The obligation
Confined spaces are commonly found in tanks, pits, silos, sewers, trenches, tunnels and similar structures when they meet the WHS Regulations definition.
The Code lists common examples including vats, tanks, pits, pipes, ducts, flues, chimneys, silos, containers, pressure vessels, underground sewers, wet or dry wells, shafts, trenches and tunnels. These are confined spaces only when they meet the definition of a confined space in the WHS Regulations. A confined space does not include a mine shaft or the workings of a mine.
- What
- Confined spaces are commonly found in tanks, pits, silos, sewers, trenches, tunnels and similar structures when they meet the WHS Regulations definition.
- Source
- safeworkaustralia.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
What counts as a confined space is a WHS requirement set out in Confined spaces (FEDERAL). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (FEDERAL). The relevant provision is Confined Spaces COP > Definition.
What does this WHS obligation require?
What counts as a confined space is a WHS obligation under Confined spaces (FEDERAL). In short, Confined spaces are commonly found in tanks, pits, silos, sewers, trenches, tunnels and similar structures when they meet the WHS Regulations definition.
What changed recently?
What counts as a confined space was last updated on 19 October 2026.