There are numerous of Confined Spaces throughout the University. At SFU, confined spaces can only be accessed by qualified contractors or trades to perform various maintenance and services. Confined spaces can present unique hazards, and its essential that all contractors adhere to all safety protocols and regulatory requirement to prevent accidents and ensure a safety working environment. 

A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed area that is large enough for a worker to enter. The space may be enclosed on all sides or as few as two sides. They are not designed for someone to work in regularly and they are places where entry may be needed from time to time for the purpose of work. 

Required Documentation:

• Confined Space Program 
  • Any contractor who will require to enter or perform work in a confined space on campus must have a valid Confined Space Program that at a minimum meets WorkSafeBC - Part 9. 
• Confined Space Risk Assessment
  • A comprehensive risk assessment that assess the site specific confined space that requires entry and completed by a qualified person, as defined by WorkSafeBC. This assessment will review all the known and potential hazards in the space and determine the appropriate control measures to prevent accident or injuries. This risk assessment must also have a ranking for the space(s).
• Confined Space Procedures
  • There are different types of procedure that are required to enter any confined spaces. Some primary procedures that is mandatory includes, but not limited too are: entry procedure, rescue/emergency procedure and general work procedures. Procedures must be written in a detailed step by step site-specific instruction for workers to follow.
• Confined Space Entry Permit
  • At SFU, a confined space entry permit is required for any confined space entry. This is a permit system that is specific to the site and the space that is entered. Some of the information in the permits includes but not limited too: location, date, expiry, purpose, authorization, testing and list of entrants.

Requirement: BC OHS Regulation Part 9: Confined Spaces