When must a confined space permit be renewed?

A confined space permit must be renewed each time someone leaves and re-enters the confined space to ensure the safety of workers. The conditions within a confined space can change rapidly due to various factors, such as the introduction of new hazards, changes in air quality, or shifts in the work being performed. By requiring a renewal of the permit upon re-entry, the safety protocols are upheld, allowing for a current assessment of the space before personnel re-enter. This practice ensures that all safety measures are still valid and that the risks associated with the confined space are properly managed, thus protecting workers from unexpected dangers.