Confined space safety legislation
Confined Spaces Regulations 1997
These regulations provide guidance on how to carry out work in confined spaces safely. They also provide information on the likely hazards and suitable precautions. The regulations and associated guidance are available from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 cover nearly all parts of the workplace including outdoor spaces.
The aim is to ensure that workplaces meet the health, safety and welfare needs of all workers and cover many parts of the workplace, including doors, passageways and stairs.
They cover the need for suitable lighting, ventilation, heat, cleanliness, rest areas and places to eat food.
There are exceptions and separate regulations regarding work:
- in or on a ship
- work at a mine below ground
- construction work on construction sites
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (external site) state you must assess the risks to employees. You need to make arrangements for their health and safety by effective:
- planning
- organising
- control
- monitoring
- review
Personal Protective and Work Equipment 1992
The Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992 (external site) require you to consider the impacts of personal protection on work activities. You need to ensure suitable equipment is provided and used.
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (external site) also require you to consider the impact on work in confined spaces.
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
The Health and Safety at Work etc Act (external site) places the general duty on you to ensure the health, safety at work of all your employees.
To achieve this, you need to provide adequate:
- training
- instruction
- information
- supervision
It also places duties on employees to take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others. They must co-operate with their employer to help them meet their legal obligations.