HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURE 503 – Confined Space ......confined space to perform an assigned task....

Document Number: 503Revised By: R. MeyersManager Approval: MOC HSE-18-15Revisions noted in italics

Current Rev: 12/12/2018Review Cycle: 3 yearsRevision No. 8 of 33

HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURE 503 – Confined Space Entry

Printed controlled copy expires 24 hours after 7:12 AM on 12/13/2018

1.0 Purpose

1.1 The purpose of this procedure is to establish minimum requirements forthe safety and health of employees and contractors who work in, and inconnection with, confined spaces.

2.0 Scope

2.1 The procedure provides minimum safety requirements to be followed whileentering, exiting, and working in confined spaces at ambient atmosphericpressure in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.146 and 29 CFR 1926 SubpartAA.

3.0 Definitions

3.1 Acceptable entry conditions: The conditions that must exist in a workarea to allow personnel to enter the confined space without causing anyadverse health effects or increased risk to do so.

3.2 Active Direct Reading Instruments: Atmospheric monitoring equipmentthat has a pump that draws air into the instrument to its sensors tomeasure the atmosphere.

3.3 Attendant: Person assigned to monitor a confined space process oroperation and provide support or react as required for the safety of theentrants.

3.4 Available Rescue: Rescue team onsite and available to rescue in a timelymanner.

3.5 Blinding: Inserting a solid barrier across the open end of a pipe, line orduct or in between two flanges, leading into or out of the confined space,and securing the barrier in such a way to prevent leakage of material intothe confined space.

3.6 Confined Space: Enclosed area that include all three of the followingcharacteristics:

3.6.1 Large enough and configured to allow a person to bodily enter





3.6.2 Its primary function is other than human occupancy

3.6.3 Has restricted entry and exit. (Restricted entry and exit is a physicalconfiguration, which requires the use of the hands for support orcontortion of the body to enter into or exit from a confined space.)

3.7 Construction: building a new structure or upgrading an old one.

3.8 Continuous Monitoring: The uninterrupted use of a direct readinginstrument to monitor a confined space.

3.9 Control of Hazardous Energy: the placement of a lock/tag on an energyisolating device in accordance with established procedures.

3.10 ERT: Emergency Response Team.

3.11 Direct Reading Instrument: a real-time air monitoring device used toverify suitable atmospheric conditions for confined space entry. Thesecan either be active or passive. An active meter has an internal pump fordrawing in an atmospheric sample. A passive meter allows ambient air topass over a sensor that detects the sample.

3.12 Emergency: Any occurrence inside or outside of the confined space thatcould endanger the entry team.

3.13 Engulfment: the surrounding and effective capture of a person by a liquidor flow-able solid substance.

3.14 Entrant: a person authorized by the Entry Supervisor who enters aconfined space to perform an assigned task.

3.15 Entry: ingress by persons into a confined space, which occurs uponbreaking the plane of the confined space portal with any part of the body.Entry includes all periods of time in which the confined space is occupied.

3.16 Entry Team: This team consists of Entry Supervisor, Entrants,Attendant(s) and Emergency Response Team.





3.17 Entry Portal: point of access to enter a confined space.

3.18 Entry Supervisor: due to the extensive knowledge, skills, andexperience, this individual is given the authority and responsibility to directand implement all aspects of the confined space entry operation.

3.19 Hazard: a condition or potential condition or inherent characteristic of anactivity, or circumstance, which can produce injury, illness, death orproperty damage.

3.20 Hazardous Atmosphere: an atmosphere that exists or has the potentialto exist and causes serious harm or death to occupants by reason of:oxygen deficiency or enrichment; flammability or explosivity by gas, vapordust; or toxicity.

3.21 Horizontal Rescue: methodology to move the entrant to safety while theentrant’s weight is supported by the surface of the space’s floor or otherhorizontal level within the space.

3.22 Hot Work: work that produces arcs, sparks, flames, heat or other sourcesof ignition.

3.23 Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH): Any condition thatposes an immediate or delayed threat to life or that would causeirreversible adverse health effects or that would interfere with anindividual's ability to escape unaided from a permit space.

3.24 Isolation: a process of physically interrupting, disconnecting or removingpipes, lines and energy sources such as electrical, pneumatic andgravitational forces from entering the confined space.

3.25 Inert Atmosphere: A nonreactive gas atmosphere, such as nitrogen,carbon dioxide, or helium; used to blanket reactive liquids in storage, topurge process lines and vessels of reactive gases and liquids, and tocover a reaction mix in a partially filled vessel.

3.26 Lifeline: A component consisting of a flexible line for connection to theworkers harness at one end to an anchorage or retrieval system locatedoutside of the space to assist in non-entry rescue.





3.27 Lower Explosive Limit: the lowest concentration (percentage) of a gasor a vapor in air capable of producing a flash of fire in presence of anignition source (arc, flame, heat).

