Enter and Work in Confined Spaces

Training Details

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to enter and work in confined spaces in the resources and infrastructure industries. It applies to those working in operational roles who generally work under supervision to undertake a prescribed range of functions involving known routines and procedures, and who take responsibility for the quality of their work outcomes.

Assessment is competency-based and combines theory with practical demonstration.

The unit covers the core stages of working in a confined space:

• planning and preparing for the work
• working in the confined space
• exiting the confined space
• cleaning up

Find more information on RIIWHS202E – Enter and work in confined spaces on training.gov.au.

Learning Outcomes

• Plan and prepare: interpreting work requirements, identifying and controlling hazards, obtaining an entry permit, and selecting PPE and rescue equipment
• Work in the confined space: gaining access, testing and monitoring the atmosphere, applying tagging and lock-out procedures, and maintaining communication with the stand-by person
• Exit the confined space: recovering tools and equipment, inspecting the space, removing tagging and lock-out, and completing the entry permit
• Clean up: clearing the work area, storing barriers and signs, inspecting equipment and processing maintenance records

On successful completion you receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment for RIIWHS202E Enter and Work in Confined Spaces.

Performance Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate the ability to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including evidence of the ability to:

• enter and work in confined spaces on at least two occasions, including: obtaining the required entry permit and instructions; interpreting and applying workplace procedures; applying tagging and lock-out procedures; selecting, wearing and caring for personal protective equipment; using atmospheric monitoring devices before and during confined space activity; entering, working in and exiting the confined space; applying safe materials handling methods; and removing tagging and lock-out
• locating and applying relevant legislation, documentation, policies and procedures and confirming that the work activity is compliant
• implementing the requirements, procedures and techniques for entering and working in confined spaces
• working effectively with others to enter and work in confined spaces in a way that meets all required outcomes
• communicating clearly and concisely with others to receive and clarify work instructions and coordination requirements before and during work activities

Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must be able to demonstrate knowledge to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including knowledge of:

• key legislation relevant to entering and working in confined spaces
• key policies, procedures and documentation required to enter and work in confined spaces, including entry and exit procedures, site and equipment safety requirements, site isolation and control responsibilities, safety data sheets, and incident and emergency response documentation
• principles and techniques for identifying and responding to areas that constitute confined spaces, types of air contaminants and toxic gases, limitations of breathing apparatus, relevant hazards and emergencies, and equipment types, characteristics and limitations
• principles and techniques for using confined space and industry terminology
• techniques for coordinating and communicating job activities with others