What sequence should be followed before entry into a confined space?

What sequence should be followed before entry into a confined space?

• A. Identify the space, analyze hazards, and classify controls
• B. Enter quickly with PPE
• C. Remove hazards after entry
• D. Ignore hazards

Answer: (A)

Before entering a confined space, a systematic pre-entry assessment and controls plan is required. The best approach is to identify the space, analyze the hazards present, and classify the controls to manage those hazards. This means recognizing risks such as toxic or oxygen-deficient atmospheres, engulfment or entrapment hazards, and energy sources that could trigger unexpected events. It also means selecting appropriate controls: engineering controls like isolating energy sources and providing ventilation; administrative controls such as permit procedures, entry limits, and standby or rescue requirements; and PPE used in combination with these measures, not as the sole safeguard. Establishing this plan ensures hazards are addressed before anyone goes in and helps meet safety regulations. Entering quickly with PPE bypasses the risk assessment, removing hazards after entry is unsafe, and ignoring hazards is not acceptable.

Before entering a confined space, a systematic pre-entry assessment and controls plan is required. The best approach is to identify the space, analyze the hazards present, and classify the controls to manage those hazards. This means recognizing risks such as toxic or oxygen-deficient atmospheres, engulfment or entrapment hazards, and energy sources that could trigger unexpected events. It also means selecting appropriate controls: engineering controls like isolating energy sources and providing ventilation; administrative controls such as permit procedures, entry limits, and standby or rescue requirements; and PPE used in combination with these measures, not as the sole safeguard. Establishing this plan ensures hazards are addressed before anyone goes in and helps meet safety regulations. Entering quickly with PPE bypasses the risk assessment, removing hazards after entry is unsafe, and ignoring hazards is not acceptable.