What should be done before entry into a confined space?

Before entering a confined space, conducting atmospheric monitoring is essential to ensure the safety of individuals entering that space. This process involves checking the air quality to detect any hazardous gases, such as toxic vapors or low oxygen levels, which can pose serious risks to health and safety. Atmospheric monitoring helps identify potential dangers and enables the implementation of appropriate safety measures, such as ventilation or the use of personal protective equipment, if necessary.

While notifying local authorities, completing paperwork, and wearing safety gear are also important aspects of confined space procedures, they do not directly address the immediate risk of hazardous atmospheres. Ensuring that the air quality is safe is the foremost priority before taking any further steps.