Confined Spaces 

Section 3   Operational Appointments 

n 

have completed successfully a MOD approved Authorising Engineer 

training course within the last four years 

n 

have knowledge of the different types of confined spaces on the 

MOD Estate, and of the types of confined spaces on the site(s) for 

which they are appointed 

n 

become familiar with complex confined spaces on the site(s) for 

which they are appointed 

n 

demonstrate, through a formal assessment: 

n 

competency 

n 

an understanding of the tasks involved 

n 

knowledge of these Safety Rules and Procedures 

n 

suitability for the appointment 

n 

hold a current certificate in Emergency First Aid for appointed 

persons. 

Notes: 

The requirement to be a Chartered Engineer/Corporate 

Member may be waived in exceptional circumstances for 

nominees with sufficient technical knowledge, plus 

relevant experience in the type(s) of confined spaces and 

safe systems of work, for which they will become 

responsible. 

Civil Engineering and Occupational Safety & Health are 

the main disciplines which relates to the Authorising 

Engineer (Confined Space) specialism. Chartered 

Engineers / Corporate Members of other disciplines who 

also have had specific training and experience in confined 

space working may be suitable for an Authorising Engineer 

(Confined Spaces) appointment

. 

3.4   

CONDITIONS OF APPOINTMENT OF AUTHORISING ENGINEERS

3.4.1  

The period of an Authorising Engineers appointment may be of any 

duration up to the expiry date on the current Certificate of Competency. 

3.4.2  

It is not permitted for a person to hold concurrently the appointments of 

both Authorising Engineer and Authorised Person for the same site or 

establishment. If an Authorised Person is selected as an Authorising 

Engineer for the same site or establishment, the role of Authorised Person 

is to be relinquished on appointment as Authorising Engineer. 

3.4.3  

Where an Authorising Engineer has no other duties, the Authorising 

Engineer is to be responsible for not more than fifty in number Authorised 

Person appointments, regardless of the Authorised Persons specialisms. 

3.4.4  

Where an Authorising Engineer has other duties, the number of 

Authorised Person appointments under the control of the Authorising 

Engineer is to be reduced in proportion to the time available for 

Authorising Engineer duties. 

14

April 2005