Confined Space Entry Permit-to-Work Checklist (Marine)

This marine confined space entry permit-to-work checklist ensures compliance with IMO MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.15 (Revised Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces aboard Ships), SOLAS Chapter XI-1/7 (Means of Access to Cargo Holds), and company Permit to Work procedures. Confined space deaths on ships are among the most preventable maritime fatalities — many occur when rescuers enter to save others.

  • Industry: Maritime
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes
  • Role: Chief Officer / Ship Safety Officer
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: IMO MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.15 Enclosed Space Entry Recommendations, SOLAS Chapter XI-1/7 Cargo Hold Access, OSHA 29 CFR 1915 Shipyard Confined Spaces, ILO Convention 152 Occupational Safety Dockwork, Company Permit to Work Procedures

Permit to Work Authorization

Permit issue and authority.

  • Permit to Work for confined space entry issued and authorized?
  • Master or responsible officer has signed the permit?
  • Permit expiry time clearly stated?
  • Rescue plan prepared and rescue equipment positioned outside?
  • Dedicated standby person assigned who will not enter space?

Atmospheric Testing

Mandatory gas testing before entry.

  • Oxygen content measured: between 19.5% and 23.5%?
  • Flammable gas below 10% LEL (Lower Explosive Limit)?
  • Toxic gases (H2S, CO) below short-term exposure limits?
  • Gas detection meter calibrated and within service date?
  • Continuous gas monitoring planned throughout entry?

PPE and Rescue Equipment

Personal protective and rescue equipment.

  • Safety harness and lifeline worn by each entrant?
  • SCBA set available outside space for rescue?
  • Rescue tripod or equivalent rescue device positioned at entry?
  • All required PPE worn by entrant for the specific task?
  • Communication method confirmed between entrant and standby?

Isolations and Ventilation

Energy isolation and ventilation requirements.

  • All pipework, machinery, and steam lines isolated and locked out?
  • Forced mechanical ventilation running minimum 10 minutes before entry?
  • Ventilation maintained continuously throughout entry?
  • Fixed CO2 suppression system for this space isolated and tagged?
  • No oxygen enrichment present in space?

Entry and Work Conduct

Safe entry procedure.

  • Pre-entry toolbox talk completed with all personnel?
  • All tools intrinsically safe / ATEX-rated for atmosphere?
  • No ignition sources introduced into potentially flammable atmosphere?
  • Retrieval line attached to harness before entry?
  • Entry time and entrant names recorded on permit?

Permit Closure and Records

Post-entry documentation.

  • Space confirmed clear of all personnel before closing entry?
  • Permit formally closed with exit time recorded?
  • All gas test results retained with permit copy?
  • Any incidents or near-misses during entry reported to SMS?
  • Confined Space Entry Notes

Related Maritime Checklists

Related Vessel Safety Checklists

Why Use This Confined Space Entry Permit-to-Work Checklist (Marine)?

This confined space entry permit-to-work checklist (marine) helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for chief officer / ship safety officer professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with IMO MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.15 Enclosed Space Entry Recommendations, SOLAS Chapter XI-1/7 Cargo Hold Access, OSHA 29 CFR 1915 Shipyard Confined Spaces, ILO Convention 152 Occupational Safety Dockwork, Company Permit to Work Procedures. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Confined Space Entry Permit-to-Work Checklist (Marine) cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Permit to Work Authorization, Atmospheric Testing, PPE and Rescue Equipment, Isolations and Ventilation, Entry and Work Conduct, Permit Closure and Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 30-60 minutes.

Who should use this Confined Space Entry Permit-to-Work Checklist (Marine)?

This checklist is designed for Chief Officer / Ship Safety Officer professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

Browse More Checklists