Confined Space Program

Every year employees are killed as a result of hazardous conditions in confined spaces. Approximately 60% of these fatalities are would-be rescuers who enter these spaces in an attempt to retrieve the fallen individual(s), only to be overcome and become victims themselves. As part of routine maintenance activities many Purdue University employees and contractors are required to enter potentially hazardous enclosed spaces. Confined spaces may have atmospheric conditions and/or physical hazards present and include: manholes, wet-wells, vaults, tanks, boilers, silos, bins, pits, sumps, and sanitary and storm sewers. Toxic and/or flammable gases and vapors may accumulate in these locations as a result of insufficient ventilation and deficient oxygen levels may be present as the result of corrosion and/or organic debris digestion. In addition, limited access to these locations complicates the retrieval of anyone incapacitated. In accordance with the OSHA standard the regulations listed below provide minimum requirements for safe entry into these locations:

• Electrical Transmission and Distribution – 29 CFR 1910.269
• Permit-required Confined Spaces – 29 CFR 1910.146
• Telecommunications – 29 CFR 1910.268

This manual contains the procedures and practices for safe entry into locations, used at Purdue University, falling under the above regulations.

1.1 Scope

The provisions of this program pertain to locations required to be entered by an employee(s) that either meet the definition or the description as outlined in the following regulations: Permit-required Confined Spaces – 29 CFR 1910.146 Non-permit required Confined Spaces

• Electrical Transmission and Distribution – 29 CFR 1910.269 e(1-14) and t(1-8)
• Telecommunications – 29 CFR 1910.268 o(1-5)

1.2 Applicability

This program shall apply to all personnel at Purdue University’s West Lafayette Campus, Regional Campuses, University Farms and Agricultural Centers, and related facilities and operations.

1.3 Policy

It is the policy of Purdue University to take every reasonable precaution to provide a work environment free from recognized hazards for its employees in accordance with the General Duty Clause of the OSHA Act (Public Law 91-596 Section 5 (a)(1) and in accordance with any more applicable specific OSHA standards. Purdue University’s policy document is entitled Environmental Health and Safety Compliance.

1.4 General Requirements

The University, in accordance with State and Federal regulations, has implemented this program to ensure safe entry into confined spaces. Before entry all potential hazards must be identified and controlled. A formalized training program has been designed to enable employees to recognize potential hazards and take the appropriate actions to control those hazards. For most work operations in electrical and telecommunication manholes safeguards and controls can be completed without entry into the location and in such cases the permit system is not required. However, if entrance into the enclosed space is required to implement hazard controls, then the permit-required confined space program must be used.

1.5 Responsibilities

Each utility group is responsible for reviewing the locations within their respective areas to identify either known or suspect confined space locations. This information shall be provided to the Environmental Health and Safety for final status determination.

• Supervisors must identify locations and provide a list of employees requiring training.
  • NOTE : Supervisors are required to attend training in accordance with the regulations pertaining to the locations their employees are required to enter.
• Employees must complete the training as required by their supervisors and to follow the procedures as outlined in the training when entering a confined space. A written exam will be given to provide documentation of training proficiency. They should also assist in identifying potential confined space locations and notify their supervisor if they witness an unsafe entry.
• Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). The EHS director, or their designees, shall be responsible for establishing and maintaining the Confined Space Entry Program. EHS is responsible for maintaining current location listings of both permit-required and non-permit required confined spaces; generating and updating the written confined space program, maintaining files on completed permits; identifying and approving equipment needed for safe entry; conducting and maintaining calibration and calibration records on air monitoring meters, (see form CS-5); and to provide training and maintain training records.
• Fire Department will assume the responsibility of the on-site rescue team and the on-site first- aid responder.

1.6 Contractor Requirements

Any work at the University in confined spaces must be conducted in accordance with the regulations specific to that location. Contractors must have a written confined space program that complies with the regulation pertinent to the areas to be entered. All contractors must provide copies of their written program(s) and employee training documentation to the contracting shop/department. Contractors are also responsible to supply all needed equipment to perform safe entry. For permit required confined entries the contractor shall complete form CS-4 Contractor Debriefing with a University representative and provide a copy to the University. In addition, contractors are required to coordinate emergency rescue notification with Purdue Fire Department using Form CS-2. When a contractor is required to enter or work in proximity to a permit required confined space, the contracting department will furnish a written copy of the hazards identified in that space to the contractor.

1.7 Definitions

Acceptable Entry Conditions: Means the conditions that must exist in a space to allow entry and to ensure that the employees involved with a confined space entry can safely enter into and work within the space.

Attendant: An individual stationed outside one or more spaces who monitors the authorized entrants and who performs all attendant’s duties assigned in the employer’s confined space program.

Authorized Entrant: An employee who is authorized by the employer to enter a confined space.

Blanking or Blinding: The absolute closure of a pipe, line, or duct by the fastening of a solid plate (such as a spectacle blind or a skillet blind) that completely covers the bore and that is capable of withstanding the maximum pressure of the pipe, line, or duct with no leakage beyond the plate.

Confined Space: Is defined as a space that:

• Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work; and
• Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit (for example, tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits are spaces that may have limited means of entry); and
• Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.

Double block and Bleed: The closure of a line, duct, or pipe by closing and locking or tagging two inline valves and by opening and locking or tagging a drain or vent valve in the line between the two closed valves.

Emergency: Any occurrence (including any failure of hazard control or monitoring equipment) or event(s) internal or external to the confined space, which could endanger entrants.

Engulfment: The surrounding and effective capture of a person by a liquid or finely divided solid (flowable) substance that can be aspirated to cause death by filling or plugging the respiratory system or that can exert enough force on the body to cause death by strangulation, constriction, or crushing.

Entry: The act by which a person intentionally passes through an opening into a permit required confined space. Entry includes ensuing work activities in that space and is considered to have occurred as soon as any part of the entrant’s body breaks the plane of an opening into the space.

Entry Permit: The written or printed document provided by the employer to allow and control entry into a permit space and that contains the information specified in section (f) of the Permit Required Confined Space standard. Refer to forms CS-1 and CS-2 in Appendix 1 of the written program. Form CS-2 is required at the West Lafayette campus only. This form or an equivalent form may be requested by the regional campus’ Response Rescue Team (e.g. responding fire department).

