During confined space entry, who is responsible for monitoring the safety of the entrants?

Monitoring the safety of entrants in a confined space is primarily the responsibility of the attendants. Attendants play a critical role in ensuring that the entrants are safe while they perform their work within the confined area. Their responsibilities include maintaining constant communication with the entrants, monitoring the environment for hazardous conditions, and being prepared to initiate rescue procedures if necessary.

Attendants are positioned outside the confined space and are tasked with observing the environment and making sure that the atmosphere remains safe for the entrants. They must be aware of the potential hazards specific to confined spaces, such as toxic gases, low oxygen levels, or the risk of engulfment.

While supervisors and rescue teams have important roles in confined space operations, the immediate responsibility for the safety of the entrants during actual work inside the space falls to the attendants, as they are there to monitor conditions and ensure immediate assistance is provided if needed. Entrants, while aware of their surroundings, are focused on their tasks and may not be in a position to monitor safety conditions outside the confined space.