Shutdown & Turnaround Safety
Turnaround week is your highest confined-space risk. Most facilities are least prepared for it.
Planned shutdowns concentrate more workers in more confined spaces than any other period. OCS provides rescue standby and safety coverage for multi-day turnarounds - coordinated across concurrent entry points, not a single watch stationed at one manway.
What We Cover
Turnaround safety, start to finish
Pre-shutdown space survey
OCS walks your facility before shutdown day. Every permit-required confined space is documented - geometry, hazards, entry configuration, anchor points. Rescue pre-plans delivered before work begins.
Multi-point rescue coordination
When multiple teams enter concurrently, OCS coordinates rescue coverage across all active entry points. Not one person watching one hole - a managed operation across your full shutdown scope.
Atmospheric monitoring throughout
Continuous monitoring at each active entry point. O₂, LEL, H₂S, CO. Entry is not authorized until atmospheric conditions are documented acceptable. Readings recorded throughout.
Entry supervisor coordination
OCS rescue personnel coordinate directly with your designated entry supervisors. Clear communication protocols, shared permit documentation, and a defined escalation chain if entry is suspended.
Daily documentation package
End-of-day entry logs, atmospheric readings, and incident-free certifications for your compliance file. Documentation is in your hands the same day.
Emergency liaison
OCS pre-coordinates with local emergency services before shutdown week. If rescue escalation is needed, the response path is already established - not improvised under pressure.
Coverage available for shutdowns of 1 day to multiple weeks. Advance scheduling required - OCS does not take same-day turnaround requests. Plan 2–4 weeks ahead for standard coverage, 4–6 weeks for large-scale turnarounds.
Common Questions
Shutdown and turnaround safety - FAQ
What rescue coverage is required during a planned shutdown?
Any confined space entry during a shutdown requires a rescue procedure and a qualified rescue team under OSHA 1910.146(k). Shutdowns typically increase the number of spaces being entered simultaneously, which means you need coverage scaled to your actual entry scope - not a single person watching one hole while three other teams are underground elsewhere in the facility.
How far in advance should I book turnaround coverage?
Plan 4-6 weeks ahead for standard turnarounds, longer for large-scale multi-week shutdowns. OCS does not take same-day turnaround requests. Slots fill up and pre-entry space surveys take time to do right - contact OCS as soon as your shutdown dates are locked.
Can OCS handle multiple concurrent entry points?
Yes. OCS coordinates rescue coverage across all active entry points during a shutdown, with atmospheric monitoring at each. When multiple teams enter concurrently, coverage is managed as a coordinated operation - not one watch point. Scope and staffing are confirmed before shutdown day.
What documentation does OCS provide after a shutdown?
OCS delivers daily entry logs, atmospheric monitoring records, and incident-free certifications for your OSHA compliance file, same day. Written rescue pre-plans are delivered before work begins and become part of your permit documentation.
When's your next shutdown?
OCS fills turnaround safety slots weeks in advance. Send your dates and scope now - don't wait until the week before to find out we're already booked.
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