3-Permit to Work

The Whys ?

The work permit is required to make sure :

• The operations presenting risks are authorized and controlled by habilitated persons ;
• The operation-related risks are identified and the adapted prevention and protection means are put in place as to routine activities, punctual activities, co-activities as well as deteriorated and/or accidental situations ;
• The work authorization is time limited.

The must do's

The work permit is an indispensable tool for safe work realization. Before starting the intervention, one must :

• Make sure the works and tasks are clearly specified ;
• Analyze the risks while taking account of the operating mode and the work environment ;
• Check on the intervention site the safety conditions during permit preparation ;
• Making sure all permit requirements are complied with prior to work start-up as well as during the whole intervention ;
• Inform assigned personnel, during kick-off meeting, about work permit details and especially the potential operation-related hazards ;
• Make out a second permit in case of an exceptionally allowed situation (extended work at night, a nearby work permit...) ;
• The authorization must be delivered by the habilitated competent authority after checking the safety conditions, with the systematic involvement of the intervening parties and the party giving the order ;
• The works must be stopped in case the circumstances are changed ;
• Integrating in the work process end-of-work reception and work permit closure ;
• Ensuring work place safety upon each interruption and work completion ;
• Those authorizing work permits must be habilitated.