Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00405:body:0:p15
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00405
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 37749–40507

is a remaining risk, it must be minimised so far as is reasonably practicable by implementing administrative controls, and if a risk still remains, then suitable personal protective equipment must be provided and used. These two types of control measures, when used on their own, tend to be least effective in minimising risks because they rely on human behaviour and supervision.
Some risk control measures are mandatory for confined spaces.

Regulation 66: In managing risks associated with a confined space, all relevant matters must be considered, including:
    * whether the work can be carried out without the need to enter the confined space
    * the nature of a confined space
    * if the hazard is associated with any airborne contaminant or unsafe level of oxygen
    * the work to be carried out in the confined space, the range of methods by which the work can be carried out, and the proposed method
    * the type of emergency procedures required.

    5.2         Eliminate the need to enter a confined space
Risks associated with work in a confined space must be eliminated so far as is reasonably practicable, and therefore the first question is: can the work be carried out without entering the confined space?
Work could be carried out from outside the confined space by:
    * installing fixed or temporary cleaning devices for example spray balls using high-pressure hoses inserted through an access hatch to clean the inside of a tank
    * using remote cameras or a mirror attached to a probe for internal inspection of vessels
    * using remotely operated rotating flail devices, vibrators or air purgers to clear blockages
      in silos
    * using a hook, long-handled clasp or magnet on a string to retrieve an object dropped into
      a confined space.

    5.3         Minimise the risks
If entering a confined space cannot be avoided, then a safe system for working inside the space must be implemented. The identified hazards will help determine what controls are needed to minimise any risk associated with work in the confined space. Under the WHS Regulations, the following matters must be considered:

The nature of the space
The nature of a confined space may contribute to the risks associated with it, for example:
    * whether the number, size and location of entrances and exits are adequate to enable the rapid exit and rescue of workers from the space
    * the temperature of the space so that it will not cause heat stress
    * adequate lighting, if there is poor visibility.

The concentration of oxygen or airborne contaminants
The level of oxygen and airborne contaminants is a significant contributor to the risk of working in a confined space, therefore:
    * the level of oxygen should be maintained