3.28 OEL stands for Occupational Exposure Limits: These 8-hr Time WeightedAverage (TWA) limits represent the level of a chemical that Westlake orcontract employees are allowed to be exposed to without any type ofrespiratory protection. They are usually communicated in ppm’s.

3.29 Oxygen Deficient Atmosphere: an atmosphere containing less than19.5% oxygen by volume.

3.30 Oxygen Enriched Atmosphere: an atmosphere containing more than23.5% oxygen by volume.

3.31 Passive Direct Reading Instruments: Atmospheric monitoringequipment that does not have a pump that draws air into the instrument. Itsimply reacts to air that passes over its sensors.

3.32 Permit Required Confined Space (PRCS): all confined spaces atWestlake Geismar, shall require a Confined Space Entry Permit to enter.

3.33 Permit System: a written procedure for preparing and issuingauthorization (permits) for entry and for returning the permit requiredconfined space PRCS to service following termination of entry.

3.34 Periodic Monitoring: the use of a direct reading instrument to monitor aconfined space at fixed intervals (every hour).

3.35 Qualified Person: a person, who by reason of training, education andexperience is knowledgeable in the operation to be performed and iscompetent to judge the hazards involved and specify controls and/orprotective measures.

3.36 Rescue: assistance in exiting the confined space by providing assistanceto the entrant by the rescuer(s) to affect exit from the space.





3.37 Rescue Team: a team of qualified technical rescue responders with thetraining, expertise and equipment to readily provide emergency rescue.

3.38 Retrieval system: The equipment (including a retrieval line, chest or full-body harness, wristlets, if appropriate, and a lifting device or anchor) usedfor non-entry rescue of persons from permit spaces.

3.39 Self-Rescue: an unaided emergency exit out of a confined space. Thisaction may result from the entrant’s own decision or by a command fromoutside the space.

3.40 Standby Rescue: Rescue team stationed at the entry point ready torescue and performing no other duties.

3.41 Toxic Atmosphere: an atmosphere containing a concentration of asubstance above the published or otherwise known acceptable levels.

3.42 Upper Explosive Limit: highest concentration (percentage) of a gas or avapor in air capable of producing a flash of fire in presence of an ignitionsource (arc, flame, heat).

3.43 Vacated: No entrants in the confined space and no manway attendantconducting atmospheric monitoring.

3.44 Vertical Rescue: methodology to move the entrant to safety while all or aportion of the entrant’s weight is supported by life-safety rope or wire. Thismethodology would include diagonal rescue where a portion of theentrant’s weight is supported by a surface within the space.

3.45 Work Group: Personnel that are working under the same safe workpermit.

3.46 Work Zone: Work area or level where a group is performing a similartask.

4.0 Responsibilities

4.1 Health & Safety





4.1.1 Ensure procedure is in compliance with latest regulatoryrequirements.

4.1.2 Approve Class A and B entries.4.1.3 Approve variances associated with this procedure.

4.1.4 Audit the confined space program for compliance.

4.1.5 Maintain historical confined space permits per retentionrequirements in 29CFR 1910.146.

4.2 Unit Department Managers

4.2.1 Ensure compliance to this procedure.

4.3 Entry Supervisor:

4.3.1 Entry Supervisors must be trained in this procedure, qualified in thespecific area of the entry, be able to perform all duties in thissection, and designated by the Unit Manager and Superintendent.

4.3.2 Notify Superintendent or Unit Manager during business hours priorto all confined space entries.

4.3.3 For confined space entries outside business hours, notify the LeadOperator and Shift Supervisor prior to all confined space entries.

4.3.4 Know the hazards that may be faced during entry, includinginformation on the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequences ofthe exposure.

4.3.5 Verify by checking that the appropriate entries have been made onthe permit, that all tests specified by the permit have beenconducted and that all procedures and equipment specified by thepermit are in place before endorsing the permit and allowing entryto begin.





4.3.6 Terminate the entry and cancel the permit upon becoming aware ofa condition or hazards that create potential hazards to theauthorized entrants.

4.3.7 Verify that rescue team and equipment are available and that themeans for summoning them are operable. Ensures the pre-plan hasbeen completed.

4.3.8 Notify all control rooms of active confined space entries prior toentry.

4.3.9 Verify confined space isolation for the shift which the permit is beingwritten.

4.3.10 Develop and document ventilation plan on the Rescue Preplan(“Space Description” section for the confined space entry.

4.3.11 Communicate the status and requirements of the entry to otherEntry Supervisor(s) whenever the Entry Supervisor is changed.(See Transfer of Authority section 5.5.10)

4.3.12 Must have the understanding, knowledge and skills to test ormonitor the permit space to ensure conditions in the permit spaceare acceptable before entry is authorized to begin.

4.3.13 Conducts Pre-Entry Conference with Attendant and Entrants priorto entry.

4.3.13.1 Ensure the Entrants and Attendant(s) understand theirduties and the hazards associated with the confinedspace entry.

