20 January 2015 - 001
Confined/Restricted Spaces
Working in confined or restricted spaces can be one of the most dangerous workplace activities. It has been
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calculated that working in a confined space is 150 times more dangerous than doing the same job outside .
Always follow the rules to live by:
Consider if the work can be done outside of the confined or restricted space. If it can’t be
completed outside, then:
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Plan your entry and exit – decide who is best to enter the space; decide who will be the
Stand-by person and will not enter the space
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Always work with a mate
Consider how you will get out if something goes wrong
Consider the equipment required for the work. It must be available, ready for use and
right for the job
Background
Recent audits show that many sites are completing under-floor work and there appears to be confusion about the
process and whether this work is considered a confined or a restricted space.
What is a Restricted Space?
A restricted space is defined as an area:
• that has a very narrow, small or awkward entry/exit point; and/or
• where the space is not large enough to comfortably house a human occupant;
For the purposes of this programme, a restricted space includes (but is not limited to) ceiling space and under floor
spaces.
What is a Confined Space?
A confined space is defined as an enclosed or partially enclosed space that is at
atmospheric pressure during occupancy and is not intended or designed primarily as a
place of work, and is liable at any time to:
• Have an atmosphere which contains potentially harmful levels of contaminant;
and/or
• Have an oxygen deficiency or excess; and/or
• Contain a risk of engulfment; and
• Could have restricted means of entry and/or exit.
Hazards
The following hazards may be found in Confined or Restricted Spaces and those that are present on site must be
documented in the Site Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) Hazard Register and Task Analysis:
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Oxygen deficient or oxygen enriched atmospheres
Contaminated soil
Toxic gas, fume or vapour
Liquids or solids that quickly fill the space
Risk of explosion of fire
Entrapment
Hazardous dust
Extremes in temperatures
Live electrical wiring
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Mould and fungi
Sewage
Broken glass, hypodermic needles, building
rubble, sharp objects
Risk of falling through the ceiling
Risk of objects falling from overhead
Vermin
Urine or faeces from vermin or domestic
animals
Visit our website www.safe6.co.nz for more information on Safe6 risks
20 January 2015 - 001
Safe Work Practices – Restricted Spaces
All persons entering or working in a Restricted Space must have a copy of WorkSafe NZ endorsed ‘Safe Working in
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a Confined Space ’ and complete the following:
 Complete a Task Analysis, identifying all hazards
 Ensure the persons entering a Restricted Space and the standby person are competent
 Ensure emergency procedures are in place and communicated to everyone on site
 Have equipment on site to undertake an emergency evacuation, this includes having adequate lighting
 Ensure equipment is fit for purpose and readily available
 Ensure adequate ventilation is present
 Ensure an effective means of communication is identified and immediately available for use
 Ensure the size of the entry/ exit point is adequate, free from obstructions and will allow the passage of
persons wearing PPE and RPE
 Ensure appropriate PPE and RPE is worn and fitted correctly
 Ensure access is restricted and includes safety signage that is clear and conspicuous
 Communicate the intention to enter the space to everyone on site, including expected time frames and
emergency procedures
Safe Work Practices – Confined Spaces
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If the space is a Confined Space, the combined Australian New Zealand standard must be complied with. The
person engaged to enter the Confined Space must have received formal specialist training and be competent to
undertake the work.
Atmospheric testing may be required. This will test for the oxygen content, and airborne concentrations of
combustible contaminants and airborne concentrations of potentially harmful gases. This must be undertaken in
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accordance with the provisions of AS/NZS 2865 .
In addition, a range of unit standard training is required. Please see the EQR Guideline on Confined / Restricted
Spaces for full information.
Full PPE will also be required and includes: protective safety footwear and gloves, respiratory protection, safety
eyewear, overalls and hi-viz clothing. A hard hat may also be required.
References
1 - Worksafe NZ. Safe Working in a Confined Space
2 - ASNZS 2865-1995 Safe working in a confined space
Fletcher EQR. Confined and Restricted Spaces Guideline, Revision C, date of issue 17-oct-14
I have read / heard and understand the information in this Tool Box Talk. If I have any questions, I will ask my
Manager.
Date
Signature
Name
Visit our website www.safe6.co.nz for more information on Safe6 risks