• The entry permit:
  • Defines the conditions under which the permit space may be entered.
  • States the reason(s) for entering the space. o Lists the anticipated hazards of the entry.
  • For entries where the individual authorizing the entry does not assume direct charge of the entry:
    • Lists the eligible attendants, entrants, and the individuals who may be in charge of the entry; and
    • Establishes the length of time for which the permit may remain valid.
    • Establishes special procedures, hot work permits etc. that are required to ensure safe entry and work operations.

Entry Supervisor: The person (such as the employee, foreman, or crew chief) responsible for determining if acceptable entry conditions are present at a permit space where entry is planned, for authorizing entry and overseeing entry operations, and for terminating entry.

• NOTE: An entry supervisor may also serve as an attendant or as an entrant, as long as that person is trained and equipped as required by this program for each role he or she fills. Also, the duties of entry supervisor may be passed from one individual to another during the course of an entry operation.

Hazardous Atmosphere: An atmosphere that may expose employees to the risk of death, incapacitation, impairment of ability to self-rescue (that is escape unaided from a permit space); injury, or acute illness from one or more of the following causes:

• Flammable gas, vapor, or mist in excess of 10 percent of its lower flammable limit (LFL);
• Airborne combustible dust at a concentration that meets or exceeds its LFL;
  • NOTE: This concentration may be approximated as a condition in which the dust obscures vision at a distance of 5 feet (1.52 m) or less.
• Atmospheric oxygen concentration below 19.5 percent or above 23.5 percent;
• Atmospheric concentration of any substance for which a dose or a permissible exposure limit is published in Subpart G, Occupational Health and Environmental Control, or in Subpart Z, Toxic and Hazardous Substances, of this part and which could result in employee exposure in excess of its dose or permissible exposure limit;
  • NOTE: An atmospheric concentration of any substance that is not capable of causing death, incapacitation, and impairment of ability to self-rescue, injury, or acute illness due to its health effects is not covered by this provision.
• Any other atmospheric condition that is immediately dangerous to life or health.
  • NOTE: For air contaminants for which OSHA has not determined a dose or permissible exposure limit, other sources of information, such as Material Safety Data Sheets, published information, and internal documents can provide guidance in establishing acceptable atmospheric conditions.

Hot Work Permit: The employer’s written authorization to perform operations, which could provide a source of ignition, such as riveting, welding, cutting, burning, or heating.

Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH): Any condition, which poses an immediate threat of loss of life, may result in irreversible or immediate sever health effects, may result in eye damage, irritation or other conditions which could impair escape from the permit space.

Immediate Severe Health Effects: Any acute clinical sign(s) of a serious, exposure-related reaction manifested within 72 hours after exposure.

Inerting: Means the displacement of the atmosphere in a permit required space by a noncombustible gas (such as nitrogen) to such an extent that the resulting atmosphere is noncombustible. It is a process of rendering the atmosphere of a permit required space non-flammable, non-explosive, or otherwise chemically non-reactive by such means as displacing or diluting the original atmosphere with steam or a gas that is non-reactive with respect to that space.

• NOTE: This procedure produces an IDLH oxygen-deficient atmosphere.

Isolation: The process by which a permit space is removed from service and completely protected against the release of energy and material into the space by such means as: blanking or blinding; misaligning or removing sections of lines, pipes, or ducts; a double block and bleed system; lockout or tag-out of all sources of energy or mechanical linkages.

Line Breaking: The intentional opening of a pipe, line, or duct that is or has been carrying flammable, corrosive, or toxic material, an inert gas, or any fluid at a volume, pressure, or temperature capable of causing injury.

Non-Permitted Confined Space: A confined space that does not contain or, with respect to atmospheric hazards, have the potential to contain any hazard capable of causing death or egregious physical harm. A location that is governed by specific regulations may require special procedures to ensure all hazards are controlled before entry (i.e. telecommunications manholes or high voltage manholes).

Oxygen Deficient Atmosphere: An atmosphere containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen by volume.

Oxygen Enriched Atmosphere: An atmosphere containing more than 23.5 percent oxygen by volume.

Permit Required Confined Space (Permit Space): A confined space that has one or more of the following characteristics:

• Contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere
• Contains a material that has the potential for engulfing an entrant
• Has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor which slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross-section; or
• Contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.

Permit Required Confined Space Program: The employer’s overall program for controlling, and where appropriate, for protecting employees from, permit space hazards and for regulating employee entry into permit spaces.

Permit System: The employer’s written procedures for preparing and issuing permits for entry and for returning the permit space to service following termination of entry.

Prohibited Condition: Any condition in a permit space that is not allowed by the permit during the period when entry is authorized.

Rescue Service: The personnel designated to rescue employees from confined spaces (such as Purdue Fire Department at the West Lafayette Campus).

Retrieval System: The equipment (including a retrieval line, chest or full-body harness, wrist-lets, and a lifting device or anchor) used for non-entry rescue of persons from permit spaces.

Testing: The process by which the atmospheric hazards that may confront entrants of a space are identified and evaluated. Testing includes specifying the tests that are to be performed in the space.

• NOTE: Testing enables employers both to devise and implement adequate control measures for the protection of authorized entrants and to determine if acceptable entry conditions are present immediately prior to and during entry. 

For confined space locations containing atmospheric or physical hazards, where neither the electrical generation and distribution nor telecommunication regulations apply, the permit –required confined space regulation (29 CFR 1910.146) must be used. The provisions of this regulation require the employer to provide the means, procedures, training, and equipment to mitigate hazards. In addition, documentation is required to verify compliance through the use of a written permit. The permit required confined space program has the following components:

• Location Listings and Hazard Identification: A list of permit-required confined spaces locations. The listing contains the location information, including a map when possible, and identifies the hazards of each location. The master list will be maintained by Environmental Health and Safety and updated annually.
• Employee Training: EHS shall provide training to all employees required to enter permit-required confined spaces and electrical and telecommunications manholes. Training must be conducted before the employee can participate in entries.
• Permit System: A written permit (form CS-1) must be completed at the entry location and before entry occurs to identify hazards, hazard controls, verification of availability of emergency rescue team, and listing entry team members. Form CS-2 must be completed and delivered to Purdue fire department at least 24 hours before the entry is to occur. The duration of the permit is a maximum of 24 hours. Completed permits are the responsibility of the initiating department to maintain.
• Safety Equipment: Safety equipment for use in permit-required confined space entry or confined space entry shall be approved by EHS. EHS will calibrate confined space entry monitors in accordance with manufacture specifications. Purchase and repair costs for equipment shall be the responsibility of the department owning the equipment.
• Special Hazards: Special permits may be required (i.e. burn permit) where welding or an open flame is to be used inside a building and also involves permit-confined space entry.

