Employees must complete the following steps to prepare confined spaces for entry:

• Isolate the confined space entry site from the surrounding area using guards and barriers (including signs, rope, or tape).
• Drain, clean, ventilate, and/or purge the confined space, as necessary, to prevent flammable, toxic, and corrosive hazards.
• Isolate all electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic energy sources as outlined in the Lockout/Tagout section of this manual.
• Ensure that all workers are wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and that all persons wearing respirators have been properly trained in their usage.
• Provide continuous ventilation, as necessary.
• Ensure that non-sparking tools and explosion proof equipment are used when working in a potentially combustible atmosphere.
• Position gas cylinders for cutting or burning outside the confined space.
• Ensure that a standby SCBA is available.
• Obtain personal protective equipment, including lifelines, winches, and harnesses, as required. Ensure that the equipment has been inspected as scheduled.
• Take precautions to ensure against engulfment hazards, such as water, dirt, grain, etc.