What is a confined space?

Under the model WHS Regulations (reg 5), a confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not designed or intended primarily for human occupancy, has a restricted means of entry and exit, and is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety from an atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level, from a harmful concentration of an airborne contaminant or flammable gas, or from engulfment. Examples include tanks, silos, pits, sewers, pipes and ducts. A space can be a confined space even if a person can stand up or move around inside it.

Do I need a permit to enter a confined space?

Yes. Under the model WHS Regulations reg 67, a PCBU must ensure a confined space entry permit is issued before any worker enters a confined space. The permit must record the confined space, the names of workers permitted to enter, the period the permit applies, the work to be done and the measures to control risk, and it must provide for atmospheric testing. Entry without a current permit is not permitted.

What must a confined space entry permit cover?

A confined space entry permit covers the space and site, the work to be carried out, the hazards present, the atmospheric test readings and monitoring arrangements, the control measures in place (such as ventilation, purging and isolation of services), the standby person and communication, the emergency and rescue arrangements, the workers authorised to enter, the permit period, and the signatures authorising entry. These reflect the duties in model WHS Regulations regs 67-77 (Part 4.3).

Do I need a standby person for confined space entry?

Yes. The model WHS Regulations require a standby person to be stationed outside the confined space to monitor entrants and initiate emergency procedures. The standby person maintains continuous communication with the workers inside and must not enter the space to attempt a rescue unless it is safe and they are part of a planned, equipped rescue. A documented emergency and rescue plan must be in place before entry.

What atmospheric tests are required before entering a confined space?

Before entry, a competent person must test the atmosphere for oxygen, flammable gases and vapours, and any airborne contaminants relevant to the space. General action limits used to screen the atmosphere are an oxygen concentration of 19.5% to 23.5% by volume, and flammable gas or vapour at or below 5% of the lower explosive limit (% LEL). If a reading is outside the safe range, the space must be ventilated or purged and re-tested before entry. Continuous monitoring may be required while the space is occupied. Set the limits for the specific contaminants present.

Confined Space Entry Permit Builder

Build a confined space entry permit — atmosphere testing, hazards, controls, standby and rescue — under the WHS Regulations Part 4.3.

Last verified: 21 June 2026Jump to calculator ↓

Assemble a structured confined space entry permit: the space and work, hazards, atmospheric test readings (oxygen, flammable % LEL, toxic), control measures, standby person, rescue plan, authorised entrants and the permit period — with a built-in DO NOT ENTER check for unsafe readings — then print it or save it as a PDF. Reflects the model WHS Regulations Part 4.3 (regs 67-77); requirements vary by jurisdiction.

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Confined Space Entry Permit Builder

Confined space and site

Work and permit period

Hazards identified

Atmospheric testing

Control measures

Standby person and rescue

Authorised entrants and sign-off

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