Confined Spaces Monitoring Requirements

Entry employers must evaluate permit spaces:

Before changes to natural ventilation are made and before entry is authorized
If isolation is demonstrated to be infeasible (e.g., the space is too large) - 1926.1204 (e)(1)
- Pre-entry testing is required, to the extent feasible
- Continuous monitoring of working areas is required (periodic monitoring is allowed if continuous monitors are not commercially available)
- Provide an early warning system for non-engulfment hazards that allows sufficient time for safe exit

Continuously monitor the space (or use period monitoring of sufficient frequency to assume safety throughout entry) - 1926.1204 (e)(2)
Test for hazards in this order: oxygen, combustible gases and vapors, then toxic gases and vapors - 1926.1204 (e)(3)
Provide entrants and their representatives an opportunity to observe monitoring - 1926.1204 (e)(4)
Reevaluate the space at the request of any entrant or their representative (in their presence) - 1926.1204 (e)(5)
Immediately provide entrant and their representatives with any test results - 1926.1204(e)(6)