Victoria: a confined-space permit is not a substitute for eliminating entry

WorkSafe Victoria’s Confined spaces compliance code was published on 19 December 2019 and remains available on its official resource page. It operates within Victoria’s OHS framework.

Practical points

First establish whether a space meets the regulatory definition. A small or locked room is not automatically a confined space under this code.

Consider completing work without entering. Where entry is necessary, the code addresses risk assessment, isolation, safe atmosphere, entry permits, communication and standby arrangements. Emergency, rescue and first aid procedures need planning before entry. Its permit example records controls, authorised entrants and exit confirmation; a signed form alone does not make the work safe.

A corrections example

For hypothetical maintenance of a correctional facility’s tank or service pit, ask the competent contractor how entry will be avoided or controlled and how a rescue would be managed. Officers should not improvise an entry or rescue because the person inside needs help. This is a planning illustration, not an entry procedure.

Status and source

Following the code provides deemed compliance only for duties it covers. Other lawful methods are possible; the code does not replace the legislation. General education, not individual legal advice.

Read the official WorkSafe resource page and complete official PDF.