Confined Spaces 

Section 4   Safety and Operational Procedures 

4.4.4  

Where a general instruction is given on the classification of a particular set 

of confined spaces and a generic risk assessment covers them all, low and 

moderate risk confined spaces need not be listed separately in the 

Confined Space Register.  

4.5   

LOW RISK CONFINED SPACES

4.5.1  

These are confined spaces where testing and experience have shown that 

they are sufficiently safe under normal operating conditions and that there 

is unlikely to be a reasonably foreseeable specified risk as identified by a 

risk assessment. 

4.5.2  

A confined space can generally be classified as Low Risk where: 

n 

the assessed risks are low and can be controlled easily; and 

n 

the system of work is very simple; and 

n 

the Authorised Person knows that other work activities being carried 

out cannot affect safe working in the confined space 

n 

the nature of the work and the assessed risk should be such that the 

Authorised Person deems a Permit to Work is not required. 

4.5.3  

Examples of Low Risk confined spaces are set out in Annex E. 

4.5.4  

A Safety Method Statement is required for all work carried out in low risk 

situations, which has been approved by the Authorised Person. 

4.5.5  

If the assessed risks are subsequently eliminated entirely, and there is no 

foreseeable chance of them recurring, the Authorised Person may allow 

unrestricted entry provided the above conditions apply.  Where 

unrestricted entry is not permitted, access to the space must be adequately 

controlled. 

4.5.6  

Where unrestricted access to a Low Risk confined space is permitted the 

Authorised Person is to co ordinate with the Property Manager as 

necessary to prevent danger and manage the residual risks. 

4.5.7  

Unauthorised access to Low Risk confined spaces shall be controlled by 

either: 

n 

permanent manning 

n 

locks on access points 

n 

withdrawing access ladders 

n 

covers requiring proprietary keys 

4.5.8  

Keys to locks and covers are to be held by the duty Authorised Person or a 

Person nominated by the Authorised Person.  

4.5.9  

Notices shall be fixed at all entry points unless an adequate general 

instruction has been issued and suitable covers / locks are in place.  

Notices should be similar to the model safety signs illustrated in Annex F. 

26

April 2005