Entry Permit

Before any workers can access a confined space, a proper entry permit is required. The permit should describe in detail the hazards present and the precautions taken to minimize risk. This information should be available to and reviewed by workers each time they prepare to enter a confined space. According to the OHS Regulation 632/05, an adequate entry permit must display at least the following information:

• The location of the confined space
• A description of the work to be performed there
• A description of the hazards and the corresponding control measures
• The time period to which the entry permit applies
• The name of the attendant
• A record of each worker's entries and exits
• A list of the equipment required for entry and rescue, and verification that the equipment is in good working order
• The results of atmospheric testing
• Adequate provisions for any hot work to be performed and corresponding control measures

A separate entry permit is required for each confined space present on the worksite and for each task being performed within those confined spaces. This eliminates confusion and gives workers a thorough and specific description of the hazards and control measures in place any time they are working in the confined space. Although entry permits do not have to be displayed at the entrance to the confined space, their locations should be made known to all workers involved, and readily available for review and modification. A competent person should verify that all elements of an entry permit are valid and correct before each shift begins.

To learn more about Confined Spaces visit our Canada Confined Space Online Training web page.