What this template includes
This template covers every section of a compliant Confined Space Entry Permit to Work, designed around UK regulatory requirements and the standard expected by insurers and the HSE.
- Permit details — permit number, site, confined space description, entry purpose, permit issuer, entrant(s), standby person, validity period
- Confined space classification — defined as confined space under CS Regs 1997, risk level (low/medium/high)
- Atmospheric test results — O₂ (safe: 19.5–23.5%), LEL (safe: <10%), CO (safe: <20 ppm), H₂S (safe: <5 ppm), tested by, instrument calibration date
- Continuous monitoring requirements — gas monitor in use, alarm levels set, monitoring frequency
- Ventilation — method (natural/forced), ventilation equipment details, airflow confirmed
- Standby person details — name, communication method, cannot enter under any circumstances
- Emergency rescue plan — rescue method (non-entry preferred), rescue equipment location, emergency services pre-notified
- Emergency contacts — site emergency number, nearest hospital with A&E
- Identified hazards — standard confined space hazards pre-populated (pre-filled version)
- Safety controls & precautions — standard controls pre-populated (pre-filled version)
- Authorisation — print name, job title, and signature
- Entrant acknowledgement — each entrant signs before entry
- Closure / re-test record — all entrants accounted for, space left safe, re-test results if work extended
Pre-filled vs blank — which should I use?
The pre-filled version is the best starting point for most uses. Standard hazards, controls, and procedures are pre-populated — you review them, add or remove items to reflect your specific job and site, and fill in the job-specific details. Think of it as an AI-drafted permit you review and adjust, rather than a form you fill in from scratch.
The blank version has all the same sections but with empty fields throughout. Use this if you prefer to populate everything yourself, or if your organisation has its own standard content you want to use.
How to use this template
- Open the .docx file in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. All sections are clearly labelled.
- Fill in the permit details, work description, and validity period for your specific job.
- Review the hazards and controls. Add site-specific items and remove anything that doesn't apply.
- Complete all checklist fields and inspection records before authorising the permit.
- Print and obtain authorisation and permit holder acknowledgement signatures in person.
- Keep a copy on file. Complete the closure section once work is finished.
Legal requirements
Confined space entry permits are required under the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997, which define a confined space as any place substantially enclosed where there is a reasonably foreseeable specified risk — including loss of consciousness from gas, fume, or vapour; drowning; asphyxiation from free-flowing solid; loss of consciousness from high temperature; or fire and explosion.
The regulations require employers to avoid entry where possible; if entry cannot be avoided, a safe system of work must be established including atmospheric testing, standby person, rescue arrangements, and a written permit to work.
The standby person must remain outside the confined space at all times — they cannot enter to assist a casualty under any circumstances. Confined space incidents regularly kill would-be rescuers as well as the original entrant. Non-entry rescue (retrieval lines, tripod) must be the primary rescue method wherever practicable.
→ Read our full guide to Confined Space Entry permits
Want permits without the paperwork?
Confined space incidents are almost always fatal. The permit process exists precisely to prevent entry when conditions are unsafe — but a paper permit cannot enforce the atmospheric test record or flag when gas readings are outside safe limits.
PermitDesk generates confined space entry permits digitally, with the four-gas test table built in, standby person designation captured on record, and a full timestamped audit trail automatically stored from the moment the permit is issued.