What Is Entry Permit
An entry permit is a written authorization document that certifies a permit-required confined space is safe for entry. It documents specific hazards present, the control measures in place, who is authorized to enter, and required safety equipment. OSHA requires this document before anyone enters a space classified as permit-required under 29 CFR 1910.146.
Regulatory Requirements
OSHA mandates that entry permits include the following information:
- Space location and purpose of entry
- Date and authorization time (typically valid for no more than 7 days unless continuous)
- List of hazards identified through atmospheric testing, inspection, or historical data
- Measures taken to eliminate or control each hazard
- Names and roles of the entry supervisor, attendant, and authorized entrants
- Emergency rescue procedures and contact information
- Results of atmospheric testing with timestamp, equipment used, and tester identification
- Signature of the entry supervisor certifying all conditions are met
Failure to use entry permits can result in OSHA penalties up to $10,430 per violation (2024 rates) for serious violations involving confined spaces.
Practical Application
For workplace safety managers, entry permits serve as a control mechanism before any work begins. When conducting maintenance inside a tank, entering a trench deeper than 5 feet, or working inside a vault, you complete the permit before the first worker steps inside. The attendant must maintain the permit on-site and monitor conditions throughout the work. If atmospheric conditions change, the supervisor cancels the permit and work stops immediately.
In residential settings, entry permits become relevant during home renovation projects involving enclosed spaces. If you're having a contractor work inside a basement sump pit, septic tank, or sealed crawlspace, a qualified professional should complete documentation identifying hazards like hydrogen sulfide gas, oxygen depletion, or accumulated debris.
Key Elements to Document
- Atmospheric testing: Oxygen levels (19.5-23.5%), combustible gases (below 10% lower explosive limit), and toxic substances must be measured with calibrated equipment
- Isolation procedures: Document how the space was isolated from energy sources, including lockout/tagout verification
- Rescue capability: Confirm rescue equipment and trained rescuers are available before entry begins
- Communication method: Specify how the entrant and attendant will communicate during the work
- Entry duration limits: Industrial permits typically set time limits based on atmospheric conditions and work intensity
Common Questions
Can one entry permit cover multiple days of work in the same space? Yes, but only if conditions remain unchanged and the permit is reissued daily with fresh atmospheric testing. Continuous operations may allow permits valid up to 30 days if conditions are monitored continuously and documented.
Who is responsible for creating the entry permit? The employer is responsible for establishing the permit system. The entry supervisor (someone trained in confined space procedures and hazard recognition) typically completes the permit, though larger facilities may have dedicated safety personnel.
What happens if atmospheric conditions are outside acceptable ranges? Entry cannot proceed. The space must be ventilated, re-tested, and the permit reissued. If conditions cannot be corrected, work is postponed or alternative methods are used.
Related Concepts
Permit-Required Confined Space defines which spaces legally require permits. Attendant describes the person responsible for monitoring conditions and communication during entry operations.