A confined space is defined as a place
- that is partially or fully enclosed
- that is not both designed and constructed for
continuous human occupancy, and
- where atmospheric hazards may occur because of
its construction, location, or contents, or because of
work that is done in it.
All three criteria have to be met before a space is defined
as a confined space. Hazards in confined spaces can be categorized as either physical hazards or atmospheric
hazards.
Physical hazards often present a greater danger inside an
enclosed space than they do outside. Examples include:
- Noise and vibration
- Temperature extremes
- Cramped work spaces
- Poor access or exit
- Rotating or moving equipment
- Electrical hazards
- Uncontrolled movement of liquids and solids
- Reactive or corrosive residues
- Slick or wet surfaces
- Lighting
Dangerous atmospheres have killed those working in confined spaces as well as those attempting rescue. Atmospheric hazards include:
- flammable, combustible, or explosive atmosphere
- toxic atmosphere
- oxygen-deficient atmosphere
- oxygen-enriched atmosphere
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Hazard Assessment
Before each time that a worker enters a confined space, a
competent worker must perform a written hazard
assessment. The hazard assessment must take into account
- the hazards that may exist in the confined space
- the hazards that may develop while work is performed
inside the confined space
- general safety hazards in the confined space.
Confined Space Program
Before letting a worker enter a confined space, the
employer must develop a written confined space program
meeting the requirements of the Construction Regulation
(Part II.1, Confined Spaces, sections 221.1 to 221.19).
The employer must maintain the program.
The confined space program can apply to one or more
confined spaces. Program elements must include
- a method of recognizing each confined space
- a method for assessing the hazards to which workers
may be exposed
- a method for developing plans for controlling the
hazards
- a method for training workers
- an entry permit system setting out measures and
procedures to be followed when working in a confined
space.
Confined Spaces Regulation
As of September 30, 2006, sections 60-63 of the Construction Regulation dealing with work in confined spaces was revoked and replaced with Part II.1: Confined Spaces (sections 221.1 - 221.19). This section has been harmonized with the Confined Space Regulation 632/05. Major changes included:
- new definitions
- requirement that employers have a written program for confined space entry, including how to recognize a confined space, hazard assessment, hazard controls, worker training, and an entry permit system
- requirement that constructors have a written coordination document when workers from more than one employer work in the same confined space.
View the entire confined spaces regulation in the legislation section of the website.
Download the Ministry of Labour's Confined Spaces Guideline, which provides guidance on
the requirements of the Confined Space Regulation 632/05.
Training Courses
We offer two confined space courses: one is a hazard awareness course and the other is an instructor workshop. The awareness course is a prerequisite for the instructor workshop.
Resources
Documents and Magazine Articles
Safety Talks
E-learning and Videos
| Basics of Carbon Monoxide Video |
This video outlines the health hazards of exposure to carbon monoxide (CO), typical applications where CO may become a problem and ways to prevent the hazard. A quiz is also included to test your knowledge on carbon monoxide.
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