2.1 Purpose, Scope, and Policy

This section outlines the practices and procedures to protect Purdue University employees and contract employees from the hazards associated with permit required confined space entry, as specified in OSHA’s Confined Space Standard 29 CFR 1910.146. This document shall serve as the written program and shall apply to all personnel at Purdue University West Lafayette campus, regional campuses, University Research Farms, Agriculture Centers, and related facilities and operations. Furthermore, this section shall apply to all permit required confined spaces, or any non-permit-required space that becomes a permit- required space by introduction a new hazard, unless there is a more applicable standard. The EHS director or their designees shall be responsible for establishing and maintaining the Permit- Required Confined Space Entry Program. It is the policy of Purdue University, as required by the OSHA Permit-Required Confined Space Standard 29 CFR 1910.146, to ensure that atmospheric and physical hazards be identified associated with confined spaces and that this information and safe entry requirements be communicated to employees responsible for entry into such space.

2.2 OSHA Requirements

2.2.1 The Supervisor shall:

• Identify confined space(s) encountered by his/her employees, submit a list of the confined spaces identified to EHS, and post or distribute the list to affected employees. The list shall include:
  • Location
  • Physical dimensions and construction
  • Reason for employee entry
  • Potential hazards
  • Frequency of entry
• Submit the confined space list to EHS within 60 days of the effective date of this program.
• Update the confined space list annually and whenever there are changes affecting work conditions or when new confined spaces are identified.
• Ensure that all associated safety equipment is maintained and routinely inspected.
• Submit a list of affected employees to EHS.
• Update the list of affected employees whenever there are additions or deletions.
• Attend training for individuals in charge of or authorizing the entry or designating such individuals.
• Assure affected employees receive training as outlined below: o Employees working in proximity to permit required confined spaces shall receive awareness training that shall consists of:
  • Understanding what constitutes a confined space
  • Identification of potential hazards requiring permit entry procedures
• Employees who are required to enter any location defined as a permit entry required confined space shall receive confined space entry training:
  • Before there is a change in assigned duties;
  • Whenever there is a change in permit space operations that presents a hazard about which an employee has not been previously trained and;
  • Whenever the employer has reason to believe that there are deviations from the permit space entry procedure required by this program or that there are inadequacies in the employee’s knowledge or use of these procedures.
• The procedures and practices necessary for safe permit-required confined space entry, as outlined in the confined space training manual, include:
  • Specifying acceptable entry conditions;
  • Isolating the permit required space;
  • Purging, inerting, flushing, or ventilating the permit-required space to eliminate or control atmospheric hazards;
  • Providing pedestrian, vehicle or other barriers, as necessary, to protect the entrant from external hazards and;
  • Verifying that conditions in the permit-required space are acceptable for entry for the duration of an authorized entry.
• Ensure that procedures and entry permits are accurately completed and reviewed, and keep appropriate employee training and confined space entry permit records. Completed permits shall be maintained for a period of at least 1-year from the date of termination. Training records shall be maintained for at least 1 year from the date of an affected employee’s termination.
• Contact EHS before entry into any potential or known IDLH confined space is allowed. See the Purdue Respiratory Protection Program for requirements before entry into an IDLH condition.
• Ensure that confined space entry equipment is properly maintained and stored.
• Ensure that all entry permits are completed and signed upon termination of entry and appropriately filed or submitted to EHS.

2.2.2 The Employee shall:

• Notify the supervisor of any confined space encountered not on the confined space list.
• Notify his/her supervisor whenever work operations may require a hot work permit or work operations may result in chemical exposure or generation of hazardous atmosphere.
• Attend permit entry confined space training.
• Report to the supervisor jobs requiring entry into permit entry confined spaces.
• Comply with the requirements outlined when directly involved in entry of permit-confined spaces.
• Maintain training certificate and have available for inspection.

2.2.3 Environmental Health and Safety shall:

• Develop the written Confined Space Program and revise the program as necessary.
• Approve all monitoring equipment, safety equipment, and materials for safe work operations.
• Conduct all employee training.
• Approve employees to serve as authorized attendants, entrants, or entry supervisor.
• Establish employee proficiency in the duties required, including new or revised procedures. Certification shall contain each employee’s name, signature of trainer, and date of training.
• Inspect [potential] Permit Confined Space locations for determination of hazards.
• Provide signs for Permit Entry Confined Spaces.
• Provide periodic calibration of confined space entry monitoring equipment.
• Annually review completed permits.

2.2.4 Responding Fire Departments shall:

• Assume the role of the “In-Plant Rescue Team.”
• Ensure that at least one member of each rescue team maintains current certification in basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Inspect and maintain emergency retrieval equipment.
• Conduct rescue team practice at least annually, simulating permit space rescues in which team member remove dummies, mannequins or personnel through representative openings and portals whose size, configuration and accessibility closely approximate those of the permit spaces from which rescues may be required.

2.3 General Requirements

Hazard Identification : Each permit space shall be identified and evaluated, including a determination of the severity of the hazard. The supervisory staff shall report potential permit spaces to EHS. EHS shall maintain a listing of all permit spaces.

Permit System : A written permit system shall be utilized for entry into permit spaces. EHS shall develop the written permit system.

Employee Information : Signs shall be posted where feasible near permit spaces to notify employees what hazards may be present and that only authorized entrants may enter the permit space. Where signage is not feasible, potentially exposed employees shall be trained with regard to the danger of unauthorized entry of permit spaces. EHS shall be responsible for arranging signage of permit spaces.

Prevention of Unauthorized Entry: Unauthorized entry into permit spaces shall be prevented. Prevention measures include training, signs, and security measures. All employees in or around confined spaces shall attend confined space awareness training.

Equipment: Including: testing, monitoring, communication and personal protective equipment, shall be provided, maintained, and properly used. EHS will specify minimum equipment requirements for each permit space.

Rescue: Rescue procedures and equipment shall be in place prior to entry into a permit space. The use of retrieval equipment shall be required where there exists a potential for an IDLH atmosphere, engulfment, or vertical entries. There must be adequate attachment points outside the confined space for tying-off or otherwise securing retrieval lines for all authorized entrants. Where retrieval lines themselves could constitute an entanglement hazard or otherwise cannot be used, an equivalent method for rescue shall be used.

Protection from External Hazards: Barriers necessary to protect entrants from external hazards (pedestrian, vehicle, etc.) shall be in place prior to entry into a permit space.

