WEARING
APPARATUSt
WITHDRAW FROM
OF BREATHING APPARATUS
IS PRACTICABLE INSIDE
THE PLANT AND DURING
I
ISOLATE PLANT OR
ACCESS AND EGRESS SECTION CONCERNED

1
WITHDRAW FROM SERVICE
$.
CHECK NO SOURCE OF
INGRESS OF GAS/

1
PLANT ORSECTION
ISOLATE
FUMES
REMOVE SLUDGE AND/
CONCERNED OR DEPOSITS IF

J
CHECK NO SOURCE OF
PRESENT J.
CLEAN INSIDE SURFACES
INGRESS OF DANGEROUS BY APPROPRIATE
MATERIAL (E.G. STEAM) METHOD
I VENTILATE THOROUGHLY
$.
TEST ATMOSPHERE INSIDE
I
+
NOT SAFE FOR ENTRY WITHOUT SAFE FOR ENTRY
BREATHING APPARATUS WITHOUT BREATHING
APPARATUS

REFER BACK FOR FURTHER APPROVE ENTRY WITH

CLEANING/PURGING AS SPECIFIED BREATHING
APPARATUS, LIFE LINE, ETC.
I

TlVE CLOTHING IF NEEDED

SECOND MAN OUTSIDE
RESCUE EQUIPMENT

+
REVIVING APPARATUS

ISSUE PERMIT-TO-WORKCERTIFICATE
SPECIFY TIME LIMIT

I I
WORK FINISHED INSIDE WORK NOT FINISHED INSIDE

LIM1i
WARN PERSONNEL
J.
REFER BACK TO SUPERVISOR
RETURN PERMIT FOR FOR RENEWAL OR NEW
CANCELLATION PERMIT

RETURN TO SERVICE

December 2000
 ENTRY PERMIT
ABC & Co. Ltd Permit N o ..............................................

Contract: ....................................................................................................

P This permit is VALID ONLY from .................... hours to ............ hours. Date ....................................................
A
R This p,ermit covers ENTRY ONLY to a confined space. All work entailed in effecting entry and after
.T entry shall be covered by the appropriate WORK PERMIT - See Part 3A below.
..................................................................................... ......................
1 Permit request no ..............................................................

1. The plont/equipment * IS isolated from all sources

......................
3. The equipment HAS been drained/vented*
4. Dangerous sludge and other deposits HAVE
5. Mechanical drives have been disconnected
6. Electrical circuits HAVE been locked off ................................................... ......................
7. The atmosphere HAS been tested and IS free from toxic ..
and flammable substances ...........................................

9 .....................................................
10. ........................

12. ........................

......................

......................

F Watcher(s) SHALL be posted

........................ .........................................................
................................................................................

*delete as applicable

AUTHORISATION
Signature of issuing authority: ............................................. Time: ................................ Date: ............................

P RECEIPT
A
R I have read this form and understand the special precautions to be taken prior to and during entry.
T Signed: ........................................ erson in charge of work) Time: ................................ Date: ............................

4 CLEARANCE
Work in the above enclosed space has been completed (or stopped) and the men in my charge withdrawn.
Signed: ........................................ erson in charge of work) Time: ................................ Date: ............................

CANCELLATION

All copies of this permit are hereby cancelled.

Signed: .................................................... issuing authority) Time: ................................ Date: ............................
-

December 2000
 SUBSTANCES WHICH MAY BE ENCOUNTERED IN CONFINED SPACES
,
0 Hazardous
substance Hazard
Occupational
exposure
limit ( pm
(See J t e IJ
lower
explosive
limit % Prevention
In case of
fire
(See Note 2j

Acetylene Asphyxiant and narcotic - Ventilation control Dry powder

Highly flammable and Cylinder care
explosive 2.5

Butane Asphyxiant and narcotic LT (OES)600 Ventilation control Dry powder

Highly flammable and ST (OES)750 Cylinder care
explosive 1.6

Carbon Asphyxiant LT (OES)5,000 Ventilation control -

dioxide ST (OES)15,000 -

Carbon Toxic, flammable and LT (0ES)SO ventilation control Dry powder

monoxide explosive ST (OES)400 12.5

Chlorine Highly toxic and LT (OES)1 .O Ventilation control

corrosive
Flammable by reaction
ST (OES13.0
-
Complete
suits
,
protective
.
:;!powder
with other materials

Hydrogen Asphyxiant - Ventilation control Dry powder

Hiahlv flammable and
“ I

explosive 4.1

Hydro en Highly toxic LT (0ES)lO Ventilation control Dry powder

sulphije Flammable ST (OES)15 4.3

Methane Asphyxiant - Ventilation control Dry powder

Highly flammable and
explosive 5.0

Ozone Highly toxic LT (0ES)O.l

- .. Ventilation control -

Nitrogen Asphyxiant. Liquid - - Ventilation control -

form causes severe
burns

Nitrogen Highly toxic LT (OES)3-25 - Ventilation control -

oxides and corrosive ST (OES)5-35

Petrol Toxic and highly - Ventilation control AFFF

flammable 1.3 Dry powder

Propane Asphyxiant - Ventilation control Dry powder

Highly flammable Cylinder care
and explosive 2.3

0 Toluene Toxic and narcotic

Highly flammable
LT ( 0 E S ) l O O
ST (OES)150 1.2
Ventilation control
Impermeable gloves
AFFF
Dry powder

