RAMS for Confined Space: FREE Template + Generator
Build a compliant Confined Space Entry & Rescue RAMS in minutes—UK hazards, controls, permits, and a clear rescue plan included.
Trusted by 100+ UK contractors
“The generator took us from a blank page to a signed confined space permit and rescue plan in under an hour. Our topman loved the clear checklists and we passed the client audit first time.”
5 star ratingTom Reeves· Contracts Manager, Utilities Contractor
What you get
- End-to-end RAMS covering entry classification, permit references and rescue roles tailored to the space type.
- Printable rescue plan with equipment lists (tripod, winch, BA, stretchers) and checklist for drills.
- Atmospheric testing log that captures calibration dates, sampling depths and alarm thresholds.
- Briefing sheet for topmen outlining communications, log keeping and stop-work triggers.
Why teams choose RAMSGen
Don't waste time wrangling ad-hoc Word templates. Create a site-specific Confined Space Entry & Rescue RAMS from the start.
Benefits
- ✓Evidence compliance with the Confined Spaces Regulations by showing elimination checks, permits and competent teams in one pack.
- ✓Reduce audit findings by documenting gas testing, rescue kit and BA checks alongside the method statement.
- ✓Speed up client approval when working for utilities, FM or water boards who demand detailed rescue narratives.
Risks of manual RAMS
- !Incomplete rescue plans or BA references lead to immediate permit rejection and costly delays.
- !If gas testing records are absent, entry can be stopped mid-shift by the client H&S team.
- !Generic RAMS rarely assign topman duties, increasing the chance of uncontrolled entries or failed rescues.
Manual drafting
4 hrs
RAMSGen
8 min
Typical manual prep vs RAMSGen automation
Also searched for
confined spaces RAMS, permit-to-work, topman, tripod & winch, BA entry, inert entry
Generic RAMS template
Snapshot hazards
- Unsafe atmosphere: oxygen deficiency/enrichment, toxic gases/vapours (e.g., H2S, CO).
- Flammable/explosive atmospheres from vapours, gases, or dusts.
- Inrush/engulfment by liquids, sludge, or free-flowing solids.
- Restricted access/egress leading to entrapment or delayed rescue.
- Mechanical, electrical, or process hazards from unisolated services.
Critical controls
- Avoid entry where reasonably practicable (perform work from outside using remote tools or changes in design).
- Permit-to-Work and task-specific Safe System of Work led by a competent supervisor and standby (topman).
- Isolation/LOTO of all energy and process sources; drain, purge and make safe with signage and barriers.
- Atmospheric testing before and during entry; forced ventilation/extraction to maintain safe levels; intrinsically safe equipment where flammables could be present.
- Prepared rescue plan with trained personnel, retrieval system (tripod/winch), suitable RPE, communications, and practice drills.
Permits & references
- Confined Space Permit-to-Work (with named entrants, topman and supervisor).
- Isolation/LOTO certificate for electrical, mechanical and process systems.
- Hot Work Permit where ignition sources are introduced.
- Rescue plan approval and briefing record.
- Atmospheric testing/monitoring record (pre-entry and continuous).
Implementation walkthrough
- 1
Planning and avoidance: carry out the risk assessment; consider alternatives to entry; classify the entry risk; appoint a competent supervisor and dedicated topman.
- 2
Isolate services: identify and lock off electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and process feeds; blank or cap lines; drain/purge; display isolation tags and warning signage.
- 3
Permits and briefing: complete the Confined Space Permit-to-Work and rescue plan; record names, roles, time limits; deliver the pre-entry toolbox talk and confirm understanding.
- 4
Atmospheric testing (pre-entry): test from outside at top/middle/bottom for oxygen, flammables (% LEL) and expected toxics; verify calibration; record results against limits.
- 5
Ventilate: set up forced air or extraction to achieve clean air; avoid recirculation; re-test until readings are stable and within limits.
- 6
Access and rescue setup: install tripod, winch and recovery lines; fit edge protection; set barriers and signage; confirm communications and intrinsically safe lighting.
- 7
PPE and equipment checks: complete BA/RPE pre-use checks and face-fit where required; fit harnesses; check radios/gas detectors; confirm tools are non-sparking/ATEX-rated where needed.
- 8
Controlled entry: topman logs entrants; maintain continuous gas monitoring; keep communication open; respect occupancy limits and permit timings.
