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Enclosed space entry checklist
Enclosed space entry remains the accident that kills experienced seafarers and the people who try to save them. Work through this in order at the space itself, not in the ship's office. Progress saves in this browser and prints with the permit.
0 of 35 items complete
1. Before the permit is raised
The decision point: can the job be done without entering at all?
2. Permit to work
3. Atmosphere testing
4. Ventilation and access
5. Equipment and rescue readiness
6. During and after the entry
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Full Ahead Maritime keeps every item above as a live record against your vessels — due dates, responsible officer, attached evidence and a tamper-evident history an auditor can read. It works offline at sea and syncs when the link returns.
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<iframe src="https://fullaheadmaritime.com/embed/enclosed-space-entry-checklist"
width="100%" height="900" style="border:0" loading="lazy"
title="Enclosed space entry checklist"></iframe>The enclosed space entry procedure, in order
The checklist above is the working document. This is the shape of the procedure it enforces — the sequence SOLAS Regulation III/19 and the IMO revised recommendations expect to see, and the one a PSC officer will ask you to walk through.
- 1
Decide whether entry is necessary
Entry into an enclosed space is the last option. Record why an inspection camera, drone or external means cannot do the job before anyone opens the space.
- 2
Isolate and prepare the space
Blank or lock out every connecting line, secure and tag valves, drain and clean, then gas-free by a recorded method. Treat adjacent spaces as a live source of leakage.
- 3
Raise the permit to work
The authorised person issues a time-limited permit displayed at the entrance, naming every entrant, with the bridge and engine control room informed.
- 4
Test the atmosphere before entry
With a calibrated, bump-tested meter: oxygen 20.9% by volume, flammable vapour not more than 1% LFL, toxic gases below exposure limits, read at top, middle and bottom.
- 5
Ventilate continuously
Mechanical ventilation runs before and throughout the entry. Never use oxygen to ventilate, and re-test after any interruption.
- 6
Post the attendant and rig rescue
A standby attendant remains at the entrance with communications, and the rescue equipment and breathing apparatus are rigged before the first person goes in.
- 7
Enter, monitor, and log
Entry and exit times are logged, the atmosphere is monitored during the work, and everyone leaves immediately on any alarm or loss of communication.
- 8
Close out the permit
Account for all persons and equipment, secure the space, cancel the permit and file the readings and permit as evidence for ISM audit and PSC inspection.
Common questions
What counts as an enclosed space?
Any space with limited openings for entry and exit, inadequate natural ventilation, and not designed for continuous worker occupancy — cargo holds and tanks, ballast and void spaces, cofferdams, duct keels, chain lockers, sewage and fuel tanks, boilers, and spaces adjacent to any of these.
What atmosphere readings are required before entry?
Oxygen at 20.9% by volume, flammable vapour not more than 1% of the lower flammable limit, and toxic gases such as hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide below the applicable occupational exposure limit. Readings are taken at several depths with a calibrated, bump-tested meter before any entry is permitted.
How often must enclosed space entry and rescue drills be held?
SOLAS requires crew members with enclosed space entry or rescue responsibilities to participate in a drill at least once every two months, covering PPE checks, communication, rescue equipment, first aid and resuscitation.
Why do rescuers become the casualties?
Because entry is attempted without breathing apparatus when a colleague collapses. The single most effective control is a briefed rescue plan and standby team at the entrance, with the rescue equipment already rigged before anyone goes in.
Keep drills, permits and evidence in one auditable place
Full Ahead Maritime holds every permit, drill and piece of evidence against the vessel — offline at sea, synced ashore.