2.4 Conditions for Permit Entry without a Permit

The alternate procedure below may be used, provided that the following conditions are met:

• All employees involved in the entry (entry supervisor, entrant, and attendant) shall have received the training required by this program.
• The only existing hazard in the permit space is an actual or potential hazardous atmosphere;
• Continuous forced air ventilation is sufficient to maintain a safe atmosphere for entry.
• Monitoring and inspection data is developed showing that the only existing hazard was atmospheric and that forced air ventilation is adequate in removing the hazard, and this information is documented and made available to each entrant; and
• Ventilation and monitoring of the space is adequately conducted without entry. If entry is necessary, all procedures of permit entry must be followed.
• For entries performed without a permit, which meet the set conditions above, the following entry procedure shall be used and documented using form CS-3:
• Any conditions making it unsafe to remove an entrance cover shall be eliminated before the cover is removed.
• When entrance covers are removed, the opening shall be promptly guarded by a railing, cover, or other temporary barrier that will prevent an accidental fall through the opening and that will protect each employee working in the space.
• Before an employee enters the space, the internal atmosphere shall be tested with a calibrated direct-reading instrument for the following conditions and in the order given:
  • Oxygen content,
  • Flammable gases and vapors, and
  • Potential toxic air contaminants.
• There may be no hazardous atmosphere within the space whenever any employee is inside.
• Continuous forced air ventilation shall be used, as follows:
  • An employee may not enter the space until the forced air ventilation has eliminated any hazardous atmosphere;
  • The forced air ventilation shall be directed as to ventilate the immediate areas where an employee is or will be present within the space and shall continue until all employees have left the space; and
  • The air supply for the forced air ventilation shall be from a clean source and may not increase the hazards in the space.
• The atmosphere within the space shall be periodically tested as necessary to ensure that the continuous forced air ventilation is preventing the accumulation of a hazardous atmosphere.
• If a hazardous atmosphere is detected during entry:
  • Each employee shall leave the space immediately;
  • The space shall be evaluated to determine how the hazardous atmosphere developed; and;
  • Measures shall be implemented to protect employees from the hazardous atmosphere before any subsequent entry takes place.
• The authorized entry supervisor shall verify that the space is safe for entry and that the measures required in Reclassification of Permit to Non-permit Space section have been taken. This is accomplished by a written certification containing the date, the location of the space, and the signature of the person providing the certification. The certification shall be made available to each employee entering the space.

Conditions for Space Reclassification – Non-Permit to Permit Space: When there are changes in the use or configuration of a non-permit confined space that might increase the hazards to entrants, EHS shall re-evaluate the space and, if necessary, reclassify it as a permit required confined space.

Conditions for Space Reclassification – Permit to Non-Permit: A space classified, as a permit required confined space might be reclassified as a non-permit confined space under the following procedure:

• If the permit space possesses no actual or potential atmospheric hazards and if all hazards within the space are eliminated without entry into the space, the permit space may be reclassified as a non-permit confined space for as long as the non-atmospheric hazards remain eliminated.
• If it is necessary to enter the permit space to eliminate the hazards, such entry shall be performed under the permit entry system of this program. If testing and inspection during that entry demonstrate that the hazards within the permit space are eliminated the space may be reclassified as a non-permit confined space for as long as the hazards remain eliminated.
• The maintenance work area is responsible for documenting that all hazards in a permit space have been eliminated using through a certification that contains the date, location of the space, and the signature of the person making the determination. The certification shall be available to each employee entering the space.
• If hazards arise within a permit space that has been declassified to a non-permit space, each employee in the space shall exit the space. EHS shall then reevaluate the space and determine whether it must be reclassified as a permit space, in accordance with other applicable provisions of this program.

Duty to other Employers (Contractors) – When Purdue University arranges to have employees of another employer (Contractor) perform work that involves permit space entry, the supervising department shall:

• Inform the contractor that the workplace contains permit spaces and that permit space entry is allowed only through compliance with a permit space program meeting the requirements of this program.
• Apprise the contractor of the elements, including the hazards identified and the University’s experience with the space that make the space in question a permit space.
• Apprise the contractor of any precautions or procedures the University has implemented for the protection of employees in or near permit spaces where contractor personnel will be working.
• Coordinate entry operations with the contractor, when both University personnel and contractor will be working in or near permit spaces. When employees of more than one employer are working simultaneously as authorized entrants in a permit space, the entry operations of one employer shall not endanger the employees of any other employer.
• Debrief the contractor at the conclusion of the entry operations regarding the permit space program followed and regarding any hazards confronted or created in permit spaces during entry operations and complete Form CS-4 and return to EHS.

Contractor Requirements In addition to complying with the permit space requirements that apply to all employers, each contractor who is retained to perform permit space entry operations shall:

• Obtain any available information regarding permit space hazards and entry operations from the supervising department.
• Coordinate entry operations with the supervising department when both University personnel and contractor personnel will be working in or near permit spaces, as required by this program.
• Inform the supervising department of the permit space program that the contractor will follow and of any hazards confronted or created in permit spaces, either through a debriefing (see Form CS-4) or during the entry.
• Coordinate emergency rescue availability using Form CS-2.

2.5 The Permit Confined Space Entry Program Shall Consists of:

Implementation of the necessary measures to prevent unauthorized entry.

Identification and Evaluation of the hazards of permit spaces before entry.

Following means, procedures, and practices necessary for safe permit space entry as outlined in the confined space training manual including any:

• Specifying acceptable entry conditions.
• Isolation of the permit space.
• Purging, inerting, flushing, or ventilating the permit space as to eliminate or control atmospheric hazards.
• Provision for pedestrian, vehicle or other barriers as necessary to protect entrant from external hazards.
• Verification that conditions in the permit space is acceptable for entry throughout the duration of an authorized entry.

The supervising department shall provide the following equipment listed below at no cost to the employee:

• Testing and monitoring equipment needed to evaluate oxygen content, explosive gases/vapor concentrations and specific toxic agents (e.g., carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide), that is within factory calibration.
• Ventilating equipment needed to obtain acceptable entry conditions.
• Communications equipment necessary for summoning rescue and emergency services.
• Personal protective equipment where feasible engineering and work practice controls do not adequately protect employees.
• Proper electrical and lighting equipment needed to enable employees to see well enough to work safely and exit the space.
• Barriers and shields as required protecting the entrant from external hazards.
• Equipment, such as ladders, needed for safe ingress and egress by authorized entrants.
• Rescue and emergency equipment, except equipment provided by rescue services.
• Any other equipment necessary for safe entry into and rescue from permit spaces.

