Confined Spaces And Observe Permit Work (Stand-By Person)

This course is designed for new and experienced personnel required to work in confined spaces and perform the stand-by person/ safety observer role in the resources and infrastructure industries at an operational level. 

Many roles require confined space training, including safety, injury prevention and maintenance personnel, engineers, risk managers, mine managers, cable installers and transport personnel.

The safety observer role is often referred to as a fire watcher, hole watcher or stand-by person. The primary role of a safety observer is to observe and interpret work permits, develop and be prepared to initiate a rescue/incident response plan, maintain communication with all the workers on the site, and ensure the work is being conducted in accordance with the permit conditions and workplace procedures. 

Safety observers can stop permit work, but do not have the authority to restart it. The scenarios specifically covered in this course include confined space and hot work. Please note, where the person is a safety observer for a confined space permit they should also be competent in confined space entry.

Participants will learn to distinguish what constitutes a confined space; key terminology, and understand the regulations and legislative requirements governing entering and working in and around confined spaces. 

Participants will identify hazards and emergencies, implement appropriate control measures, conduct risk assessments, apply for confined space entry permits, and develop a rescue/ incident response plan.

Students will demonstrate how to enter, exit and work safely in a confined space according to an issued permit for two scenarios. Participants will also inspect and select appropriate personal protective gear; operate various confined space safety equipment including atmospheric testing/monitoring devices; and conduct routine servicing of all equipment and gear.