Confined Space Standby Training

This course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge required to safely observe permit-controlled work and conduct atmospheric testing using electronic gas detection equipment. Whether you're acting as a safety observer or performing gas tests prior to work commencement, understanding and managing potential hazards is crucial for maintaining a safe work environment.

Accredited Units of Competency

On successful completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment for the following nationally recognised units:

• RIIWHS202E Enter and work in confined spaces
• RIIRIS201E Conduct local risk control
• MSMPER200 Work in accordance with an issued permit
• MSMPER300 Issue work permits
• MSMPER202 Observe permit work
• MSMPER300 Issue work permits*
• MSMWHS217 Gas test atmospheres

 

Prerequisites

• MSMWHS201 Conduct hazard analysis is a prerequisite unit for MSMPER300 Issue work permits

 
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What You’ll Learn

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Perform two confined space entries using harnesses and retrieval systems
• Understand the legal responsibilities of a Standby Person in confined space operations
• Interpret and monitor confined space permits and ensure all controls are in place
• Maintain continuous communication with entrants
• Observe work activities to ensure compliance with permit conditions and SWMS
• Identify and respond to changing hazards, unsafe behaviours, or permit breaches
• Carry out gas testing, interpret readings, and report unsafe atmospheric levels
• Initiate emergency response procedures in accordance with the Rescue Plan
• Accurately complete permit close-out and end-of-day handover documentation

Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for:

• Workers acting as Standby Personnel / Safety Observer for confined space tasks
• Supervisors and permit issuers
• Workers in construction, utilities, councils, industrial maintenance, shutdowns and civil work
• Employers who need to comply with WHS Regulations & AS/NZS 2865 Confined Spaces

 
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How the Training Works

Training Delivery

• Delivered in person by a qualified trainer at one of Maxwell Training’s purpose-built simulators or an approved training facility
• The total course duration includes practical activities and assessments
• Learners will take part in demonstrations, group discussions, and realistic simulations in confined spaces

 

Practical Activities

• Checking permits and confirming isolations, signage and rescue plans are in place
• Monitoring workers in a confined space via visual checks, signals and verbal communication
• Completing the Confined Space Entry Permit, hazard analysis, and risk control documentation
• Gas testing and atmospheric monitoring using calibrated detectors
• Responding to hazards or unsafe conditions — suspending the permit if required
• Initiating emergency call procedures when a rescue is required
• Completing end-of-shift handover and permit close-out reports

 

Assessment

• Knowledge assessment (multiple choice and short answer)
• Completion of a Portfolio of Evidence including workplace documents such as a Confined Space Entry Permit, risk assessments and gas detector inspection checklists
• Practical demonstration of selecting and issuing correct permits, monitoring confined space entry and ensuring compliance, gas testing and interpreting results, suspending work or initiating emergency response if conditions change

 
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Entry Requirements

To fully participate and stay safe during practical activities, you must meet the following requirements:

General Requirements

• Proof of identity must be supplied and verified on the day of training
• Minimum age of 14 years
• Students under 18 years must provide parental consent (unless linked to an employer)
• You need a Unique Student Identifier (USI) — apply free at www.usi.gov.au

 

Language, Literacy, Numeracy & Digital (LLND)

• Read and complete knowledge questions (basic Year 10 level literacy)
• Read and understand permits, gas test results, safety signs and SWMS
• Complete written reports such as permits, handover forms, risk assessments
• Communicate clearly with entrants and supervisors
• Use a digital device (tablet, smartphone, or laptop) for assessments

 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain stationed at an entry point for extended periods
• Able to wear PPE such as harness and helmet
• Communicate clearly with entrants and supervisors
• Capable of initiating emergency procedures and assisting rescue teams

Got Any Questions?

If you’d like to know more about this course, entry requirements, or booking options — or if you feel that you may need support in class — our team is here to help!

Call us on 1300 MAXWEL or email [email protected] and we’ll make sure you have all the information you need.