Confined Space Entry Permit
Purpose of Permit
An entry permit is a document prepared by the employer or employer representative.
It is designed to be used as a checklist to document the completion of all steps necessary to prepare for safe entry and work in a confined space.
The entry supervisor must sign the entry permit to:
- make sure acceptable conditions have been attained in the permit space; and
- authorize entry.
Further, you must post the permit near the confined space entry for entrants to verify that pre-entry procedures have been completed.
1910.146(e)
Permit system.
- 1910.146(e)(1)
Before entry is authorized, the employer must document the completion of measures required by paragraph (d)(3) by preparing an entry permit.
- Note:
Appendix D to ยง 1910.146 includes examples of permits that meet these requirements.
- 1910.146(e)(2)
Before entry begins, the entry supervisor listed on the permit must sign the permit to allow entry.
- 1910.146(e)(3)
The completed permit must be available at the time of entry to all authorized entrants or their representatives. It can be posted at the entry portal or provided in another effective way so entrants can confirm that pre-entry steps are done.
- 1910.146(e)(4)
The permit cannot last longer than the time needed to complete the task listed on the permit, according to paragraph (f)(2).
- 1910.146(e)(5)
The entry supervisor must end entry and cancel the permit when:
- 1910.146(e)(5)(i)
The entry work listed on the permit is done; or
- 1910.146(e)(5)(ii)
A condition not allowed under the permit occurs in or near the space.
- 1910.146(e)(5)(i)
- 1910.146(e)(6)
The employer must keep each canceled permit for at least 1 year. This helps in reviewing the confined space program under paragraph (d)(14). Any issues found during entry must be written on the permit so needed changes can be made to the program.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-1. Who must sign the entry permit before it is considered valid?
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