Confined Space Entry

Confined Space Entry Policy for Caliber Construction Alaska

Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of all employees involved in confined space entry activities at Caliber Construction Alaska. This policy outlines the procedures, responsibilities, and requirements for entering confined spaces to mitigate hazards and prevent accidents.

Scope: This policy applies to all employees and contractors of Caliber Construction Alaska who are involved in or oversee confined space entry operations.

Definitions:

  • Confined Space: A space that is large enough for an employee to enter, has limited means of entry or exit, and is not designed for continuous occupancy.
  • Permit-Required Confined Space: A confined space that may contain hazards requiring a permit for entry.
  • Authorized Entrant: An employee who is trained and authorized to enter a permit-required confined space.
  • Entry Supervisor: The individual responsible for overseeing confined space entry operations and ensuring compliance with safety procedures.
  • Attendant: A trained employee stationed outside the confined space to monitor entrants and provide assistance in case of emergencies.

Policy:

Identification and Evaluation of Confined Spaces:

  • Caliber Construction Alaska shall identify and evaluate all confined spaces within its facilities to determine if they meet the criteria for permit-required confined spaces.
  • A Confined Space Evaluation Form shall be used to document the assessment and classification of confined spaces.

Permit-Required Confined Space Entry Procedures:

  • Prior to entering a permit-required confined space, the Entry Supervisor shall:
    • Verify that acceptable entry conditions exist.
    • Ensure all necessary safety equipment is in place and functional.
    • Complete and sign the Confined Space Entry Permit, specifying entry conditions, precautions, and rescue procedures.
  • Entrants and attendants shall be briefed on the entry conditions, hazards, and emergency procedures before entry begins.

Atmospheric Testing and Monitoring:

  • Atmospheric testing shall be conducted to determine the presence of hazardous gases or oxygen deficiency/enrichment before and during entry.
  • Entrants shall use gas detectors to continuously monitor atmospheric conditions inside the confined space.
  • Entry shall be prohibited if atmospheric conditions are unsafe, and corrective measures must be taken before entry resumes.

Safety Equipment and Precautions:

  • Entrants shall wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection, fall protection, and confined space retrieval systems.
  • Ventilation shall be provided to eliminate or control atmospheric hazards within the confined space.
  • Lockout/tagout procedures shall be implemented to control energy sources and prevent accidental activation of equipment.

Emergency Procedures and Rescue Planning:

  • Rescue personnel shall be trained and available on-site to perform confined space rescues if needed.
  • Rescue equipment, including retrieval systems and communication devices, shall be readily accessible and tested regularly.
  • Emergency contact information and procedures for summoning rescue services shall be posted at the confined space entry point.

Training and Education:

  • All employees involved in confined space entry operations shall receive training on the hazards, procedures, and equipment related to confined space entry.
  • Refresher training shall be provided periodically to reinforce safety practices and update employees on regulatory changes.

Policy Review: This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and to incorporate any necessary updates or improvements in confined space entry procedures.

Enforcement: Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, depending on the severity of the violation and its potential impact on safety.

Conclusion: Caliber Construction Alaska is committed to ensuring the safety of its employees during confined space entry operations. By adhering to this policy and following established procedures, we aim to prevent accidents and protect the well-being of our workforce.