Maintenance, Repair & Operations

Confined Entry Considerations

Aug. 20, 2019

Look for these potential dangers before entering a confined space.

You approach a confined space and see it doesn't have a confined entry permit. Is it safe to enter? That depends. If you can verify the space has been designated a non-permit space, it's safe to enter. If you can't verify that, assume a permit is required and proceed accordingly.

If the space has been designated non-permit and you smell fumes or you're feeling light-headed in there, maybe there's a new danger. Exit the space and report the problem.

Look for these potential dangers:

A condition of the permit hasn't been met.
A condition prohibited by the permit exists.
The permit doesn't mention the specific area in which you will be working.
The confined space is wide enough for only one person, but there's no attendant with extraction equipment.
You have an attendant, but that person acts distracted, doesn't have a radio, or isn't physically strong enough to extract you.
The space contains combustible gas, but there's no fire attendant.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.