OH Consultant
⚠️

Confined Space SWMS Template

Safe Work Method Statement for entry and work in confined spaces — tanks, pits, chambers, silos

HRCW: Work in or near a confined space
✓ WHS Reg compliant✓ Pre-filled hazards & controls✓ Preview free, export PDF

What This SWMS Covers

This SWMS covers entry and work in confined spaces as defined by WHS Regulations, including tanks, silos, pits, pipes, vats, chambers, and any enclosed or partially enclosed space not designed for continuous occupancy with a restricted means of entry/exit and a risk of hazardous atmosphere.

Who Needs This SWMS

Any worker required to enter a confined space, standby persons, rescue teams, principal contractors managing confined space work on construction sites

Key Hazards & Control Measures

HazardRisk LevelControl MeasuresHierarchy
Hazardous atmosphere (O₂ deficiency, toxic gas, flammable)FatalAtmospheric monitoring before and during entry (O₂, LEL, CO, H₂S), forced ventilation, supplied-air RPE if atmosphere cannot be made safeEngineering / PPE
Engulfment (in silos, hoppers)FatalLockout/isolation of all inlets, no entry into free-flowing material, harness with retrieval lineEngineering / Administrative
EntrapmentFatalRisk assessment of space geometry, rescue plan, emergency retrieval system (tripod/winch), communication systemAdministrative / Engineering
Oxygen enrichment / fire riskFatalNo compressed gas cylinders inside space, hot work permit + atmospheric monitoring, fire extinguisher at entry pointAdministrative
Electric shock (in wet/conductive spaces)FatalSELV/PELV supply only, RCD protection, dry tools and equipment, no 240V tools in wet confined spacesEngineering
Falls within the spaceSeriousSecure access (ladder/steps), adequate lighting, harness if vertical entry, non-slip surfacesEngineering / PPE
Communication failureCriticalContinuous communication between entrant and standby, intrinsically safe radio or hard-wired system, visual contact where possibleAdministrative
Rescue failureFatalRescue plan before entry, trained rescue team/standby person, retrieval equipment tested, emergency services notified of entryAdministrative

PPE Requirements

●Supplied-air RPE or SCBA (if atmosphere not verified safe)
●Full-body harness with retrieval line
●Hard hat (low-profile)
●Safety boots (AS/NZS 2210)
●Intrinsically safe torch/headlamp
●Gas detector (4-gas minimum)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is a confined space under WHS?
A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not designed or intended for continuous human occupancy, has restricted means of entry and exit, and may have a hazardous atmosphere, a risk of engulfment, or other risks.
Q:Who can enter a confined space?
Only workers who have been trained in confined space entry, are covered by a valid entry permit, and have a standby person and rescue plan in place. A competent person must assess the space and issue the permit.
Q:Is atmospheric monitoring mandatory?
Yes. Atmospheric monitoring must be conducted before entry and continuously during the work. The atmosphere must be tested for oxygen levels, flammable gases (LEL), and any toxic gases specific to the space.

Build Your Confined Space SWMS Now

Pre-filled hazards and controls for confined space work. Preview free, export when ready.