4.3.14 Ensures that “Confined Space” signs are posted at all entry pointswhen opened.

4.3.15 Tests or monitors the permit space as necessary to determine ifacceptable entry limits are being maintained and immediatelyrecords test results on the permit





4.3.16 Determines the number of attendants necessary when there aremultiple entry points

4.3.17 Conducts Post-Entry Conference with Attendants when theconfined space permit has expired

4.4 Authorized Entrant

4.4.1 Shall know the hazards that may be faced during entry, includinginformation on the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequencesof the exposure.

4.4.2 Shall properly use equipment as described in section 12.0Auxiliary.

4.4.3 Shall communicate with the attendant as necessary to enable theattendant to monitor entrant status and to enable the attendant toalert entrants of the need to evacuate the space.

4.4.4 Shall alert the attendant whenever:

4.4.4.1 The entrant recognizes any warning sign or symptomof exposure to a dangerous situation

4.4.4.2 The entrant detects prohibited conditions

4.4.5 Shall exit from the permit space as quickly as possible whenever:

4.4.5.1 An order to evacuate is given by the attendant or theEntry Supervisor

4.4.5.2 The entrant recognizes any warning sign or symptomof exposure to a dangerous situation

4.4.5.3 The entrant detects a prohibited condition

4.4.5.4 An evacuation alarm is activated





4.4.6 Shall self-recue when possible.

4.5 Attendant

4.5.1 The number of attendants needed shall be determined bythe Entry Supervisor who shall consider the manpowernecessary to carry out the duties.

4.5.2 The Attendant shall:

4.5.2.1 Know the hazards that may be faced during entry,including information on the mode, signs orsymptoms, and consequences of exposure

4.5.2.2 be aware of possible behavioral effects of hazardexposure in authorized entrants

4.5.3 Continuously maintains an accurate count of authorizedentrants in the permit space by documenting name, company,time in and out on the confined space entry permit.

4.5.4 Is stationed immediately outside the point of entry/exit of theconfined space to observe the PRCS and be able tocommunicate with the occupants throughout the entry.

4.5.5 Wears a “high” visibility vest or shirt while on duty as anattendant.

4.5.6 Before employing any portable gas detection used forcontinuous, periodic or personal atmospheric monitoring, theattendant will ensure the calibration and bump test arecurrent. (Calibration shall be monthly and bump test withintwenty-four (24) hours).

4.5.7 Records the continuous atmospheric monitoring results onthe “Atmospheric Monitoring” section of the Confined SpacePermit.





4.5.8 Monitors activities inside and outside the space to determineif it is safe for authorized entrants to remain in the space andnotifies the authorized entrants via air horn (four short blasts)to evacuate the permit space immediately under any of thefollowing conditions:

4.5.8.1 If the attendant detects a prohibited condition such asalarm going off on direct reading instrument, loss ofventilation or loss of power.

4.5.8.2 If the attendant detects the behavioral effects ofhazard exposure in an authorized entrant

4.5.8.3 If the attendant detects a situation outside the spacethat could endanger the authorized entrant

4.5.9 Summons rescue team as soon as the attendant determinesthat authorized entrants may need assistance to escapefrom permit space hazards.

4.5.10 Never enters the confined space under any circumstances.

4.5.11 Takes the following actions when unauthorized personsapproach or enter a permit space while entry is underway:

4.5.11.1 Warn the unauthorized persons that they must stayaway from the permit space

4.5.11.2 Advise the unauthorized persons that they must exitimmediately if they have entered the permit space

4.5.11.3 Inform the authorized persons and the EntrySupervisor if unauthorized persons have entered thepermit space

4.5.12 Performs no duties that might interfere with the attendant’sprimary duty to monitor and protect the authorized entrants.





4.5.13 Never abandon your post as Attendant while entrants areinside the confined space unless you are relieved by aqualified Attendant or the space has been vacated.

4.5.14 Notify Operations anytime your confined space is vacatedand unattended.

4.5.15 The Attendant Equipment List shall consist of but not limitedto:

4.5.15.1 Appropriate IH monitoring equipment4.5.15.2 Radio (On Operations Channel)4.5.15.3 High visibility vest or shirt4.5.15.4 Air horn4.5.15.5 Entry Permit4.5.15.6 Red barricade tape4.5.15.7 Specific PPE identified for Attendant by Entry Permit

5.0 Procedure

5.1 Identification

5.1.1 All confined spaces at the site shall be designated as PermitRequired Confined Spaces. This includes new construction.

5.1.2 When a Permit Required Confined Space is altered to the point ofomitting at least one of the criteria for a confined space, it is nolonger designated as a confined space Refer to Section 3.6“Definitions”.

NOTE: Even though the space is no longer a confined space, all hazardsmust be identified, evaluated, and mitigated.





