RIIWHS202E Isolation and Lockout/Tagout Procedures

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of isolating energy sources before entering a confined space?

Accepted Answer

To prevent accidental activation of equipment that could endanger entrants

Answer

Isolation prevents the unexpected release of stored energy or activation of equipment that could cause injury or death to workers inside the confined space.

Question 2

Under Australian WHS regulations, which of the following is the most reliable method of isolating a mechanical hazard in a confined space?

Accepted Answer

Physical disconnection or blanking of the energy source with lockout applied

Answer

Physical disconnection or blanking combined with lockout provides positive isolation that cannot be overridden accidentally, unlike signs or verbal notification alone.

Question 3

What does the term 'positive isolation' mean in the context of confined space entry?

Accepted Answer

Physically separating the energy source so it cannot be reconnected without deliberate action

Answer

Positive isolation means the energy source is physically separated — for example by a blank flange or physical disconnection — so it cannot be restored without removing the isolation device.

Question 4

When multiple workers are entering a confined space under a single isolation, each worker should:

Accepted Answer

Apply their own personal lock to the lockout device

Answer

Each individual worker must apply their own personal lock so that the energy source cannot be re-energised while any worker remains in the space.

Question 5

A 'blanking plate' or 'blind flange' is used in confined space isolation primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Physically seal a pipe or duct to prevent the flow of substances into the space

Answer

A blank flange or blanking plate is inserted into a pipe or duct to provide a physical barrier preventing gases, liquids or other substances from entering the confined space.

Confined Space Practice Test

Confined Space Practice Test

RIIWHS202E Isolation and Lockout/Tagout Procedures