Confined Space Management

Confined spaces present a high-risk environment within electricity generation, where hazards such as hazardous atmospheres, restricted access, and limited egress can result in serious harm if not effectively managed.

Across the New Zealand electricity sector, a consistent approach has been adopted based on AS2865:2009 to support safe work in confined spaces. This provides a common foundation for identifying hazards, applying controls, and ensuring work is planned and executed safely.

Purpose

A Confined Space Working Group worked to support alignment across the industry by promoting consistent interpretation and application of confined space requirements within generation plant and facilities.

The group focused on enabling:

• A shared understanding of confined space hazards and risks
• Consistent application of recognised standards
• Practical approaches to safe work and risk management

This helps improve the quality and consistency of confined space practices across the sector.

Status of the Guidance

Industry guidance developed through the StayLive Confined Space Working Group remains aligned to AS2865:2009, which continues to be the commonly adopted standard for confined space management in the electricity generation sector.

Supporting resources, including awareness training and tools, are available to assist organisations in applying these principles in practice.

The Confined Space Certificate or Permit is always used in conjunction with an Access Permit, Work Authority or General Work, as well as a Safe Work Method Statement (e.g. Job Safety Analysis). Refer to the Work Control Procedures for more information on work controls.

NOTE: These resources are intended to complement, not replace, organisational requirements and competency frameworks.

For further information, including access to confined space resources and training materials, refer to StayLive guidance below or contact us with your enquiry.

Links to Guidelines