Evaluate permit space conditions as follows when entry operations are conducted:

• Conditions shall be tested in the permit space to determine if acceptable entry conditions exist before entry is authorized to begin except if isolation of the space is because the space is large or is part of a continuous system (such as a sewer). Pre-entry testing shall be performed to the extent feasible before entry is authorized and, if entry is authorized, entry conditions shall be continuously monitored in the areas where authorized entrants are working.
• Test or monitor the permit space as necessary to determine if acceptable entry conditions are being maintained during the course of entry operations.
• When testing for atmospheric hazards, test first for oxygen, then for combustible gases and vapors, and then for toxic gases or vapors.
  • NOTE: Atmospheric testing for sewer entry: Minimum tests are oxygen deficiency, lower explosive limit and hydrogen sulfide concentration.
• At least one attendant shall be provided outside the permit space into which entry is authorized for the duration of entry operations.
• If multiple spaces are to be monitored by a single attendant, include in the permit program the means and procedures to enable the attendant to respond to an emergency affecting one or more of the permit spaces being monitored without distraction from the attendant’s responsibilities as outlined under “Duties of Attendant(s)” section of this document.
• Individuals shall be designated on the entry permit who are to have active roles (as, for example, authorized entrants, attendants, entry supervisors, or persons who test or monitor the atmosphere in a permit space) in entry operations, identify the duties of such employees, and provide each with the training specified in the “Training” section.
• Procedures for summoning rescue and emergency services, for rescuing entrants from permit spaces, and/or providing necessary emergency services to rescued employees and for preventing unauthorized personnel from attempting a rescue.
• A system for the preparation, issuance, use, and cancellation of entry permits.
• Procedures to coordinate entry operations when employees of more than one employer are working simultaneously as authorized entrants in a permit space, so that employees of one employer do not endanger the employees of any other employer.
• Procedures (such as closing off a permit space and canceling the permit) necessary for concluding the entry after entry operations have been completed.
• Review entry operations when there is reason to believe that the measures taken under the permit space program may not protect employees, and revise the program to correct deficiencies found to exist before subsequent entries are authorized.
  • NOTE: examples of circumstances requiring the review of the permit required confined space program are any unauthorized entry of permit space, the detection of a permit space hazards not covered by the permit, the detection of a condition prohibited by the permit, the occurrence of an injury or near-miss during entry, a change in the use or configuration of a permit space, and employee complaints about the effectiveness of the program.
• Review the permit required confined space program using the canceled permits and revise the program as necessary to ensure that employees participating in entry operations are protected from permit space hazards.

2.6 Permit System

The Entry Permit form, CS-1, shall be completed before authorizing entry into the permit-required confined space. Before the entry begins:

• Hazard determination measures shall be documented by preparing an entry permit as outlined below.
• The entry supervisor, identified on the permit, shall sign the entry permit to authorize entry.

The entry supervisor shall terminate entry and cancel the entry permit when:

• The entry operation covered by the entry permit has been completed; or
• A condition that is not allowed under the entry permit arises in or near the permit space.

The supervising department shall retain each canceled entry permit for at least 1 year to facilitate the review of the permit required confined space program. Any problems encountered during an entry operation shall be noted on the permit so that appropriate revisions to the permit space program can be made.

2.6.1 Entry Permit

The entry permit authorizing entry into a permit space shall identify:

• C.1.1 The permit space to be entered.
• C.1.2 The purpose of the entry.
• C.1.3 The date and duration of the authorized entry permit.
• C.1.4 The name of each authorized entrants within the space.
• C.1.5 The personnel, by name, currently serving as entry supervisor, with a space for the signature or initials of the entry supervisor who originally authorized entry.
• C.1.6 The hazards of the permit space to be entered.
• C.1.7 The measures used to isolate the permit space and to eliminate or control permit space hazards before entry.
• C.1.8 The acceptable entry conditions.
• C.1.9 The results of initial and periodic tests accompanied by the names or initials of the testers and by an indication of when the tests were performed.
• C.1.10 The rescue and emergency services available and the means (such as the equipment to be used and numbers to call) for summoning those services.
• C.1.11 The communication procedures used by authorized entrants and attendants to maintain contact during the entry.
• C.1.12 Equipment, such as personal protective equipment, testing equipment, communications equipment, alarm systems, and rescue equipment to be provided.
• C.1.13 Any other information whose inclusion is necessary, given the circumstances of the particular confined space, in order to ensure employee safety.
• C.1.14 Any additional permits, such as for hot work, issued to authorized work in the permit space. The authorized entry permit shall be made available at the time of entry to all authorized entrants, by posting it at the entry portal or by any other equally effective means; so that the entrants can confirm that pre-entry preparations have been completed. The duration of the permit may not exceed the time required to complete the assigned task or job identified on the permit in accordance with the purpose of the entry.

2.7 Training

Confined space awareness training shall be provided for university employees not required to enter permit required confined spaces as a part of their job duties, but who work in proximity to these areas. Awareness training shall consist of:

• Understanding what constitutes a confined space.
• Identifying potential hazards requiring permit entry procedures.

Confined space entry training shall be provided for employees required, in the course of completing their job duties, to enter any location defined as a permit entry required confined space. Training shall be provided to each affected employee:

• Before the employee is first assigned duties under this program.
• Before there is a change in assigned duties.
• Whenever there is a change in permit space operations that presents a hazard about which an employee has not been previously trained.
• Whenever the supervising department has reason to believe either that there are deviations from permit space entry procedures or that there are inadequacies in the employee’s knowledge or use of these procedures.

The training shall establish employee proficiency in the duties required by this program and shall include new or revised procedures, as necessary, for compliance with this program. EHS shall certify that the training has been accomplished. The certification shall contain each employee’s name, the signatures of the trainers, and the dates of training. The certification, refer to form CS-6, shall be available for inspection.

2.7.1 Duties of the Entry Supervisor

• Know the hazards that may be faced during entry, including the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequences of the exposure;
• Verify, by checking that the appropriate entries have been made on the permit, that all tests specified by the permit have been conducted and that all procedures and equipment specified by the permit are in place before endorsing the permit and allowing entry to begin;
• Terminate the entry and cancel the permit as required when:
  • The entry operation covered by the entry permit has been completed; or
  • A condition that is not allowed under the entry permit arises in or near the permit space;
• Verify that rescue services are available and that the means for summoning them are operable.
• Remove unauthorized individuals who enter or who attempt to enter the permit space during entry operations.
• Determine, whenever responsibility for a permit space entry operation is transferred to a different entry supervisor and at intervals dictated by the hazards and operations performed within the space that entry operations remain consistent with terms of the entry permit and that acceptable entry conditions are maintained.