5.2 Hazard Management

5.2.1 Hazard Identification

5.2.1.1 Hazards shall be identified for each confined space priorto entry

5.2.1.2 Hazard Types

5.2.1.2.1 Physical Characteristics (i.e. configuration)5.2.1.2.2 Existing or potential Atmospheric Hazards

5.2.1.2.2.1 Oxygen deficient or enrichedatmosphere

5.2.1.2.2.2 Flammable/Explosive atmosphere5.2.1.2.2.3 Toxic Atmosphere

5.2.1.2.3 Biological Hazards (i.e. bacteria growth)5.2.1.2.4 Mechanical Hazards (i.e. rotating equipment)5.2.1.2.5 Physical Hazards (i.e. hot equipment,

electrical)5.2.1.2.6 Chemical Hazards (i.e. VCM, EDC, Chlorine,

caustic and sulfuric acid)

5.2.2 Hazard Evaluation:

5.2.2.1 Hazards identified shall be evaluated by a qualified EntrySupervisor. Each hazard shall be examined with respectto:

5.2.2.1.1 Potential of hazard exposure5.2.2.1.2 Magnitude of the hazard5.2.2.1.3 Likelihood of hazard occurrence5.2.2.1.4 Consequences of the hazard occurrence5.2.2.1.5 Potential for changing conditions or activities

5.2.3 Controlling Hazards:





5.2.3.1 Hazards shall be eliminated or controlled to achieve an aslow as reasonably practicable level prior to conductingconfined space entries. The following hierarchy of controlshall be followed:

5.2.3.1.1 Eliminate the hazard5.2.3.1.2 Engineering Controls (substitution, isolation,

etc.)5.2.3.1.3 Administrative Controls (work practices,

procedures, personnel assignments, etc.)5.2.3.1.4 Personal protective equipment

5.3 Confined Space Classification

5.3.1 A confined space must be designated as A, B, or C based uponatmospheric testing prior to entry or known potential atmospherichazards. Appendix A – Confined Space Classification Table andAppendix B - Confined Space Toxicity/Atmosphere Summary shallbe used to help determine classification.

5.3.2 Confined Spaces are classified without the use of ventilation.

5.3.3 Classes “A” & “B” entries require approval from Health & SafetyDepartment.

5.3.4 Class A entries require standby rescue.

5.3.5 Westlake & contract employees are not allowed to enter Class Aconfined spaces. If a Class “A” Confined Space must be entered byWestlake or contract employees, a variance shall be required.

NOTE: ERT members are allowed to enter Class “A” confined spaces forrescue only if they determine the confined space safe for entry.

5.4 Permit Required Confined Spaces (PRCS) Permit System

5.4.1 All entry into confined spaces shall be permitted utilizing the site’sConfined Space Entry Permit. See Appendix D – Confined SpaceEntry Permit.





5.4.2 Before each entry, a Confined Space Entry Permit shall becompleted and signed by the Entry Supervisor at the entry portal.

5.4.3 The field copy (yellow) must be available at the entrance of theconfined space, along with the safe work permit and any additionalpermits if necessary.

5.4.4 Entry requirements identified on the permit shall be communicatedto entrants and attendant during the Pre-Entry Conference.

5.4.5 All subsequent entrants that enter the space after the Pre-EntryConference must review the contents of the Confined Space EntryPermit prior to entry.

5.4.6 The Confined Space Entry Permit is valid for 12 Hours Only.

5.4.7 All entrants may enter the confined space utilizing one ConfinedSpace Permit.

5.4.8 Each person or work group must present a Safe Work Permit to theattendant prior to entering or conducting work inside of the PRCS.

5.4.9 Signatories

5.4.9.1 Entry Supervisor signs in the Atmospheric Monitoringsection of the permit after the initial atmosphericmonitoring has been conducted and verifies acceptableatmospheric conditions for entry.

5.4.9.2 Attendant signs the permit after reviewing and acceptingresponsibilities for attending that entry. Upon beginningduties, the Attendant signs the Entry Log and documentstime on. If the Attendant is relieved of duties, time off shallbe documented. Any subsequent attendant, shalldocument time on and time off. Attendant will documentthe entrants name, company, time in, time out, andatmospheric monitoring data.





5.4.9.3 Entry Supervisor authorizes entry by signing the permit atthe entry portal after verifying the following:

5.4.9.3.1 Equipment preparation is complete

5.4.9.3.2 Confined Space is isolated per this procedure

5.4.9.3.3 All initial atmospheric monitoring is conductedand documented

5.4.9.3.4 Ventilation plans documented andimplemented

5.4.9.3.5 Attendant is present, has all necessaryequipment, and understands his/her duties

5.4.9.3.6 No hoses or other connections present thatcould introduce hazardous chemicals into thespace

5.4.9.3.7 The space is now safe to enter

5.4.10 Transfer of Authority

5.4.10.1 When responsibility for a permit space entry for that permitduration is transferred to a new Entry Supervisor, theCurrent Entry Supervisor and the Accepting EntrySupervisor shall sign the field copy of the confined spaceentry permit to transfer responsibility.

