InstituteConfined SpacesConfined Space HazardsSafety & HealthConfined SpacesGeneral Industry SafetyConfined Space Entry Team DutiesPermit-Required Confined SpacesConfined Space Entry PermitUSAEnglishAnalysisFocus AreaIn Depth (Level 3)
Entry supervisor duties (Construction)
['Confined Spaces']
- The entry supervisor of a permit space is responsible for the successful implementation of the entry permit.
- The duties of an entry supervisor include verifying that required tests have been conducted.
Supervisors of entry to permit-required confined spaces are required to know enough about each space to perform their duties successfully. Entry supervisors for permit spaces where construction work occurs must also meet the characteristics of a “qualified person” as defined in 29 CFR 1926.1202. Supervisor duties include:
- Knowing the hazards that may be faced during entry and knowing the mode, signs, symptoms, and consequences of exposure to these hazards;
- Verifying that all tests specified by the entry permit have been conducted and that all procedures and equipment are in place before endorsing the permit and allowing entry to begin;
- Terminating the entry and canceling the entry permit when work in the space has been completed or when a prohibited condition arises;
- Suspending rather than canceling the entry permit when conditions specified in 1926.1205(e)(2) apply;
- Verifying that rescue services are available and that the means to summon them are operable; and
- Removing unauthorized individuals who enter or who attempt to enter the permit space during entry operations.
Supervisors must also determine that the acceptable conditions specified in the permit are still present whenever shifts and entry supervisors change.