2.7.2 Duties of the Authorized Entrant(s)

• Know the hazards that may be faced during entry, including the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequences of the exposure.
• Use equipment properly in accordance with training received.
• Communicate with the attendant as necessary to enable the attendant to monitor entrant status and to alert the attendant to the need to evacuate the space as required.
• Alert the attendant whenever:
  • The entrant recognizes any warning signs or symptoms of exposure to a dangerous situation, or
  • The entrant detects a prohibited condition.
• Exit from the space as quickly as possible whenever:
  • An order to evacuate is given by the attendant or the entry supervisor,
  • The entrant recognizes any warning sign or symptom of exposure to a dangerous situation,
  • The entrant detects a prohibited condition, or
  • An evacuation alarm is activated.

2.7.3 Protective Equipment – Authorized entrant(s) shall:

• Implement non-entry rescue, retrieval systems or methods whenever an authorized entrant enters a permit space, unless the retrieval equipment would increase the overall risk of entry or would not contribute to the rescue of the entrant.
• Use a chest or full body harness, with a retrieval line attached at the center of the entrants back near shoulder level, or above the entrant’s head. Wrist-lets may be used in lieu of the chest or full body harness if it can be demonstrated that the use of a chest or full body harness is infeasible or creates a greater hazard and that the use of wrist-lets is the safest and most effective alternative.
• Ensure the other end of the retrieval line is attached to a mechanical device or fixed point outside the permit space in such a manner that rescue can begin as soon as the rescuerbecomes aware that rescue is necessary. A mechanical device shall be available to retrieve personnel from vertical type permit spaces more than 5 feet deep.
• Be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment.
• Use all personal protective equipment, such as retrieval lines, respirators, or clothing needed for safe entry and exit in accordance with training received.
• Know of the external barriers needed to protect entrants from external hazards and of the proper use of those barriers (e.g., traffic barriers).
• Wear full body harness during all entries requiring portable ventilation.

2.7.4 Self-Rescue – Authorized entrant(s) shall exit the Permit Space when:

• The attendant orders evacuation;
• An automatic monitoring equipment alarm is activated; or
• The authorized entrant(s) perceive they are in danger.

2.7.5 Duties of the Attendant(s)

• Know the hazards that may be faced during entry, including the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequences of the exposure.
• Be aware of possible behavioral effects of hazardous exposure in authorized entrants.
• Maintain a continuous accurate count of authorized entrants in the permit space and ensure that the means used to identify authorized entrants accurately identifies who is in the permit space.
• Remain outside the permit space during entry operations until relieved by another authorized attendant.
• Communicate with authorized entrants as necessary to monitor entrant status and to alert entrants of the need to evacuate the space.
• Monitor activities inside and outside the space to determine if it is safe for entrants to remain in the space and orders the authorized entrants to evacuate the permit space immediately under any of the following conditions:
  • If the attendant detects a prohibited condition;
  • If the attendant detects the behavioral effects of hazards exposure in an authorized entrant;
  • If the attendant detects a situation outside the space that could endanger the authorized entrants; or
  • If the attendant cannot effectively and safely perform all the duties required under this section.
• Summon rescue and other emergency services as soon as the attendant determines that authorized entrants may need assistance to escape from permit space hazards.
• Take the following actions when unauthorized persons approach or enter a permit space while entry is underway:
  • Warn unauthorized persons that they must stay away from the permit space;
  • Advise the unauthorized persons that they must exit immediately if they have entered the permit space; and
  • Inform the authorized entrants and entry supervisor if unauthorized persons have entered the permit space.
• Perform non-entry rescue as specified by the rescue procedure.
• Perform no duties that might interfere with the attendant’s primary duty to monitor and protect the authorized entrants.

2.7.6 Rescue and Emergency Services

• Personnel assigned to a rescue team shall be provided with and trained to make proper use of the personal protective equipment, including respirators, and rescue equipment necessary for making rescues from Permit Spaces.
• The rescue team shall be trained to perform the assigned rescue functions and shall be trained as authorized entrants.
• Rescue teams shall practice making rescues at least once every twelve months by means of simulated rescue operations in which they remove dummies, mannequins, or personnel through representative openings and portals whose size, configuration and accessibility closely approximate those of the spaces from which rescues may be required.
• Each member of each rescue team shall be currently certified in basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. At least one member of the rescue service holding current certification in first aid and CPR shall be available.
• When Purdue University arranges to have persons other than University employees perform permit space rescue, the University shall.
• Inform the rescue service of the hazards they may confront when called on to perform rescue at university facilities, and
• Provide the rescue service with access to all permit spaces from which rescue may be necessary so that the rescue service can develop appropriate rescue plan and practice operations.

2.8 Additional Information

For addition information concerning this program contact EHS, B173 HAMP, 765-494-6371.

3.1 Electrical Confined Space Entry Policy

The purpose of this policy is to identify and control hazards before initiating entry into a confined space as outlined in 29 CFR 1910.269 (Electrical Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution). If conditions exist and/or hazards are not controlled in the application of this policy the permit-entry confined space policy must be used to ensure that adequate controls are used. All electrical employees required to enter below grade unventilated locations, as a portion of their work responsibilities, shall receive formal training on confined space entry before performing such work.

3.1.1 Pre-entry Procedures for Entry into Below Grade Locations

• An evaluation shall be conducted to check for the excessive heat, pressure by touching and then carefully removing the manhole lid.
• Following removal of a manhole lid, the opening shall be promptly guarded with a railing, temporary cover or other barrier intended to prevent an accidental fall through the opening and to protect entrant from falling objects.
• Before entry the internal atmosphere shall be tested for the following:
  • Oxygen content: Safe Entry Range is 19.5% to 23.5%)
  • Combustible gases or vapors: Safe Entry Range is less than 10% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)
  • If the testing identifies levels outside the safe entry ranges forced air ventilation may be used to bring the atmospheric levels back into the safe entry ranges before entry is initiated.
• Continuous atmospheric monitoring shall be conducted when conditions require forced air ventilation to be used before entry.