5.4.11 If the Unit/Plant Alarm sounds the following shall be required:

5.4.11.1 All confined spaces must be evacuated

5.4.11.2 The Confined Space permit(s) may be re-authorized once“All Clear” has been given

5.4.11.3 Initial Monitoring by the Entry Supervisor shall beconducted before Confined Space Permit is re-authorized





5.4.12 The field copy of the Confined Space Permit shall be returned tothe Entry Supervisor once the permit time is complete.

6.0 Atmospheric Monitoring

6.1 Initial Monitoring

6.1.1 Before entry into a confined space, atmospheric monitoring shall beconducted for hazardous atmospheres by the Entry Supervisor.

6.1.2 For initial and continuous monitoring, direct reading atmosphericmonitoring equipment that can measure oxygen, LEL, CO andappropriate toxin as identified by Operations shall be used.

6.1.3 Initial monitoring of the atmospheric conditions shall be conductednear and at the entry portal and in as much as possible, areaswhere entrants will be present or working and results shall bedocumented.

6.1.4 Ventilation shall be shut down for a minimum of fifteen (15) minutesbefore initial monitoring is conducted.

6.1.5 Initial Monitoring shall consist of:

6.1.5.1 Oxygen6.1.5.2 Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)6.1.5.3 Carbon Monoxide (CO)6.1.5.4 Toxicity

See Appendix B - Confined Space Toxicity/Atmosphere Summary

6.1.6 Atmospheric monitoring shall follow the rule of two (2) minutes ofsampling time, plus two (2) seconds of sampling time for every footof extension (tubes or probes), unless the meter’s manufacturers’recommendation is more stringent.





6.1.7 Whenever testing of the atmosphere indicates that levels of oxygen,flammability or toxicity are not within acceptable limits, entry shallbe prohibited until appropriate controls are implemented.

6.1.8 If continuous or periodic atmospheric monitoring has not startedwithin thirty (30) minutes after the initial atmospheric monitoring, theentry is suspended, ventilation must be cut off for fifteen (15)minutes, and initial monitoring by the Entry Supervisor must beconducted again before entry.

6.2 Continuous Monitoring

6.2.1 Confined space atmospheres shall be continuously monitored bythe Attendant as close as possible to the work zone recording thedata every one (1) hour on the “Atmospheric Monitoring” section ofthe Confined Space Permit.

6.2.2 Continuous monitoring shall test for same elements as initialmonitoring.

6.2.3 The Attendant’s first log of atmospheric monitoring shall berecorded immediately upon arrival at the space.

6.2.4 If any confined space is vacated (no entrants) and no atmosphericmonitoring is conducted for thirty (30) minutes, the entry issuspended, ventilation must be cut off for fifteen (15) minutes, andinitial monitoring by the Entry Supervisor must be conducted beforere-entry.

6.2.5 Anytime a Direct Reading Instrument’s alarm sounds for a reasonother than a pump failure:

6.2.5.1 Each entrant must leave the space

6.2.5.2 The cause of the alarm must be evaluated, rectified, anddocumented by the Entry Supervisor on the ConfinedSpace Entry Permit in the Comments section prior to re-entry.





6.2.5.3 Initial Monitoring by the Entry Supervisor shall beconducted prior to re-entry.

NOTE: If a pump failure is unable to be cleared, then entrants must exitthe space until monitoring can be resumed.

6.2.6 If an entrant has a complaint about the atmosphere of a confinedspace:

6.2.6.1 Each entrant must leave the space

6.2.6.2 The complaint must be evaluated, rectified, anddocumented by the Entry Supervisor on the ConfinedSpace Entry Permit in the Comments section prior to re-entry.

6.2.6.3 Initial Monitoring by the Entry Supervisor shall beconducted prior to re-entry.

6.3 Periodic Atmospheric Monitoring

6.3.1 If activities such as hydro or abrasive blasting will be conductedinside the space, the attendant shall monitor the space on aperiodic basis recording the data every (1) hour on the CSE Log.

6.3.1.1 Personal atmospheric monitoring may be discontinuedduring activities that could damage the Direct ReadingInstrument.

6.3.2 If a chemical was present in the space, for which there are no directreading instruments, then periodic monitoring shall be performedusing the appropriate gas detection tube in conjunction withcontinuous monitoring by a Direct Reading Instrument. Thisinformation shall be recorded on the CSE log every hour.

6.4 Personal Atmospheric Monitoring





6.4.1 At least one entrant working per work zone inside the confinedspace shall wear a personal atmospheric monitor. The quantity andlocation of the personal atmospheric monitors will be determined bythe Entry Supervisor.

