Permits to work

Where proposed work is identified as having a high risk, strict controls are required. The work must be carried out against previously agreed safety procedures, a 'permit-to-work' system.

The permit-to-work is a documented procedure that authorises certain people to carry out specific work within a specified time frame. It sets out the precautions required to complete the work safely,  based on a risk assessment. It describes what work will be done and how it will be done; the latter can be detailed in a 'method statement'.

The permit-to-work requires declarations from the people authorising the work and carrying out the work. Where necessary it requires a declaration from those involved in shift handover procedures or extensions to the work. Finally, before equipment or machinery is put back into service, it will require a declaration from the permit originator that it is ready for normal use.