POL-U5950.02 Entering Confined Space

EHS Director is responsible for administering the confined space program and confined space rescue services per WAC 296-809.

Whenever employees or students are exposed to a hazard arising from entry into a confined space, appropriate training, protective and rescue equipment, and procedures are used to safeguard the exposed workers or students from serious injury or death.

For each project or job, individuals who are competent in the evaluation of hazards, precautions, first aid, and artificial respiration shall specifically be assigned. All personnel shall be trained in the use of personal protective equipment required for the job assignment.

It is the responsibility of the department head or center director to ensure that this confined space program is employed for areas under their purview. The department head shall also be responsible for procedures, training, and planning for entry into confined spaces which present a problem due to toxicity, flammability, oxygen deficiency or excess mechanical, electrical, corrosive, or temperature hazard.

Supervisors shall be responsible to the department head for implementing the confined space program for employees and work under their purview. The supervisor or designate shall assure that the confined space work permit (attached) is completed prior to entry into a confined space, that appropriate air quality monitoring has been arranged in advance, and that appropriate equipment and trained personnel are available to safely enter the confined space.

All employees, contractors and students shall comply with the confined space procedures and shall be protected from hazards resulting from entry into confined spaces.

The Environmental Health and Safety staff shall be responsible for providing and updating University-wide procedures and assisting departments with implementation of the program.