Confined Space Rescue: Non-Entry Retrieval, Rescue Services and Practice

When something goes wrong inside a permit space, minutes matter. Low oxygen can cause brain damage within minutes, and toxic gases can kill faster. But untrained rescuers who rush in are often overcome by the same hazard. OSHA's answer is to plan rescue before entry and to prefer methods that keep rescuers outside.

Three levels of rescue

Non-entry rescue and retrieval systems

1910.146(k)(3) requires retrieval systems or methods to be used whenever an authorized entrant enters a permit space, unless the retrieval equipment would increase the overall risk of entry or would not contribute to the rescue (for example, a winding space where a line would snag).

• Each entrant uses a chest or full-body harness with the retrieval line attached at the center of the back near shoulder level, above the head, or at another point that gives a profile small enough to remove the entrant. Wristlets may be used instead of a harness only if the employer can show a harness is infeasible or creates a greater hazard.
• The other end of the line is attached to a mechanical device or fixed point outside the space so rescue can begin as soon as the rescuer knows it's needed.
• A mechanical device (such as a winch on a tripod or davit) must be available to retrieve personnel from vertical-type permit spaces more than 5 feet deep.

See the equipment in our confined space equipment guide.

Choosing a rescue service

Many employers rely on an outside rescue service, such as a fire department technical rescue team or a contracted standby team. Under 1910.146(k)(1), the employer must:

• Evaluate the rescuer's ability to respond in a timely manner, considering the hazards identified. An IDLH atmosphere demands a standby team on site; a lower-hazard space may allow a short response time.
• Evaluate the rescue service's proficiency with rescue-related tasks and equipment.
• Select a team that has adequate response time and is equipped and proficient for the spaces involved.
• Inform the rescue team of the hazards they may confront.
• Give the team access to all permit spaces from which rescue may be needed so they can develop rescue plans and practice.

Appendix F to 1910.146 offers non-mandatory evaluation criteria. In practice: call the team, confirm they'll be available during your entry, ask about response time, equipment and confined space rescue training, and invite them to see the space.

When your own employees are the rescue team

If employees perform rescue, 1910.146(k)(2) requires the employer to:

• Provide and train them in the PPE and rescue equipment needed.
• Train them in their assigned rescue duties and as authorized entrants.
• Have them practice permit space rescues at least once every 12 months, using simulated rescues in which they remove dummies, mannequins or actual persons from the actual spaces or from representative spaces (similar opening size, configuration and accessibility).
• Train each member in basic first aid and CPR, and make sure at least one member holding current certification in first aid and CPR is available.

Emergency information for medical care

If an injured entrant was exposed to a substance that has a safety data sheet (SDS) or similar written information, that information must be made available to the medical facility treating the entrant (1910.146(k)(4)).

Key takeaways

• Self-rescue first, non-entry rescue second, entry rescue by trained teams only.
• Use retrieval systems on every entry unless they increase risk or wouldn't help.
• Vertical spaces deeper than 5 feet need a mechanical retrieval device available.
• Evaluate and confirm rescue services before entry: timeliness, proficiency, hazards and access.
• In-house rescuers practice at least every 12 months, and a certified first aid/CPR member must be available.

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.