6.4.2 Personal monitors must be configured with the following sensors:

6.4.2.1 Oxygen6.4.2.2 LEL6.4.2.3 CON

6.4.3 Personal monitors may be “passive” or active” direct readinginstruments.

6.5 Atmospheric Monitoring Equipment

6.5.1 Before employing any portable gas detection equipment, the EntrySupervisor will ensure the calibration and bump test are current.(Calibration shall be monthly and bump test within 24 hours).Calibration information shall be documented on the Confined SpacePermit.

6.5.2 Alarm Settings for atmospheric monitoring components

Component Low Alarm HighAlarm

STELALARM

TWAALARM

Oxygen 19.5% 23.5% N/A N/ALEL 1% N/A N/A N/ACO 25 ppm 50 ppm 200 ppm 35 ppm

Chlorine .5 ppm 1 ppm 1 ppm 0.5 ppmEDC 10 ppm 20 ppm 10 ppm 10 ppmVCM 2.5 ppm 5 ppm 5 ppm 1 ppmHCL 2 ppm N/A 2 ppm 2 ppm

7.0 Isolation and Control of Hazardous Energy





7.1 General

7.1.1 All energy sources which are potentially hazardous to confinedspace entrants shall be secured, relieved, disconnected and/orrestrained before personnel are permitted to enter the confinedspace.

7.2 Isolation

7.2.1 Methods and means shall be selected and used to preventflammable, explosive, toxic, irritating or oxygen displacing gases,vapors, liquids and solids from entering the space.

7.2.2 A confined space shall be isolated to prevent entry of material(s)and hazardous contaminants using one or more of the followingmethods:

7.2.2.1 Inserting a blind between two flanges, sized for the properpressure in piping nearest to the confined space.

7.2.2.2 If blinding nearest the confined space cannot be achieved,Unit Manager Approval shall be required on the ConfinedSpace Permit.

7.2.2.3 Depressurizing and disconnecting contaminant supplyline(s) and providing a blind on piping sized for thepressure leading into the confined space.

7.2.2.4 Misaligning pipe(s) at connections closest to the confinedspace and/or capping, blinding and/or plugging ends.

7.2.2.5 Pipe or similar conveyances between the confined spaceand point(s) of isolation shall be drained, cleaned orflushed of hazardous material and known hazardouscontaminants as necessary.

7.2.3 Precautions shall be taken to ensure that whenever drains, vents,or piping are left open that reversal of flows, or air contaminationfrom adjacent processing, or chemical handling, cannot enter theconfined space.





7.2.4 In confined spaces where complete isolation is not possible,provisions shall be made to isolate the space to the extent possibleand control all other processes so the entry team is not in dangerand an evaluation conducted according to section 5.2 HazardManagement.

7.2.5 Special precautions shall be taken when entering double walled,jacketed or internally insulated confined spaces that may dischargehazardous material through the vessel’s internal wall.

7.3 Lockout/Tagout

7.3.1 Machines, equipment or processes shall be locked or tagged or both per505 – Lockout Tagout

8.0 Ventilation

8.1 A ventilation plan is required for all confined space entries and must bekept documented on the Rescue Preplan.

8.2 Air movers or other means of introducing air into the space shall be placedin such a manner to minimize the possibility of introducing aircontaminants, which may create unacceptable limits (e.g., carbonmonoxide).

8.3 Ventilation shall be maintained during the entire entry.

8.4 Ventilation equipment shall be bonded and grounded to eliminate staticenergy.

8.5 Ventilation must be installed in manner that limits short-circuiting (I.e.Installing air horns with makeshift plywood flange to cover the entireopening.

8.6 Ductwork shall not cause tripping hazards or blocked exits.

8.7 The Entry Supervisor shall ensure the ventilation system reflects soundventilation principles of supplying enough clean make-up air andcontrolling the exhaust to prevent creating hazards in other areas.





8.8 Ventilation Requirements for Hot Work

8.8.1 2000 cfm per welder as verified by an air velocity meter.

8.9 Options for Ventilation8.9.1 Dilution Ventilation (Most Preferred)8.9.2 Natural Ventilation8.9.3 Positive Ventilation (I.e. Air-conditioned)8.9.4 Local Exhaust

8.10 The Entry Supervisor shall contact HSE when assistance is needed.

9.0 Cleaning Decontamination

9.1 Confined spaces shall be cleaned and decontaminated of hazardousmaterials as the preferred method of eliminating or reducing exposure.Cleaning and decontamination shall be done to the extent feasible beforeentry.

9.2 Entry team members and equipment shall be decontaminated and cleanedas necessary during or after the confined space activity. Any disposablematerial or equipment used shall be properly discarded per appropriatestandards. Entry team members shall be decontaminated per specifichazard protocol.

