Safety checklist — Confined space
Entry and work in confined spaces. Compliant with Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before entry
13 items- ✓
PPE worn: rescue harness, respirator if required, hard hat, gas detector
- ✓
Confined space entry permit completed and signed
- ✓
Atmosphere tested: O₂ ≥ 19.5%, explosivity < 5% LEL, contaminants < OELCritical
ℹ️ RSST Section XXVI values: O₂ ≥ 19.5%, LEL < 5%
- ✓
Mechanical ventilation installed and functional
- ✓
Energy source lockout completed (RSST)
- ✓
Attendant posted at entrance — continuous communication with insideCritical
ℹ️ Attendant must never leave post or enter the space
- ✓
Rescue plan documented — rescue equipment at hand
- ✓
Workers qualified (≥ 18 years, RSST section XXVI trained)
- ✓
Portable gas detector running continuously
- ✓
Ventilation maintained throughout work
- ✓
Regular communication with attendant (every 5 min minimum)
- ✓
Immediate evacuation if gas detector alarmCritical
ℹ️ Immediate evacuation — never attempt solo rescue
- ✓
No ignition source if explosive atmosphere possible
After work / Exit
5 items- ✓
All personnel out — headcount confirmed
- ✓
Tools and materials removed from confined space
- ✓
Access sealed or barricaded to prevent unauthorized entry
- ✓
Entry permit closed and archived
- ✓
Lockout removed per procedure
More checklists — Cross-cutting Situations
More safety checklists
Related guides
Risks and prevention — Confined space
Confined spaces cause multiple deaths annually, often because improvised rescuers become victims themselves. RSST defines a confined space as any partially or totally enclosed space not designed for occupancy that presents health and safety hazards.
A risk assessment is mandatory before any entry: atmosphere (O₂, combustible gas, H₂S, CO), ventilation, access/egress, residual energy, and rescue plan. A calibrated multi-gas detector must run continuously. The surface attendant must never leave their post and must have direct communication with the entrant.
Lockout of all energy sources (mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fluid) is mandatory before entry. The rescue procedure must be established, communicated, and equipment tested before work begins.
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