Hazard Assessment & Control Program

To manage the risks associated with working in confined spaces, supervisors must develop and implement a Confined Space Hazard Assessment and Control Program. Such a program, specific for the work being conducted, should be developed for each confined space.

A Confined Space Hazard Assessment and Control Program should include the following:

• A description of the roles and responsibilities of each person or party, including the following:
  • Employer
  • Supervisor
  • Workers
  • Attendants
  • Emergency response team
• Instructions on how to identify confined spaces
• The identification and assessment of all potential hazards that may exist at the beginning of the work, as well as those that may develop because of the work activities
• A plan to eliminate or control all identified hazards
• Written work procedures
• A training program for all workers who will enter the confined spaces
• An established Entry Permit System for each entry into a confined space
• Development of an emergency plan, complete with training and equipment, in case an unforeseen situation occurs
• An emergency response system
• Procedures for reporting and investigating incidents related to work in confined spaces
• Record and documentation control
• A program review whenever there is a change in circumstances, or at least annually, to identify program weaknesses and make any necessary changes to the program
• Emergency response precautions

To learn more about Confined Space Competent Person/Supervisor visit our Confined Space Competent Person/Supervisor Online Training web page.