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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare for work in the confined space
   • Obtain, interpret and confirm work requirements
   • Access, interpret and apply documentation required to supervise in confined spaces
   • Access and interpret the site confined spaces safety management program
   • Determine tasks and develop a written Safe Operating Procedures for work to be carried out
   • Identify and implement communications system and equipment according to workplace procedures
   • Select and wear personal protective equipment
   • Identify and obtain resources for implementation of the confined spaces safety management program
   • Prepare all required permits
2. Provide information about working in confined spaces
   • Establish consultation mechanisms with all levels of the workforce
   • Consult with employees and employee representatives on implementation of the confined spaces safety management program
   • Identify and meet the communication needs of special groups
   • Provide information, instruction, training and supervision to employees
3. Ensure safety and health of others entering and working in a confined space
   • Identify relevant personnel or expertise for risk assessment, and initiate hazard identification and risk assessment process
   • Identify and prepare a written record of hazards
   • Assess risks and determine probability and likelihood
   • Identify and implement effective control measures according to the Hierarchy of Controls
   • Develop a confined space checklist for the Confined Space Entry Permit
   • Ensure atmospheric monitoring instruments available, installed, calibrated and used correctly according to workplace procedures
   • Keep written records of hazard and risk assessment processes and outcomes, and the controls put in place according to workplace procedures
4. Supervise entry and work in a confined space
   • Allocate resources to confined space personnel for effective, safe performance of designated work
   • Ensure all personnel read, understand and sign all required permits
   • Clearly and concisely communicate the work activities to personnel, clarify any questions, and ensure all personnel are clear on their work activities and responsibilities
   • Brief and post confined space observers and sentries
   • Check that required personal protective equipment is suitable and worn correctly according to manufacturer specifications
   • Ensure communications systems are installed, maintained and in working order
   • Monitor and evaluate the continued effectiveness of risk assessment processes and controls
   • Test and maintain controls according to workplace procedures
   • Ensure work activities complies to procedures
5. Implement confined space emergency and rescue systems
   • Select emergency rescue equipment appropriate for the confined space activities
   • Identify and liaise with external Emergency Services agencies
   • Implement site approved emergency procedures
   • Keep and maintain emergency procedure training records
6. Withdraw from confined space and facilitate return to service
   • Confirm that work is completed to site requirements and all work-related materials and equipment removed
   • Confirm all permits are cleared and systems isolation devices removed according to workplace procedures
   • Confirm all personnel sign off the Confined Space Entry Permit
   • Advise appropriate personnel that the confined space is clear for return to service
   • Review the confined space safety management program

Performance Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate the ability to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including evidence of the ability to:

supervise work in confined spaces on at least two occasions, including:

performing task analysis to carry out risk assessment, and prepare for emergency procedures

preparing a written safe operating procedure and checklist for confined space work activities

preparing required permits prior to work activity

determining requirements and applying procedures for working in confined spaces

sourcing and allocating required resources for confined space activities

providing clear instructions and coordinating of activities throughout working in confined space activity

establishing and applying effective communication techniques to others throughout the work activity

applying atmospheric contaminants measurement procedures

supervising work activities and correcting work activity when required

training others to carry out first response, first aid and fire- fighting techniques

maintaining written training records

maintaining written record of hazards, risk assessments, outcomes and controls used.

During the above, the candidate must:

locate and apply relevant legislation, documentation, policies and procedures and confirm that the work activity is compliant

implement the requirements, procedures and techniques for supervising work in confined spaces

work effectively with others to supervise work in confined spaces in a way that meets all required outcomes

communicate clearly and concisely with others to receive and clarify work instructions and to determine coordination requirements prior to commencing and during work activities.

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must be able to demonstrate knowledge to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including knowledge of:

key legislation required to supervise work in confined spaces

key policies, procedures and documentation required to supervise work in confined spaces

principles and techniques for:

performing the process of hazard identification, risk assessment and control

applying workplace strategies for implementing confined space legislation

determining the effects of atmospheric contaminants entering the respiratory system

knowledge of the effects on the human body, including:

oxygen deficiency

toxic contaminants

combustible contaminants

physical hazards, including engulfment and entrapment

physiological conditions, including asthma, epilepsy, phobias and physical fitness

risks to workers handling hazardous substances in confined spaces

risks from electric shock, explosion or fire, temperature changes, noise, and trips, slips and falls

establishing control measures

using methods of systems isolation

preparing written Safe Operating Procedures

processes for examination, testing and maintenance of control measures

implementation of emergency rescue procedures

selection, use, training and maintenance of safety and rescue equipment

record keeping requirements

techniques for using communication and observer systems

principles and techniques for identifying relevant hazards and emergencies

techniques for coordinating and communicating job activities with others.

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