Free Confined Space Entry Checklist
Use our free online confined space entry checklist to document permit-required confined space entries. Verify atmospheric testing, LOTO, rescue equipment, and personnel requirements before entry.
Confined space entry permit completed and posted*
Space identified and classified (permit-required or non-permit)*
Entry supervisor designated and on-site*
Purpose of entry documented*
Duration of entry established*
Previous permits for this space reviewed
Atmospheric testing equipment calibrated and functioning*
Oxygen level tested (19.5% - 23.5% acceptable)*
LEL/flammable gas tested (below 10% LEL)*
H2S level tested (below 10 ppm)*
CO level tested (below 25 ppm)*
Other toxic substances tested (if applicable)
Continuous atmospheric monitoring established*
Test results documented on permit*
Natural or mechanical ventilation in place*
All energy sources locked out/tagged out (LOTO)*
Pipelines blanked, blinded, or disconnected*
Electrical sources de-energized and locked out*
Mechanical hazards isolated or blocked*
Space purged/cleaned of hazardous residue*
Retrieval system available (tripod, winch, lifeline)*
Full-body harness with attachment point available*
Rescue equipment immediately accessible*
Lighting adequate for work being performed*
SCBA or SAR available if atmosphere IDLH
Ladders or other entry/exit equipment in place*
Authorized entrants trained in confined space hazards*
Attendant(s) designated and stationed at entry*
Attendant trained in duties and emergency procedures*
Rescue team identified and available*
All personnel briefed on specific hazards of this space*
Entrants know how to exit if ordered by attendant*
Communication system established (voice, radio, signal)*
Emergency contact numbers posted at entry*
Emergency services notified of entry (if required)
Evacuation signal established and understood*
First aid kit accessible at entry point*
Entry log maintained (sign in/sign out)*
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What is a Permit-Required Confined Space?
A permit-required confined space is a workspace that meets the definition of a confined space and has additional hazards that require a written permit before entry. Under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146, a confined space is large enough for an employee to enter, has limited means of entry or exit, and is not designed for continuous occupancy.
Common examples in oil and gas operations include storage tanks, vessels, mud pits, separators, pipelines, and pits. These spaces present serious hazards including oxygen-deficient or oxygen-enriched atmospheres, flammable gases, toxic substances like H2S, and engulfment hazards from stored materials.
Atmospheric Hazards
Systematic verification of O2, LEL, H2S, and CO levels before and during entry.
OSHA Compliance
Meet 29 CFR 1910.146 requirements for permit-required confined space programs.
Personnel Verification
Confirm trained entrants, attendants, and entry supervisor are in place.
Permit Documentation
Create defensible records of pre-entry checks and authorizations.
Communication Checks
Verify communication systems and emergency procedures are established.
Rescue Readiness
Confirm rescue equipment and personnel are available before entry.
OSHA Confined Space Entry Requirements
Entry Permit System (29 CFR 1910.146(e))
Before entry, a written permit must document the space, hazards, acceptable entry conditions, test results, authorized entrants, communication procedures, and rescue arrangements.
Atmospheric Testing (29 CFR 1910.146(c)(5))
Test the atmosphere before entry in this order: oxygen, combustible gases, then toxic gases. Acceptable ranges: O2 19.5-23.5%, flammables below 10% LEL, H2S below 10 ppm.
Attendant Requirements (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(6))
At least one trained attendant must remain outside the space, maintain communication with entrants, monitor for hazards, and be prepared to summon rescue services.
Rescue & Emergency Services (29 CFR 1910.146(d)(9))
Employers must ensure rescue services are available, either through an internal team or external services. Non-entry rescue methods like retrieval systems must be used when feasible.
Training Requirements (29 CFR 1910.146(g))
All entrants, attendants, and entry supervisors must receive training on their duties, hazard recognition, and emergency procedures before participating in confined space entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need to Manage Confined Space Permits Across Your Organization?
BasinCheck digitizes your safety permits with mobile-friendly forms, photo capture, automatic issue tracking, and complete audit trails.