Enclosed space entry checklist

1. Before the permit is raised

The decision point: can the job be done without entering at all?

• Alternative to entry considered and documented — inspection camera, drone, or external means.
• Risk assessment completed for this specific space and this specific task.
• Space identified, isolated and the entry plan agreed with the master or responsible officer.
• All connecting lines blanked or locked out; valves secured and tagged.
• Space drained, cleaned and, where required, gas-freed with the method recorded.
• Adjacent spaces and their contents considered as a source of leakage into the space.

2. Permit to work

• Permit issued by the authorised person, valid for a defined period, and displayed at the entrance.
• Names of every person entering listed, with entry and exit times logged by the attendant.
• Scope of work stated; hot work assessed and permitted separately if applicable.
• Permit conditions understood by all entrants at a toolbox talk held at the space.
• Bridge and engine control room informed that entry is taking place.

3. Atmosphere testing

• Meter calibrated, bump-tested and within its service interval before use.
• Oxygen 20.9% by volume confirmed.
• Flammable vapour not more than 1% LFL.
• Toxic gases (H₂S, CO, benzene as relevant to the cargo) below exposure limits.
• Readings taken at top, middle and bottom of the space, and in pockets and behind structure.
• Results recorded on the permit with time, instrument serial number and tester's name.
• Continuous or periodic monitoring arranged for the duration of the entry.

4. Ventilation and access

• Mechanical ventilation running before and throughout the entry; not stopped during breaks.
• Ventilation intake positioned in clean air, away from exhausts and vents.
• Access clear, adequately lit with approved lighting, ladders and gratings sound.
• Entrance kept clear of obstructions and equipment.

5. Equipment and rescue readiness

• Attendant stationed at the entrance for the whole entry, with no other duty.
• Two-way communication tested between entrants and the attendant, and with the bridge.
• Rescue harness, lifeline and lifting arrangement rigged and ready at the entrance.
• Two sets of breathing apparatus with full cylinders standing by, checked before entry.
• Resuscitation equipment, stretcher and first-aid kit at the site.
• Rescue team briefed on the plan — including who does not enter.
• Personal gas detectors carried by every entrant, switched on and alarming correctly.

6. During and after the entry

• Entrants withdraw immediately on any alarm, symptom or loss of communication.
• Attendant logs each entry and exit; headcount confirmed at every break.
• Permit cancelled and the space secured when work stops or conditions change.
• Space closed, isolations restored and re-entry prevented once complete.
• Entry, testing records and any lessons filed as evidence in the safety management system.
• Enclosed space entry and rescue drill held within the last two months and recorded.