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Course Set - RIIWHS202E & MSMWHS217 (Confined Space and Gas Testing Atmospheres)


This course set is designed for new and experienced personnel required to work in confined spaces and carry out gas testing of an atmosphere prior to entering a specific area or workspace in the resources and infrastructure industries at an operational level. Many roles require confined space training, including safety, injury prevention and maintenance personnel, engineers, risk managers, mine managers, cable installers and transport personnel and safety observers/ stand-by personnel. 

Participants will learn to distinguish what constitutes a confined space; key terminology; as well as understand the regulations and legislative requirements governing entering and working in and around confined spaces. Participants will identify hazards and emergencies as well as implement appropriate control measures; conduct risk assessments and apply for a confined space entry permit. Atmospheric testing is an important component of confined space work as these working environments may be hazardous, unpredictable, subject to time pressure, chaotic and expose responders to risk, on land or water, by day or night. Workplace atmospheres may include visible and invisible hazards and hazardous surfaces.  

Students will demonstrate how to enter, exit and work safely in a confined space according to an issued permit for two scenarios. Participants will also inspect and select appropriate personal protective gear; operate various confined space safety equipment including atmospheric testing/monitoring devices and interpret the results to take appropriate action; and conduct routine servicing of all equipment and gear. 

Units Delivered

The following units will be included in your certificate:

Course Delivery

This course can be delivered/assessed in the workplace or at facility organised by the training provider.

Course Durations

Course durations can vary for multiple reasons, so the durations below are the minimum possible amount.

Refresher Face to Face contact time of at least 5 Hours
Face-to-Face Face to Face contact time of at least 9 Hours
Online with face-to-face assessment Face to Face contact time of at least 4 Hours

An individual undertaking this course  will need to demonstrate the following to be eligible for entry: 

  • Psychological* and physical capability to be able to meet the demands of the practical demonstrations for this course, such as the undertaking of the requirements to safely enter, work in and exit a confined space wearing appropriate PPE.  This may involve climbing up, down, through or under structures or confined spaces, being temporarily suspended, wearing harnesses and other relevant PPE, dragging and lifting in confined and restricted environments in dark, low light or smoke-filled areas. 

  • Protective footwear/safety shoes and comfortable/practical clothing must be provided by the student and worn during the practical sessions and assessment. 

  • Language, literacy and numeracy requirements - students must be able to read and correctly interpret required documentation relevant to the confined space entry, speak clearly and unambiguously in English, explain, describe and verify sometimes complex needs and issues and understand the permit requirements. Writing is required to the level of completing workplace forms and producing any required reports. Numeracy is required to the level of being able to correctly differentiate between high and low pressures and temperatures, voltages or masses and interpret gas test/monitoring results. 

*Safe Work Australia notes “Working in a confined space may impose physiological and psychological demands over and above those encountered in a normal working environment. Consideration should be given to a worker’s: 

  • physical ability; 

  • ability to work in a restrictive space (for example claustrophobia) and ability to wear the PPE required to do the work (for example respirators).”  

Code of Practice - Confined Spaces, December 2011  

Individuals undertaking this course set will be expected to complete both written and practical assessment tasks.

The units have the following recommended renewal periods:
Unit Period
RIIWHS202E - Enter and work in confined spaces Not applicable
MSMWHS217 - Gas test atmospheres Not applicable

Please note that enrolment to this course is made with Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909. Please refer to the student handbook located on the RTO website allenstraining.com.au (https://allenstraining.com.au/students/student-handbook) for all details relating to rights and responsibilities including complaints and appeals.

Practical scenarios: 

  • Perform a horizontal and vertical entry into a confined space
  • Prepare for and test gas in a confined space and/or other potentially unsafe space or area
  • Use and maintain testing and monitoring equipment
  • Identify hazards and control them
  • Interpret readings and take required action
  • Follow communication and recording procedures

Documentation : 

  • Complete two Job Safety Environmental Analysis (JSEA)/ Safe Work Methods Statement (SWMS) forms    
  • Apply for and obtain a Confined space entry permit for both scenarios – horizontal and vertical entry 
  • Record gas testing results 

Theory assessment – A written exam consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions. All questions must be successfully completed.

This course is delivered and assessed on behalf of Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909