9.3 The goal is to always de-inventory and clear confined spaces belowacceptable levels for toxins. In the event, a confined space may not be de-inventoried and cleared below acceptable levels for toxins, entry withSupplied Air Respirators with a five-minute escape pack is required aslong as the levels remain below the IDLH.

10.0 Personal Protective Equipment





10.1 PPE for the work being performed during entry shall be identified on theSafe Work Permit and Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

10.2 All entrants will be required to wear full body harness attached to a lifelineunless deemed to be more unsafe by Entry Supervisor.

10.3 Entry Supervisor and ERT member developing the Rescue Plan willdetermine harness and lifeline requirements. If they will be waived this willbe documented on the Rescue Preplan.

11.0 Auxiliary Equipment

11.1 Each entry and exit point shall be evaluated to determine the mosteffective methods and equipment enabling employees to safely enter andexit the confined space. Means for safe entry and exit shall be providedand used as prescribed by the Entry Supervisor throughout the duration ofthe entry.

11.2 Electrical Equipment

11.2.1 Tools, lighting, communication and test equipment which will beused in hazardous or classified locations should be listed, labeledor otherwise determined to be safe for the class and use by anaccredited nationally recognized testing laboratory acceptable toOSHA or other authority having jurisdiction.

11.2.2 Where there is potential for electrical shock, appropriate electricalequipment or systems shall be used. This would includeprotection such as ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI), assuredgrounding systems, double insulated tools and/or low voltagesystems. GFCI must be at the source of power or at least, at aminimum, outside the confined space.

12.0 Safety Signs and Symbols

12.1 All permit required confined space openings shall have a sign with thewords “DANGER-PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACE.”





12.2 When a confined space has an open entry portal and is unattended, theAttendant will ensure the confined space sign must is visible and RedBarricade tape is covering the hole to prevent unauthorized entry.

12.3 If the unattended opening has a potential for fall hazard, the Attendantmust ensure the opening is hard barricaded.

12.4 When an inert gas (i.e. Nitrogen) is used for equipment preparation andentry portals are open, the open entry portals shall be hard barricaded andtagged with the identification of the inert gas used.

13.0 Emergency Response, Evacuation and Rescue

13.1 Types of Emergency Response

13.1.1 Evacuation of the confined space when hazards are identifiedduring an entry (self-rescue).

13.1.2 Retrieval by trained crew members using non-entry methods.

13.1.3 Rescue entry by trained emergency responders

13.2 Rescue Pre-Plan

13.2.1 A rescue pre-plan must be developed by a ERT member prior toany Confined Space Entry.

13.2.2 The pre-plan must be documented on the Westlake ConfinedSpace Rescue Pre-Plan form in Appendix C.

13.2.3 The pre-plan may be completed in advance with the exception ofthe “ERT on Site” section, which must be completed on the dateof entry.

13.2.4 Security will facilitate availability of ERT members for each shift.Security will identify ERT onsite at the beginning of each shift andsend the list to the Shift Supervisor or Incident Commander.





13.2.5 For vertical entries greater than 5 feet requires a retrieval systemto be at minimum located and set up near the entry portal.

13.2.6 Prior to the issuance of the Confined Space Entry Permit, theEntry Supervisor shall:

13.2.6.1 Contact an ERT member to authorize that the pre-plan isvalid for conditions existing on day of entry.

13.2.6.2 Verify and document ERT on site on Preplan.

13.2.6.3 Alert ERT members identified on preplan of confinedspace entry

13.2.7 A minimum of four (4) ERT members must be onsite for eachshift.

13.2.8 The Confined Space Rescue Pre-plan must be communicated tothe Entry Team at the Pre-Conference Meeting.

13.2.9 A copy of the Pre-plan must be with the confined space permitand the original copy with operations.

13.3 Rescue Procedures

13.3.1 When a rescue becomes necessary the attendant:

13.3.1.1 Will immediately summon the Rescue Team via plantradio

13.3.1.2 Will sound four short blasts from an air horn during anemergency

13.3.1.3 Stay at the entry until the Rescue Team arrives

NOTE: The attendant shall not under any circumstance enter theconfined space to rescue the employee inside.

13.3.2 All confined space activities in the facility shall stop until the “AllClear” has been given.





13.3.3 The ERT team will evaluate the conditions of the confined spaceto determine if the confined space is safe for entry rescue:

13.3.3.1 Verification of isolation and control ofhazardous energy

13.3.3.2 Atmospheric conditions13.3.3.3 Initial facts of emergency13.3.3.4 Number and condition of entrants

13.3.4 The ERT team will rescue entrants as required.

14.0 Training

14.1 The Entry Team shall be trained as to acquire the understanding,knowledge and skills necessary to perform their role

14.1.1 Frequency of Training

14.1.1.1 Before the employee is assigned to his role

14.1.1.2 Before there is a change in role or duties

14.1.1.3 When there is a change in the permit operations thatintroduces a hazard that was not previously known

14.1.1.4 When the employees show a deficiency in theirknowledge and skills associated with their assignedEntry Team Role

14.2 Training shall be developed as to provide the knowledge and skills inaccordance with this procedure and will be revised to reflect deficienciesand new regulatory requirements.