3.1.2 Attendants for Manholes

• While work is being performed in a manhole containing energized electrical equipment, an employee with basic first aid and CPR training shall be immediately available to render emergency assistance.
• The attendant may enter a manhole for brief periods in the process of his/her job duties.
• For the purpose of inspection, house-keeping, taking readings or other similar work, an employee working alone may enter, for brief periods of time, a manhole where energized electrical equipment is in service, if it can be demonstrated that the employee will be protected from electrical hazards.

3.2 Telecommunication Confined Space Entry Policy

The purpose of this policy is to identify and control hazards before initiating entry into a confined space as outlined in 29 CFR 1910.268(o) (Telecommunication). If conditions exist and/or hazards are not controlled in the application of this policy the permit-entry confined space policy must be used to ensure that adequate controls are used.

3.2.1 Guarding of Manholes and Street Openings

• Upon removal of a manhole lid or hatch one of the following methods will be used to prevent an accidental fall through the opening:
  • Use of a portable railing to enclose the opening or;
  • Use of cone to demarcate the opening or;
  • Any other equally effective means.
• Entry opening located where safety hazards are created by traffic patterns (i.e., vehicle or pedestrian) require:
  • Placement of flags, cones or other traffic control devices placed conspicuously to alert oncoming traffic or;
  • Placement of a vehicle as a barrier in the direction of the oncoming traffic.

3.2.2 Pre-Entry Requirements for Manholes and Un-Vented Vaults

• Before initiating entry, test the internal atmosphere for oxygen content and the presence of combustible gases or vapors.
  • Safe Entry Level for oxygen is between 19.5 and 23.5%
  • Safe Entry Level for combustible gases or vapors is less than 10% of the LEL
• If unsafe internal atmospheric conditions are present, the use of portable forced air ventilation to bring oxygen and combustible gases or vapors levels to safe entry levels before entry.
• A fuel tank or cylinder (e.g., propane) may not be in a manhole unless in immediate use.

3.2.3 Locations Greater than 4 Foot in Depth

• A ladder shall be used to enter and exit all locations greater than 4 foot in depth.

3.2.4 First-Aid Availability

An employee trained in basic first-aid shall be available at the work site during entries if any of the following conditions exist:

• Entry is required into a manhole or vault where joint utilities exist and consist of energized electrical power;
• Where the opening to the underground location cannot be adequately guarded to prevent an accidental fall through the opening or from foreign objects entering the location.
• Where adequate controls (e.g., lights, barricades etc.) cannot be placed to provide employees a safe work environment from the hazards generated from traffic.

• Confined Space Entry Permit: CS-1 (DocuSign)
• A-2: Confined Space Entry Data
• A-3: Non-Permit Confined Space Certification
• A-4: Permit Confined Space Entry Contractor Debriefing
• Confined Space Meter Calibration: CS-5 (DocuSign)

B.1: Permit-Required Confined Space

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
  29 CFR 1910.146 – Permit-Required Confined Spaces.

B.2: Electrical Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution Confined Space Entry Requirements

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
  29 CFR 1910.269 – Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution.

B.3: Telecommunications Standard

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
  29 CFR 1910.268 – Telecommunications.

C.1 Introduction

The tunnel system on campus consists of approximately six miles of underground passageways. The tunnels supply, steam lines, compressed air, electrical power, and data lines to the majority of buildings on campus. The tunnel system is a controlled access work area and only authorized personnel are allowed to enter. Non-Purdue employees such as contractors will be advised of the conditions of and for occupying the tunnel system by a representative of Construction Health and Safety (EHS).

C.1.1 Confined Space Classification

The walkable tunnels on campus are classified as non-permit required confined spaces. Normal activities performed in the tunnel include routine inspection/walkthroughs, meter reading, and cleaning of nonhazardous debris. During normal operation conditions, the walkable tunnel system;

• is large enough to permit bodily entry;
• has limited means of entry/egress (most entry points require entrants to climb down a ladder, climb over pipes, or travel extended distances to exit);
• is not designed for continuous human occupancy;
• has mechanical ventilation system to provide fresh air to occupants and reduce the likelihood of a hazardous atmosphere to develop;
• does not contain a material with a potential to engulf and entrant;
• does not have an internal configuration in which an entrant could become trapped (there is more than one exit point in each section of walkable tunnel); and
• there are no other recognized serious safety or health hazards.

Areas of the tunnel with cross section dimensions less than 22” wide or 48” tall are classified as permit required confined spaces. Dimensions are measured from wall to wall and floor to ceiling. Even during normal operations, these non-walkable sections of the tunnel system;

• have the potential for a hazardous atmosphere (the mechanical ventilation system does not adequately ventilate these spaces);
• have a small enough cross section that entrants could become trapped by pipes in the area; and
• usually have a dead end at one end.

Entry into the walkable tunnel system will follow the practices/procedures set forth in this policy. Entry into any non-walkable section of tunnel system shall follow permit required entry requirements.

C.1.2 Conditions/Activities that Reclassify the Tunnel as a Permit Required Confined Space

The tunnel system, like any confined space is a dynamic environment. There are certain conditions and activities that may introduce hazards to entrants. Work activities must be evaluated to determine if they would present hazards which would cause the space to be reclassified as a permit required space. The following is a list of conditions or activities that would reclassify the tunnel as a permit required confined space. If any of these conditions is met, the area may only be entered using permit entry procedures. This is not an all-encompassing list of activities which would require reclassification.

• Damaged Utility lines present
• Hot work (cutting, welding, brazing)
• Hot Tapping
• Energized electrical work
• Purging or bleeding lines
• Introduction of more than one gallon of any type of chemical at any one time

C.2 Required Training Prior to Entry in the Tunnel System

Before entering the tunnels for the first time, Purdue employees are required to complete the following training programs.

• Asbestos Awareness – Available through EHS
• Confined Space – Available through EHS
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Steam Tunnel Entry
• Heat Stress

Additional training may be needed, based on specific tasks being performed while in the steam tunnel. Additional training may include but is not limited to high voltage/electrical, lockout/tagout, and bloodborne pathogen.

