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Non-Permit Entry

This non-permit entry procedure is to be used only if:

  1. There are no existing or potential hazards within the space, or 
  2. Any and all hazards identified have been eliminated, isolated, or otherwise controlled without entry into the space so as not to expose entrants to additional risk. 

The entry supervisor must complete the Assessment Form prior to personnel entering the confined space.

  1. Atmospheric testing must be conducted and results must be recorded on the form.
  2. Document on the form that no hazards exist, or that all existing or potential hazards have been identified and eliminated or isolated prior to entry (and the space reclassified to non-permit required) by checking the first box under the section indicating "For the purposes of this entry (check one of the boxes below)."
  3. Establish personal protective equipment and procedural requirements for entry, such as any equipment needed for entry, work to be performed, or emergencies.
  4. When using an attendant as a best practice (highly recommended), establish and maintain communication with entrants.
  5. Entry supervisor must sign as "authorizing supervisor" to approve entry into the space. This signature indicates that:
    • The space has been assessed and there are no conditions that would make the space permit-required.
    • All entrants and attendants have been trained.
    • All equipment necessary for entry and rescue has been provided and is on-site.
    • Entry may proceed.
  6. Post the Assessment Form at the entrance point of the confined space.
  7. Should conditions arise that may affect the health or safety of personnel inside the space, the space must be evacuated and the space reverts back to permit-required. The entry supervisor must reassess the confined space and reevaluate the entry procedure before resuming confined space activities.
  8. When work is completed and all personnel has exited the space, the entry supervisor must terminate the entry by signing and dating the bottom of the form. This indicates that all personnel are out of the space, and it has been returned to its normal state.
  9. The form should be retained by the department and periodically forwarded to Environmental Health & Safety for review and retention.

Contact Information

Robin McCall-Miller, Occupational Safety Program Manager

Phone: 540-231-2341
Email: rmmiller@vt.edu

 

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