14.3 Confined Space Rescue Team

14.3.1 Minimum training requirements:

14.3.1.1 Rescue Industrial Level I/II14.3.1.2 Confined Space Entry requirements14.3.1.3 Respiratory Protection





14.3.1.4 Search and rescue techniques14.3.1.5 Patient packaging14.3.1.6 Mechanical advantage14.3.1.7 Specific chemical properties and hazards14.3.1.8 Emergency Medical Responder (ERM)

14.3.2 To remain active on the Confined Space Rescue Team, memberswill practice making confined space rescues at least once a year:

14.3.2.1 Simulating rescue operations14.3.2.2 Removing personnel through representative confined

space openings

15.0 Record Retention and Program Review

15.1 Record Retention

15.1.1 Confined Space Entry Permits will be retained by the productiondepartments and sent to the HSE Department at the end of theyear.

15.1.2 The HSE Department will retain all Confined Space Entry Permitsfor thirty (30) years.

15.1.3 Training records are maintained in Geismar’s LearningManagement System.

15.1.4 This procedure will be controlled in Home - GVC DOCS

15.2 Program Review

15.2.1 Westlake’s Confined Space Entry Procedure will be reviewedannually. The HSE Department will ensure this review isperformed.

15.2.2 The Safety Committee will review the canceled confined spacepermits annually.





16.0 References

16.1 ANSI/ASSE Z117.1 – 2016 – Safety Requirements for Entering ConfinedSpaces

16.2 29 CFR 1910.146 Permit-required confined Spaces16.3 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA Confined Space in Construction

Revision History

Rev Changes Approved DateClarification permit not to exceed oneMaintenance Shift to read “12 Hour Shift” R. Meyers 12/12/18

17 Complete Revision. Revised Confined SpaceProgram in accordance with ANSI Z117.1 2016 R. Meyers 5/4/18





Appendix A - Confined Space Classification Table

Parameters Class A Class B Class CCharacteristics immediately dangerous to life

and health - rescue proceduresrequire the entry of more thanone individual fully equippedwith life support equipment -maintenance of communicationrequires an additional standbyperson stationed within theconfined space

dangerous, but not immediatelylife threatening - rescueprocedures require the entry ofone or more than one individualfully equipped with life supportequipment - indirect visual orauditory communication withworkers

potential hazard - requires nomodification of workprocedures - standard rescueprocedures - directcommunication with workers,from outside the confinedspace

Oxygen 16% or less 16.1% to 19.4%or greater than 23.6%

19.5% - 23.5%

FlammabilityCharacteristics

10% or greater of LEL 1% - 9% LEL <1% LEL

Toxicity *IDLH greater than contamination level,referenced in Appendix B’sAcceptable Levels

less than contamination levelreferenced in Appendix B’sAcceptable Levels

*Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health - as referenced in NIOSH Registry of Toxic and Chemical Substances, Manufacturing Chemists datasheets, industrial hygiene guides, or other recognized authorities.

Note: Class A work is not permitted by Westlake & Contract Personnel unless for rescue purposes or variance approved by Health and Safety andPlant Manager.

Note: All Class A entries require Standby Rescue.





Appendix B - Confined Space Toxicity/Atmosphere Summary

TOXINS/

ATMOSPHERE OEL ACCEPTABLE IDLHDIRECT READING

INSTRUMENT/ SENSORSCURRENT

INSTRUMENTS

Oxygen 21% 19.5 – 22% <19.5 %Any direct reading instrument with

an oxygen sensor IBrid MX6; Ventis MX4

Flammability(% LEL) < 1% < 1% N/A

Any direct reading with an

LEL Sensor

IBrid MX6; Ventis MX4

CarbonMonoxide

(CO) <25 ppm < 25 ppm 1200 ppmAny direct reading instrument

with a CO sensor.IBrid MX6; Ventis MX4

VCM ppm 1 ppm < 1 ppm N/AAny direct reading instrumentwith a PID w/10.6 lamp or PID

with 11.7 lamp

MiniRae 2000; MiniRae 3000;IBrid MX6

EDC ppm 10 ppm <10 ppm 50 ppm PID w/ 11.7 lamp MiniRae 3000

Chlorine ppm .5 ppm < .5 ppm 10 ppmAny direct reading instrument with

a chlorine sensorIBrid MX6

EDC/ VCMmixture 1.0 ppm < 1.0 ppm 50 ppm PID w/10.6 lamp and

PID w/ 11.7 lamp

MiniRae 3000 and

IBrid MX6





Appendix D – Confined Space Entry Permit

HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURE 503 – Confined Space ......confined space to perform an assigned task....

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