An attendant is required whenever the space is considered permit-required. At Virginia Tech, a permit space is one where all hazards have not been eliminated, isolated, or controlled through ventilation. If a permit space is to be entered, the Entry Supervisor should contact EHS to coordinate entry activities.

Many departments use a best practice of having an attendant where one is not required (i.e. space is not permit-required). The attendant should attend EHS training for Entrants/Attendants/Supervisors in order to recognize potential hazards and perform associated duties.