Posted By Peter Wright Has anyone out there got written procedures for confined space entry that they are willing to let me have a copy of. No point in reinventing the wheel on such generic procedure. Any help would be very much appreciated.

Posted By Merv Newman Peter, I think that sylvia's response is on the right lines - Be very, very careful. I suggest that, before you finalise whatever procedure you are preparing, get some advice and training from an expert. For example - a separate risk assessment is required for each confined space. This needs to be updated for each operation and kept up-to-date throughout that operation. ie the level of risk needs to be re-evaluated/confirmed on a number of predefined occasions during the intervention.(and this is only PART of the procedure) I won't wish you good luck on this. Where confined spaces are concerned luck has nothing to do with it. Merv Newman

Posted By Gavin Gibson The best starting point is the ACOP of the Confined Space regs - it contains a step-by-step risk assessment to walk you through the issues. Be aware that confined space entry can be one of the most hazardous tasks that are carried out, you cannot simply replicate somebody else's procedure. If you need help why not contact the HSE, they are very helpful, or alternatively talk to other folk who carry out similar tasks in a similar field - find out how they approached the issue

Posted By Stuart Nagle Peter. Steve wood has hit the nail on the head I think. a confined space is a confined spaces after all said and done... Entry procedures, with the enphasis on the word 'entry' is fairly standard for the vast majority of confined spaces. It is the safe system of work and permit to work for each confined space that may differ greatly, even with manholes!! they too can be quite different in their construction, depth, means of access (ladders, step irons, footholes etc) and have different hazards in respect of contents, flow rates, location (close to tidal areas - below high tide levels etc) and difficulties in communication. Each entry needs to be assessed by a 'competent person' who is trained, experienced, and has knowledge of the tasks, methods, procedures, safety and test equipment, the personnel in the entry team as well as the top-man/men and their abilities, and the likely hazards and risks to be encountered. As I have said before, there are three distict groups of persons who die in confined spaces: 1) Those who know nothing about confined spaces but still enter, oblivious to the risk 2) Those who know (and are often experienced)but have become complacent about the risks due to overfamiliarity, and 3) Those who are trying to rescue others, even though they may be trained and experienced, and who, in the heat of the moment, forget their training and go in unprepared and ill equipped. Only recently (see HSE website) 4 person perished in a confined space, and even the rescue services are not immune to getting into difficulties in this area. If you're in doubt about anything, seek advice and make sure all your personnel are fit and well trained - especially in the use of gas monitors and breathing apparatus.

Posted By Roy Macpherson I too have emailed you directly, hope this is of use to you!