Confined Spaces  

General Policy   Confined Space 

Working

Reference should also be made to Common Elements and Requirements, which 

supersedes some parts of this document.

The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 (SI 1997 no. 1713) made under the Health 

and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (HSW Act) came into force on 28 January 1998. 

The Regulations apply in all premises and work situations subject to the HSW Act, 

with the exception of diving operations and below ground in a mine. 

The Confined Spaces Regulations: 

n 

prohibit the entry into a confined space for the purposes of carrying out work 

where it is reasonably practicable to carry out the work by other means 

n 

require work in a confined space to be carried out only in accordance with a safe 

system of work 

n 

impose requirements with regard to the preparation and implementation of 

adequate arrangements for rescue of any person at work in a confined space in the 

event of an emergency. 

Under the Confined Space Regulations 1997, a `Confined Space' has two defining 

features.  Firstly, it is a place which is substantially (though not always entirely) 

enclosed and, secondly, there will be a reasonably foreseeable risk of serious injury 

from hazardous substances or conditions in the space or nearby. 

Risks can arise in confined spaces due to: 

n 

a lack of oxygen 

n 

poisonous gas, fume or vapour 

n 

liquids and solids which can suddenly fill the space or release gases into it, when 

disturbed 

n 

fire and explosion (e.g. from flammable vapours, excess oxygen etc.) 

n 

residues left in tanks vessels etc. or remaining on internal surfaces which can give 

off gas, fume or vapour 

n 

dust in high concentrations 

n 

hot conditions leading to a dangerous increase in body temperature. 

The Approved Code of Practice entitled Safe Working in Confined Spaces published 

by the Health and Safety Executive provides guidance with respect to the 

requirements of the Confined Spaces Regulations. 

April 2005

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