LICQual Level 3 Award in Confined Space

Confined space environments pose significant health and safety risks, demanding specialized knowledge, training, and preparedness to ensure worker safety and regulatory compliance. The LICQual Level 3 Award in Confined Space is an internationally recognized qualification designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and competence required to work safely and effectively in high-risk confined spaces.

This advanced-level course focuses on hazard identification, atmospheric testing, emergency procedures, and the use of specialized equipment such as breathing apparatus and gas detectors. It is tailored for professionals involved in industries like construction, utilities, petrochemicals, mining, manufacturing, and emergency response—where confined space entry is a critical operational task.

The LICQual Level 3 Award in Confined Space is built on international safety frameworks, including OSHA, HSE, and ISO guidelines, ensuring applicants meet globally accepted standards. Participants will gain both theoretical and practical knowledge needed to assess risks, follow safe entry protocols, and respond swiftly to emergencies.

Completing this qualification not only enhances individual competence and employability but also contributes to safer work environments and reduced operational downtime. It is an essential certification for supervisors, team leaders, safety officers, and frontline personnel working in or around confined spaces.

The LICQual Level 3 Award in Confined Space offers an in-depth learning experience that covers every critical aspect of working in confined environments. Beginning with an overview of confined space classifications and legal responsibilities, the course lays a strong foundation in understanding why specialized safety procedures are essential.

Participants will explore the key hazards associated with confined spaces, including toxic atmospheres, oxygen deficiency, fire and explosion risks, entrapment, and engulfment. The course emphasizes atmospheric testing techniques, ventilation systems, personal protective equipment (PPE), and respiratory protection, equipping applicants with the knowledge to detect and mitigate risks before entry.

A significant focus is placed on entry permits, communication procedures, rescue planning, and emergency response. applicants will be trained to develop and implement safe systems of work (SSOW), perform dynamic risk assessments, and use rescue equipment effectively in time-critical situations. Practical sessions ensure that participants are confident in donning breathing apparatus, conducting team-based entries, and executing live rescue drills.

Additionally, the course covers international legislation, industry best practices, and the responsibilities of entrants, attendants, and entry supervisors. It prepares applicants to document confined space activities, contribute to audits, and uphold a strong culture of safety compliance within their organizations.

The LICQual Level 3 Award in Confined Space is ideal for individuals who regularly work in, supervise, or manage confined space operations. This certification validates professional capability, strengthens operational safety, and is a valuable addition to any safety-focused career path in high-risk industries worldwide.

Course Overview


Qualification Title

LICQual Level 3 Award in Confined Space


Total Units

6

Total Credits

6

GLH

18

Qualification #

LICQ2200406


Qualification Specification

Download Qualification Specification

To enroll in the LICQual Level 3 Award in Confined Space applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
  • Educational Requirements: There are no specific formal educational qualifications required to enroll. However, candidates should have a basic understanding of workplace health and safety principles.
  • Experience: While prior experience in confined space work is not mandatory, it is recommended that candidates have some experience working in industrial or high-risk environments. Those who are supervisors, team leaders, or safety officers in such settings will benefit from the course content.
  • English Language Proficiency: A strong understanding of written and spoken English is required to ensure comprehension of course materials, safety documentation, and effective communication in emergency situations. Non-native English speakers should have at least CEFR Level B1 or equivalent.

Qualification#

Unit Title

Credits

GLH

LICQ2200406-1

Introduction to Confined Spaces 

1

3

LICQ2200406-2

Hazard Identification 

1

3

LICQ2200406-3

Risk Assessment and Control Measures 

1

3

LICQ2200406-4

Safety Equipment and PPE 

1

3

LICQ2200406-5

Emergency Procedures and Rescue Planning 

1

3

LICQ2200406-6

Legal and Regulatory Compliance 

1

3

By the end of this course, applicants will be able to:

  1. Introduction to Confined Spaces
    • Understand what constitutes a confined space and the associated risks.
    • Identify the types of confined spaces encountered in various industries and the hazards associated with them.
  2. Hazard Identification
    • Recognize the common and potential hazards present in confined spaces, including atmospheric, mechanical, and physical risks.
    • Conduct effective hazard assessments in confined space environments to ensure safe entry and work.
  3. Risk Assessment and Control Measures
    • Perform a thorough risk assessment for confined space work, identifying key hazards and evaluating the level of risk.
    • Implement control measures to minimize identified risks, ensuring the safety of workers and the environment.
  4. Safety Equipment and PPE
    • Identify the appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) needed for confined space work.
    • Understand the correct use, maintenance, and limitations of PPE, such as respirators, harnesses, and gas detectors, to ensure safety during confined space entry.
  5. Emergency Procedures and Rescue Planning
    • Develop and implement emergency procedures and rescue plans for confined space incidents.
    • Understand the roles and responsibilities during an emergency and ensure preparedness for quick, effective rescue operations.
  6. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
    • Understand the legal and regulatory requirements governing confined space entry and work.
    • Ensure compliance with industry-specific standards and health and safety regulations to minimize the risk of legal liabilities.

This diploma is ideal for:

  • Professionals working in industries where confined space entry is a routine task, such as construction, oil and gas, utilities, and manufacturing.
  • Supervisors, managers, and team leaders who oversee confined space operations and need to ensure safety compliance.
  • Health and safety officers or managers responsible for maintaining workplace safety and conducting risk assessments.
  • Workers who are directly involved in confined space entry and need to enhance their knowledge of safety protocols and emergency procedures.
  • Individuals who need to meet legal and regulatory requirements for confined space work within their organization.
  • Those interested in advancing their careers in health and safety, risk management, or confined space operations.
  • Anyone seeking formal training and certification to work safely in confined spaces and respond effectively in emergencies.

Assessment and Verification

All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that applicants meet all specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, applicants must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the applicants has successfully met the required standards.

Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.