Confined Space Pre-Entry Checklist: Before Anyone Breaks the Plane

Use this checklist at the space, alongside the entry permit. Nothing you check here is saved.

People and training

• Entry supervisor, attendant and entrants named on the permit
• Everyone trained for their role, and the training is certified
• Attendant has no other duties that could distract from monitoring
• Entrants know the hazards, signs and symptoms, and the evacuation signals
• Contractors and other employers informed and entries coordinated

Isolation and preparation

• Space drained, depressurized and cleaned as planned
• Lines blanked, double blocked and bled, or disconnected
• All energy sources locked and tagged; zero energy verified
• Engulfment sources (feeds, gates, upstream flows) controlled
• Unsafe conditions eliminated before removing the cover
• Opening guarded with a manhole guard or barrier

Ventilation

• Blower intake upwind, away from engine exhaust
• Supply duct reaches the work area or bottom of the space
• Purge time completed
• Continuous ventilation running and will stay on during entry

Atmospheric testing

• Monitor bump tested today; calibration current
• Monitor zeroed in fresh air
• Tested oxygen, then flammables, then toxics
• Tested top, middle and bottom from outside before entry
• Results meet acceptable entry conditions and are recorded on the permit
• Entrants offered the chance to observe the testing
• Personal monitors on entrants for continuous monitoring

Equipment and communications

• PPE on and appropriate to the hazards (respirator fit-tested if used)
• Lighting suitable for the atmosphere, enough to exit quickly
• Ladder or entry equipment secured
• Communication method tested between entrants and attendant
• Harnesses inspected and retrieval lines attached
• Tripod or davit and winch set up for vertical spaces deeper than 5 feet

Rescue

• Rescue service contacted and confirmed available for this entry
• Means to summon rescue tested (phone or radio works at the space)
• Non-entry rescue plan briefed to the attendant
• SDS for any chemicals available to send with an injured entrant

Authorization

• Entry supervisor verified tests, procedures and equipment by checking
• Permit signed and posted at the entry portal

Last reviewed: October 25, 2026 · Free general education based on OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146 and 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA. It does not replace the site-specific training, written program and hands-on evaluation your employer must provide, and it does not issue a certificate. Nothing you enter on this page is saved or sent.