Confined spaces SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE This Standard sets out the particular requirements and risk control measures for the safety of persons entering or conducting tasks associated with a confined space.
This Standard is intended to help designers, manufacturers, suppliers, modifiers and users of confined spaces to achieve a safety outcome. It is not exhaustive in its coverage, but it is intended to cover those areas which are of particular concern in regard to confined space safety. NOTE: Further information may be found in legislation,
Standards, Codes of Practice and guidance notes. Requirements and controls for general occupational health and safety risks (e.g. welding safety, prevention of slips and falls) are dealt with in other Standards and regulations and are not specifically addressed in this Standard. This Standard does not cover underground mining, tunnelling, excavation work, trenching, abrasive blasting or spray painting. In such cases, other safe systems of work apply. This Standard is not intended to cover confined spaces that are not at atmospheric pressure. At pressures significantly higher or lower than the normal atmospheric pressure, expert guidance should be sought. Many enclosed or partially enclosed spaces are not confined spaces in accordance with the definition in this Standard. Specific areas such as dangerous goods and hazardous substances storage areas are subject to their own legislation, Standards or Codes of Practice. NOTE: A flow diagram for entry and conduct of tasks in a confined space is given in Appendix A.
1.2 OBJECTIVE The objective of this Standard is to provide designers, manufacturers, suppliers, modifiers and users of plant equipment and services that contain confined spaces with the means to reduce the risks to health and safety of those working in or near confined spaces, by prescribing techniques and procedures covering entry to, and working in or on a confined space. In addition, the Standard sets out to— (a) define the criteria for identifying a confined space; (b) provide guidance in recognizing the hazards associated with confined spaces; (c) outline the requirements for establishing a safe system for entry and the conduct of tasks in or on a confined space; (d) highlight the minimum requirements that are consistent with industry best practice and are considered mandatory for reducing the risks associated with confined spaces and for establishing safe entry to confined spaces;