C.3 Tunnel System Entry Requirements

C.3.1 Preplanning for Work in Steam Tunnels

Employees must notify their supervisor prior to entering the tunnel system. The supervisor shall verify that the employee has received the proper training to enter the tunnels. Entry into the tunnel system must be coordinated with Utilities Operations staff, Purdue Police, or Purdue Fire Department personnel. The supervisor and employee shall also discuss the scope of work to be performed while in the tunnel. Certain activities can create additional hazards within the tunnel which may reclassify the area as a permit required confined space. Entry preplanning shall include an assessment of all potential hazards, means and methods of hazards control, and emergency action plans including but not limited to:

• Identities and locations of energized steam, gas, and electrical lines
• Locations of exposed hot surfaces
• Signs of symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
• Means of communication
• Hazards created by work activity (certain activities will reclassify the space as a permit required space)
• External Hazards
• Means to control hazards (lockout/tagout)
• Required equipment
• Steam line de-energization and lockout procedures
• Potential emergency situations and response

C.3.2 Entry Points

Where possible, authorized individuals must enter the tunnel system through entry doors in the lower levels of campus buildings. Upon entry, doors must be closed and secured. If necessary, authorized individuals may also gain entrance to the tunnel system by properly opening an access lid. The access lid must be adequately guarded to prevent accidental or unauthorized entry. Prior to or immediately following removal of a manhole lid or opening of a hatch use one of the following methods to prevent an accidental fall through the opening:

• Use a portable railing to surround the opening; or
• Use an 8 ft. fence to completely surround the opening or work area

It is the entrant’s responsibility to maintain security at access points to prevent unauthorized entry into tunnels.

C.3.3 Proper Clothing and Equipment

It is required to wear long pants to protect lower extremities from burns and cuts when crossing steam lines and walking in tight quarters. Required equipment includes a communication device (radio or cell phone) and a flashlight. Work in the tunnel may require additional equipment and protective clothing (e.g., safety foot wear, safety glasses, hardhat, and leather gloves).

C.3.4 Electrical Safety

Plugging into light fixtures using screw in type adaptors or other means is not allowed. The lighting electrical system cannot be used to provide power to any auxiliary electrical device, which includes but is not limited to tools, radios, or auxiliary lights.

C.3.5 Security

The following departments have keys for permanent access to the tunnel system:

• Energy & Utilities
• Purdue Police Department
• Purdue Fire Department

If employees from other departments need to access the tunnel, they must coordinate entry with one of these departments and may be issued a temporary key. Non-Purdue employees (contractors) will never be issued a key to the tunnels. If a section of the tunnel is to be part of a construction site, the contractor may remove the existing lock and secure access points with their own lock. Lockable barriers must also be placed within the tunnel at all access points to the construction area. Contractors are responsible for security of sections of tunnel within the construction site. Prior to entering the tunnels employees must notify the Purdue Police department, informing them the time and the location. All access points must be either secured or continuously monitored during entry into the tunnels to prevent unauthorized entry. Upon leaving the tunnels, they must notify Purdue Police that they have exited the tunnels. Any authorized personnel occupying the tunnels outside of normal university working hours (7:30 am – 4:00 pm) are required to obey the following:

• Notify Energy & Utilities preferably 24 hours prior to entry
• Notify Purdue Police before entering and after exiting the tunnels
• Work in pairs, or execute a check-in policy; Entrant contacts someone in their organization once every hour for the duration of the entry

C.3.6 Contractor Work in Tunnels

Contractors whose scope of work involves work in the tunnel system will be informed of all conditions of and for occupying the tunnel system. The contractor will assume overall responsibility for the construction site. It is the contractor’s responsibility to secure the worksite by doing the following:

• Isolate portions of the tunnel within their scope of work by installing lockable barriers within the tunnel to prevent unauthorized entry into the area
• If entry doors from buildings lead into the construction site of the tunnel, post signs that alert others that the door opens into a construction site
• Post 24-hour emergency contact numbers at each entrance into the tunnel construction site
• If Purdue employees must access the tunnel construction site, the contractor must notify the employees of conditions and escort them within the area

If the contractor encounters additional hazards within the tunnel or performs work creates an additional hazard (as defined in section B.1.2), the contractor must:

• Bring additional hazards to the university’s attention
• Coordinate with Purdue to reassess and reclassify the space as a permit required confined space for the duration of the project or until hazards are abated
• Perform entry into the space that complies with applicable regulations (29 CFR 1910.146 or 29 CFR 1926.800)

C.4 General Tunnel Entry Procedure

C.4.1 Non-Permit Entry

Any entry into the tunnel system that does not require a permit must comply with the following procedure

• Notify the Purdue Police department prior to entering the tunnel
• Enter the tunnel through an access door in the basement of a building, if the tunnel must be access through an outdoor floor hatch, it must be guarded appropriately
• After entering, immediately close and secure the access door
• Perform assigned duties
• Exit the tunnel through a building access door, or properly guarded floor hatch
• Immediately close and secure the door
• Notify Purdue Police that you have exited the tunnel

C.4.2 Permit Required Entry

Entry into areas of the tunnel classified as permit required confined spaces must comply with all requirements of the University’s Permit Required Confined Space Program. Below is a general procedure for such entries.

• Notify the Purdue Police and Fire departments as far in advance of the entry as possible.
• Review the specific space evaluation form and work to be done in the space to determine how to control all of the hazards within the space
• Assign entry team duties and fill out the entry permit
• Perform pre entry atmospheric testing
• Notify the Purdue Police and Fire departments prior to entering the space
• Perform continuous atmospheric monitoring
• Attendant and entrant must stay in constant communication
• After work is complete and entrant has exited the space, notify the Purdue Police and Fire departments to cancel the permit

Access to areas around work that reclassifies an area non-permit space of the tunnel to a permit space must comply with the following procedure. (Dimensions of the area to be classified as permit space are dependent on hazards created and should be determined by a qualified individual prior to work being performed). If there is any doubt as to the tunnel’s classification, it must be treated as a permit required confined space.

• Notify the Purdue Police and Fire departments as far in advance of the work as possible.
• Review the specific work to be done in the space to determine how to control all of the hazards within the space
• Assign entry team duties and fill out the entry permit
• Control as many hazards as possible (lockout/tagout, blocking and bleeding lines, etc.)
• Notify the Purdue Police and Fire departments prior beginning work
• Perform continuous atmospheric monitoring
• Attendant and entrant must stay in constant communication
• After work is complete and entrant has exited the space, notify the Purdue Police and Fire departments to cancel the permit

July 8, 2024

• Added this appendix
• Changed “Environmental Health and Safety” and “ EHS” to “Environmental Health and Safety” and “EHS” respectively
• Corrected formatting, punctuation, and spelling
• Changed telephone number format to “###-###-####”
• Changed “Utilities Distribution” to “Energy & Utilities “
• Removed hyperlinks
• Section 3
  • 3.1.1 bullet points have been reworded
  • 3.2.2 bullet points have been reworded