Blog Post #10 – Confined Space Entry – Ontario Reg. 632/05 “2nd in Series”

A Co-ordination Document

In a Confined Space with multi-employer involvement, rules are applied if the workers of more than one employer perform work in the same confined space or related work with respect to the same confined space. Before any worker enters the confined space or begins related work with respect to the confined space, the lead employer shall prepare a co-ordination document to ensure that the duties imposed on employers are performed in a way that protects the health and safety of all workers in or around the confined space. The co-ordination document may provide for the performance of a duty or duties by one or more employers on behalf of one or more of the employers, with respect to some or all of the workers.

A copy of the co-ordination document shall be provided to:

a) Each employer of workers who perform work in the same confined space; and
b) The JHSC or Health & Safety representative, if any, for each employer of workers who perform work in the same confined space.

Many employers in Ontario have not provided for a co-ordination document as they feel their contractors should be Competent to enter the Confined Space and deal with the associated hazards on their own. The employer, in this case, looks to have washed their hands of any liability. However, since it is the duty of the lead employer to identify the confined space and create a Plan to identify and deal with the associated hazards, the next step would be to have a co-ordination document available, addressing all aspects of the confined space, the entry, and the associated hazards. The contractor(s) would then be better able to provide better safety for their workers through the proper use of appropriate PPE, the issue of the proper permit, and early awareness of potential hazards.

HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs. Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.

We can also be reached at

Remember In Ontario, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”

‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.

Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Foundation Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.