A confined space in Ontario is defined under Ontario Regulation 632/05 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). It refers to a fully or partially enclosed space that is not designed for continuous human occupancy and where atmospheric hazards may arise due to its construction, location, contents, or the work being performed within it.

Yes. Every confined space entry in Ontario requires an entry permit. The permit must identify the location of the confined space, describe the work to be performed, list the hazards and control measures, specify the duration of entry, name the entry workers and attendants, include atmospheric testing results, and outline the entry and rescue equipment to be used.

Before entering a confined space, employers must establish a written confined space program that:

1. Identifies all confined spaces to which the program applies.
2. Includes methods to:
   • Assess hazards associated with each confined space.
   • Develop one or more safe entry plans.
   • Train workers who will interact with the space.
3. Implements an entry permit system that specifies the measures and procedures to be followed during work in the confined space.
4. Is developed in consultation with:
   • The Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) or Health and Safety Representative.
   • If the work is part of a construction project: The employer must provide a copy of the program to the constructor, who shall then provide a copy to the project’s JHSC or Health and Safety Representative.

In Ontario, confined space entry requires more than just the workers entering the space. An attendant must remain stationed outside the confined space at all times to monitor conditions and maintain communication with entrants. Additionally, a trained rescue team must be immediately available on-site and prepared to respond without delay. The number of attendants and rescue personnel must be sufficient to address the hazards identified for that specific confined space and the scope of work being performed. These staffing requirements, including roles and responsibilities, must be documented in the written confined space entry plan.

The attendant must remain outside and near the confined space at all times, maintain communication with entrants, monitor the safety of the workers within the space, and initiate emergency rescue procedures if needed.

A confined space rescue plan in Ontario must be ready for immediate implementation and include an adequate number of trained personnel who are on-site and prepared to respond. The plan should identify potential hazards, outline detailed rescue procedures, designate trained rescue personnel, and specify the equipment required for safe rescue operations. It must also establish communication methods and incorporate first aid and medical response protocols. Calling 911 alone does not meet Ontario’s confined space rescue requirements.

Common confined space hazards include atmospheric dangers such as toxic gases, oxygen deficiency or enrichment, and flammable or explosive gases, vapours, fumes, dust, or mists. Other hazards may involve engulfment, entrapment, mechanical risks, and extreme temperatures. Effective control measures typically include ventilation or purging, isolation of energy sources, atmospheric testing, use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and adherence to proper entry and egress procedures.