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Confined Spaces

A confined space is defined as a place

  • that is partially or fully enclosed
  • that is not both designed and constructed for continuous human occupancy, and
  • where atmospheric hazards may occur because of its construction, location, or contents, or because of work that is done in it.

All three criteria have to be met before a space is defined as a confined space.

confined space

Hazards in confined spaces can be categorized as either physical hazards or atmospheric hazards.

Physical hazards often present a greater danger inside an enclosed space than they do outside. Examples include:

  • Noise and vibration
  • Temperature extremes
  • Cramped work spaces
  • Poor access or exit
  • Rotating or moving equipment
  • Electrical hazards
  • Uncontrolled movement of liquids and solids
  • Reactive or corrosive residues
  • Slick or wet surfaces
  • Lighting

Dangerous atmospheres have killed those working in confined spaces as well as those attempting rescue. Atmospheric hazards include:

  • flammable, combustible, or explosive atmosphere
  • toxic atmosphere
  • oxygen-deficient atmosphere
  • oxygen-enriched atmosphere

(For more info, download the chapter on Confined Spaces from IHSA's Construction Health and Safety Manual.)


Hazard Assessment

Before each time that a worker enters a confined space, a competent worker must perform a written hazard assessment. The hazard assessment must take into account

  • the hazards that may exist in the confined space
  • the hazards that may develop while work is performed inside the confined space
  • general safety hazards in the confined space.

Confined Space Program

Before letting a worker enter a confined space, the employer must develop a written confined space program meeting the requirements of the Construction Regulation (Part II.1, Confined Spaces, sections 221.1 to 221.19). The employer must maintain the program.

The confined space program can apply to one or more confined spaces. Program elements must include

  • a method of recognizing each confined space
  • a method for assessing the hazards to which workers may be exposed
  • a method for developing plans for controlling the hazards
  • a method for training workers
  • an entry permit system setting out measures and procedures to be followed when working in a confined space.

Confined Spaces Regulation

As of September 30, 2006, sections 60-63 of the Construction Regulation dealing with work in confined spaces was revoked and replaced with Part II.1: Confined Spaces (sections 221.1 - 221.19). This section has been harmonized with the Confined Space Regulation 632/05. Major changes included:

  • new definitions
  • requirement that employers have a written program for confined space entry, including how to recognize a confined space, hazard assessment, hazard controls, worker training, and an entry permit system
  • requirement that constructors have a written coordination document when workers from more than one employer work in the same confined space.

View the entire confined spaces regulation in the legislation section of the website.

Download the Ministry of Labour's Confined Spaces Guideline, which provides guidance on the requirements of the Confined Space Regulation 632/05.


Training Courses


Products

SMP002 – Confined Space Entry Safety Meeting Pkg

This safety meeting package includes information on the definition of a confined space, the laws that govern the space and safe entry and egress.

more details

M029 – Construction Health and Safety Manual

Contains everything you need to recognize and protect yourself against construction health and safety hazards. 350 pages. Revised, Nov 2010.

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M033 – Construction Multi-Trades Health and Safety Manual

A comprehensive safety manual, similar to Construction Health and Safety Manual (M029), developed for six trades: boilermakers, millwrights, refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanics, pipe trades, sprinkler and fire protection trades, and insulators. Jan 2009 ed.

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SPG3 – Entry and Work in Confined Spaces SPG

This guide designates the practices that should be followed when entry and work in a confined space is required.

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IHSA002 – IHSA Health and Safety Catalogue

The catalogue features a comprehensive list of the products, training, auditing, and consulting services we offer, along with descriptions, images, and prices. Also includes a training registration form and product order form. 2010 edition.

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V005 – Safety Talks Manual

The Safety Talks manual covers a wide variety of safety topics for the construction industry. By presenting the information in a concise and easily digestible format, you can prevent an injury or save a life in just 5 minutes. Revised May, 2008.

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W001 – Training Requirements Chart

Constructors and employers are required to provide worker training. This chart compiles all the training requirements for each type of construction work. Revised, April 2012. 8 pages. Colour.

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Safety Talks


Documents and Magazine Articles


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