Important: This SWMS template is provided as a starting point only. It must be reviewed and customised to reflect the specific conditions, hazards, and controls for your workplace and task. The PCBU remains responsible for ensuring the SWMS is suitable for the specific work. This template does not constitute legal advice. Refer to your state or territory WHS regulator for compliance requirements.

Confined Spaces

Underground Confined Space Entry — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for entry into underground confined spaces including pits, manholes, service chambers, underground tanks and below-ground vaults. Applicable where space has restricted entry/egress and may have a hazardous atmosphere.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Hard HatSafety Boots (Steel Capped)Safety Harness and Tripod Rescue SystemGas Monitor (4-gas minimum: O₂, CO, H₂S, LEL)High Visibility VestSafety GlassesGloves

High Risk Construction Work Types

•Work in a confined space
•In or near a shaft or trench with a depth greater than 1.5 metres, or a tunnel

Risk Assessment

1.Confined space identification and permit preparation

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Entry into confined space without permit	Catastrophic	Confined space entry permit completed before entry. Permit to include atmosphere testing results, hazard identification, emergency plan and attendant assignment. Permit signed by supervisor. All entrants sign permit.	Low	Site Supervisor
Hazardous atmosphere not identified before entry	Catastrophic	Atmosphere testing with calibrated 4-gas monitor before and during entry: O₂ 19.5–23.5%, CO <25 ppm, H₂S <10 ppm, LEL <10%. Results recorded on permit. Continuous monitoring by entrant during work.	Low	Competent Person / Entrant

2.Isolation of energy sources and services

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Inrush of water, gas or liquids into confined space	Catastrophic	Isolate all inlets and outlets. LOTO applied to all isolation points. Blanked off where required. Drain and purge space before entry. Confirm isolation before permitting entry.	Low	Site Supervisor / Licensed Electrician

3.Ventilation and atmospheric control

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Oxygen deficiency or accumulation of toxic/flammable gases	Catastrophic	Forced ventilation using clean air supply before and during entry. Ventilation to achieve minimum 10 air changes per hour. Exhaust pointed away from work area. Do not use oxygen to purge — fresh air only.	Moderate	Site Supervisor / Attendant

4.Entry and work in confined space

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Worker incapacitated and unable to self-rescue	Catastrophic	Trained attendant stationed at entry point for duration of work. Entrant wears full-body harness attached to retrieval line on tripod. Communication maintained with entrant at all times. Attendant has rescue equipment ready. No attendant to enter — summon emergency services if entrant incapacitated.	Moderate	Attendant / Entrant
Gas alarm during work in confined space	Catastrophic	Gas alarm = immediate evacuation without delay. Entrant exits via retrieval line if necessary. Attendant not to enter. Emergency services contacted. Space re-tested before re-entry.	Low	Entrant / Attendant

Relevant Codes of Practice

Worker Acknowledgement

By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to comply with this Safe Work Method Statement.

Name: ___________________Date: ___________________