Trichlor- Narcotic, may emit LT (MEL)lOO - Ventilation control -

ethylene highly toxic fumes in ST (MEL)150 Impermeable gloves
presence of hot work

Welding Dependent on metal LT (OES)5 Ventilation control -

fumes and rods used.
Mixture of ases, metal
and oxide Pumes may
contain zinc, cadmium
or lead
r enerally
other exposure
imits may apply)

-
Filter face masks.
Heat resistant
gloves and overolls.
Eye protection

White Flammable LT ( 0 E S ) l O O Ventilation control AFFF

spirit ST OES)1 25 1.1 Dry powder

Xylene Highly flammable and LT ( 0 E S ) l O O Ventilation control AFFF

narcotic ST (OES)150 1.1 Dry powder

-
Notes: 1 . LT (MEL) - Long-term maximum exposure limit (8 hour TWA)
ST (MEL) - Short-term maximum exposure limit ( 1 5 minute TWA)
LT (OES) - Recommended long-term occupation exposure standard (8 hour TWA)
ST (OES) - Recommended short-term occupational exposure standard (1 5 minute TWA)
PPm - Parts per million
For further information on occupational exposure limits, see p.25-7.
2. Other extinguishers, e.g. carbon dioxide, or vapourising liquid are effective on fires involving the above substances, but
should not be used without expert advice.

December 2000
 CHECKLIST FOR CONFINED SPACE W O R K METHOD STATEMENTS
Confined space work method statements
should normally include the following so far
a s is relevant in the circumstances :-
- Name and address of the contractor involved.
- Name and address of the site to which the method
statement relates.
- Names of the supervisor/foreman and appointed safety
adviser and arrangements for monitoring the work.
- Description of the work to be carried out.
- Details of the personnel to be used and their training/
experience.
- Details of the plant, equipment and/or substances to be
used within the confined space.
- Details of the possible hazards and any relevant tests of
the atmosphere.
- Details of any ventilation of the confined space which will
be undertaken.
- Arrangements for monitoring the otmosphere within the
confined space.
- Details of the arrangements for access into and egress
from the confined space.
- Details of the PPE to be used for the protection of the
persons working within the space.
Emer ency equipment and procedures
inclu3ny :-
- Rescue arness
- Lifting tripod or other suitable means to retrieve persons
from confined space.
- Emergency breathing apparatus.
- First aid kit.
- Surface observer and means of communication.
Note :-
This checklist is intended to aid the production and
approval of method statements. It is not an exhaustive list of
every possible issue that may need to be addressed for any
given task.
Refer to Section 1 for general information on method
statements.
December 2000
 REFERENCES
legislation Guidance
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 HSE Guidance Notes:
Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 CS 15 Cleaning and r s freeing of tanks
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations containing flamma le residues
1999 EH 40 Occupational ex osure limits
Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 1994
(as amended)
EH 43 Carbon monoxi e B
Construction (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1996 HSE Guidance Booklets:
Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 HS (G) 53 RPE - a practical guide for users
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Re ulations 1998 HS (G) 54 The maintenance, examination and testing
B
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regu ations 1998
1101
of local exhaust ventilation
Safe work in confined spaces: regulations,
Approved Codes of Practice approved code of practice and guidance
L22 Safe use of work equipment ACOP and
guidance HSE Leaflet
L1 13 Safe use of lifting equipment ACOP and CIS 15 Confined spaces
guidance
Guidance on permit to work system in the petroleum industry
Standards ISBN 7176 1281 3
BS 470 Access and inspection openings for
pressure vessels
BS EN 124 Training aids
BS 3367 Specification for fire brigade and industrial
ropes and rescue lines HSE Video (CIP Ltd. 0121 722 8200)
BS 4275 Recommendationsfor the selection, use and local Government Training Board
maintenance of respiratory protective Training Manual: Safety in Sewers
equipment National Water Council
BS 4683 Electrical apparatus for explosive Guideline No.2: Safe working in sewers and at sewage
atmospheres. Types of protection works
BSEN 1231 Guideline No.3: Respiratory protective equipment
BS EN
60079-1 4
BS 5501 Electrical apparatus for potentially All of the above reference material is available from:
explosive atmospheres CIP Ltd.,
BS 8008 60 New Coventry Road, Sheldon,
BS EN 50073 Birmingham, 826 3AY
BS EN 137 Selfcontained open circuit breathing Tel: 0121 722 8200
apparatus Fox: 0121 722 8201
BS EN 138 Fresh air breathing apparatus email chevim@constructconfed.co.uk
BS EN 139 Compressed air line breathing apparatus
BS EN 145 Self-contained closed circuit breathing
apparatus
BS EN 270 Compressed air line breathing apparatus
incorporating a hood

December 2001