Every authorized entrant has the right — and the responsibility — to understand exactly what hazards they may face before entering a confined space.
Why It Matters:
Too often, workers enter permit-required confined spaces without fully understanding the atmospheric, mechanical, or engulfment hazards inside. This lack of awareness leads to poor decision-making and fatal outcomes.
Key Points:
- Entrants must be briefed on:
- The hazards present (e.g., low oxygen, toxic gases, moving equipment)
- How those hazards are controlled (e.g., ventilation, lockout/tagout, barriers)
- What PPE is required and how to use it
- They must know how to communicate with the attendant and when to exit
- Every entrant must review and sign the confined space permit before entry
- Questions should be encouraged — not brushed off
✅ An informed entrant is a safer entrant.
Ask the Crew:
- Are we clearly explaining hazards to all entrants?
- Do all entrants know how to respond if conditions change?