Safety code revision mandates video in confined spaces

Implementation will begin on 30 November.

The government published a revised Code of Practice for Safety & Health at Work in Confined Spaces (CoP) requiring proprietors or contractors to adopt technology to record videos at the entrance and exit of confined spaces starting 30 November.

Proprietors or contractors must record videos throughout the work period to monitor relevant personnel's compliance with the safety precautions.

The government will enforce a six-month grace period to allow sufficient time for arranging the implementation of all safety precautions.

The revisions also strengthen supervision requirements for proprietors or contractors overseeing confined space work and clarify criteria for identifying underground pipework tasks.

The revised CoP includes a comprehensive risk assessment form template, details on setting up an air-monitoring alarm, and updates to the Permit-to-work Certificate template.

Failure to comply with the CoP could be considered by the court when assessing whether someone has violated safety and health laws.