Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 8:11 AM AWST

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Supervise work in confined spaces

Supervise work in confined spaces

Unit of competency
National Code
RIIWHS401E
State Code
OCD20
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
23/09/2020
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/03/2021
Field of Education
061301 - Occupational Health And Safety
Original Release Date
05/03/2021
Nominal Hours
30
Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to supervise work in confined spaces in the resources and infrastructure industries.It applies to those working in supervisory roles. They are generally responsible for the output of others, contribute to the development of technical solutions to non-routine problems and apply management plans to the workplace.Licensing, legislative and certification requirements that apply to this unit can vary between states, territories and industry sectors. Users must check requirements with relevant body before applying the unit.Note: The terms Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and Work Health and Safety (WHS) are equivalent and generally either can be used in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the National Model WHS Legislation has not been implemented RTOs are advised to contextualise the unit of competency by referring to the existing State/Territory OHS legislative requirements.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for work in the confined space
  • 1.1 Obtain, interpret and confirm work requirements
  • 1.2 Access, interpret and apply documentation required to supervise in confined spaces
  • 1.3 Access and interpret the site confined spaces safety management program
  • 1.4 Determine tasks and develop a written Safe Operating Procedures for work to be carried out
  • 1.5 Identify and implement communications system and equipment according to workplace procedures
  • 1.6 Select and wear personal protective equipment
  • 1.7 Identify and obtain resources for implementation of the confined spaces safety management program
  • 1.8 Prepare all required permits
2. Provide information about working in confined spaces
  • 2.1 Establish consultation mechanisms with all levels of the workforce
  • 2.2 Consult with employees and employee representatives on implementation of the confined spaces safety management program
  • 2.3 Identify and meet the communication needs of special groups
  • 2.4 Provide information, instruction, training and supervision to employees
3. Ensure safety and health of others entering and working in a confined space
  • 3.1 Identify relevant personnel or expertise for risk assessment, and initiate hazard identification and risk assessment process
  • 3.2 Identify and prepare a written record of hazards
  • 3.3 Assess risks and determine probability and likelihood
  • 3.4 Identify and implement effective control measures according to the Hierarchy of Controls
  • 3.5 Develop a confined space checklist for the Confined Space Entry Permit
  • 3.6 Ensure atmospheric monitoring instruments available, installed, calibrated and used correctly according to workplace procedures
  • 3.7 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
  • 4.1 Allocate resources to confined space personnel for effective, safe performance of designated work
  • 4.2 Ensure all personnel read, understand and sign all required permits
  • 4.3 Clearly and concisely communicate the work activities to personnel, clarify any questions, and ensure all personnel are clear on their work activities and responsibilities
  • 4.4 Brief and post confined space observers and sentries
  • 4.5 Check that required personal protective equipment is suitable and worn correctly according to manufacturer specifications
  • 4.6 Ensure communications systems are installed, maintained and in working order
  • 4.7 Monitor and evaluate the continued effectiveness of risk assessment processes and controls
  • 4.8 Test and maintain controls according to workplace procedures
  • 4.9 Ensure work activities complies to procedures
5. Implement confined space emergency and rescue systems
  • 5.1 Select emergency rescue equipment appropriate for the confined space activities
  • 5.2 Identify and liaise with external Emergency Services agencies
  • 5.3 Implement site approved emergency procedures
  • 5.4 Keep and maintain emergency procedure training records
6. Withdraw from confined space and facilitate return to service
  • 6.1 Confirm that work is completed to site requirements and all work-related materials and equipment removed
  • 6.2 Confirm all permits are cleared and systems isolation devices removed according to workplace procedures
  • 6.3 Confirm all personnel sign off the Confined Space Entry Permit
  • 6.4 Advise appropriate personnel that the confined space is clear for return to service
  • 6.5 Review the confined space safety management program
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
WH757 RIIWHS401D Supervise work in confined spaces Unit of competency