- 9
Carry out the task: maintain ventilation and housekeeping; manage hot work or chemicals under additional permits; rotate workers to control fatigue/heat stress.
- 10
Exit and close-out: withdraw on any alarm; on completion, remove waste, decontam equipment, sign out, final gas check, close the permit, reinstate services and debrief the team.
How to create a site-specific Confined Space Entry & Rescue RAMS
Transform the generic template above into a compliant, site-specific document by addressing these critical areas:
Site-specific customization checklist
- 1
Exact location and description of the confined space (type, dimensions, entry points).
- 2
Known or suspected contaminants and target gas thresholds/limits for the task.
- 3
Isolation points and method (valves, blanks, electrical lock-offs) with ID numbers.
- 4
Ventilation method (supply/extract), airflow target and discharge location.
- 5
Rescue equipment location and anchorage details; recovery path kept clear.
- 6
Team roles, numbers and competence records (entrants, topman, rescue lead).
- 7
Primary and secondary egress routes; maximum occupancy and time limits per entrant.
- 8
Communication method and channel; mobile coverage/blackspots noted.
- 9
Interface with adjacent works (traffic, hot work, cleaning chemicals) and controls.
- 10
Emergency contacts: site address, grid reference/postcode, rendezvous point and access gates.
HSE compliance alert
This template supports compliance with the UK Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and HSE guidance (e.g., L101) but does not replace a site-specific risk assessment. Always eliminate entry where reasonably practicable and implement a robust rescue plan before authorising entry. Supervisors must verify competence, permits and monitoring before work starts.
Why RAMSGen makes this easier
Instead of manually editing Word templates and cross-referencing multiple guidance documents, RAMSGen walks you through each customization step with intelligent prompts. Answer questions about your site, and the platform automatically generates a compliant RAMS that incorporates:
- Project-specific hazards based on your site layout and access constraints
- Emergency plans with routes to the nearest A&E and site-specific assembly points
- Permits, inspections, and quality checkpoints aligned to your schedule
- Branded PDF exports ready for principal contractor submission
Frequently asked questions
Do I always need a rescue plan for confined space entry?
Yes. UK law requires suitable emergency arrangements. Do not rely solely on the Fire & Rescue Service—have trained personnel, retrieval equipment and a practiced plan on site.
What gas tests are required before entry?
Test oxygen, flammables (% LEL) and expected toxics (e.g., H2S, CO, solvent vapours). Sample at top/middle/bottom, record results and continue monitoring throughout the entry.
What oxygen and flammable limits are typically used?
Typical safe oxygen range is about 19.5–23.5% and flammables below 10% LEL for entry. Always follow the limits stated on your permit and risk assessment.
Is Breathing Apparatus (BA) mandatory for all entries?
No. BA is required where the assessment shows actual or potential hazardous atmospheres or rapid change. Low-risk, clean-air entries may proceed without BA if continuous monitoring confirms safety.
What are the duties of the topman/standby person?
Remain at the entry point with no other duties, control access, maintain comms, monitor gas readings, keep the log and initiate non-entry rescue using retrieval equipment if needed.
How many people are needed for a confined space team?
Typically at least three: competent entrant(s), a dedicated topman/standby, and trained rescue support. Team size increases with risk level and task complexity.
What should be included in a Confined Space Permit-to-Work?
Hazards and controls, named personnel and roles, gas test results/limits, isolation details, rescue plan and equipment, authorised time window and sign-on/off records.
What should we do if a gas detector alarms during entry?
Withdraw immediately, account for all entrants, ventilate and investigate. Only re-enter with authorisation once readings are stable and within limits and the cause is controlled.
Do communications and lighting need to be intrinsically safe?
Yes, where flammable atmospheres could exist or be generated. Use ATEX-rated radios, lighting and tools suitable for the designated hazardous zone.
What is a confined space under UK regulations?
A substantially enclosed place where a specified risk is foreseeable, such as serious injury from fire/explosion, loss of consciousness from oxygen deficiency/toxics, drowning or asphyxiation.
Calculate your RAMS preparation costs
See how much time and money you could save by switching from manual RAMS preparation to RAMSGen's automated workflow.
RAMSGen Cost Calculator
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Monthly volume
4 RAMS
Manually
£960
24 hrs of labour
RAMSGen
£60
2.4 hrs with RAMSGen
You save
£900
21.6 hrs saved
Useful articles
Deep dives picked for Confined Space Entry & Rescue teams.
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