False assumptions about confined entry can put you into a “Hotel California” situation. You may check out, but you’ll never leave (alive anyhow). So that you can always walk out of a confined entry space, here are five assumptions you should never make.
- “If the permit was good yesterday, it’s good today.” Your confined entry permit is good only for the time stated on the permit. If the permit has expired, don’t enter without a new permit. And remember, this is your permit.
- “The permit applies to everything beyond this door.” Read carefully what area the permit describes. It might not even cover the area where you need to work.
- “As long as I check the important items, I’ll be fine.” If it’s on the permit, it’s important. Personally make sure every condition of the permit is satisfied.
- “Whoever wrote the permit thought of all hazards.” A confined entry permit addresses only specific types of hazards. It doesn’t, for example, address electrical hazards.
- “I’ll be quick.” Famous last words.
