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Copies of the permit should be clearly displayed

• One copy at the work site or near the locations where the work is carried out
• One copy in the main control or permit co-ordination room
• One copy should be kept with the issuing authority.

Having permit to work document does not ensure safety is in place. Management system to put
permit in practice ensures safety. Permits are often treated as unnecessary paperwork as it is a
mandatory documentation process, which makes the issuing authority to issue permits without
identifying the hazards or confirming that suitable controls in place before the work starts, hence
it can lead to adverse effects.

A Permit to work system will be effective only when

• When issued by the authorised issuing authority
• Issuing authority is familiar with the nature of work carried out as well as hazards associated
with the work.
• Checking precautions before authorising permits
• Permits must never be modified
• All workers must be trained and competent
• Effective monitoring to make sure that the permits are effective in reducing the risks. High
hazards require greater degree of monitoring.
• Permit issuers need sufficient time to check site conditions (as a minimum, at start and
completion of tasks, plus intermediate checks as appropriate), to ensure effective
implementation of the system.

Typical Uses of Permit to Work Systems

Hot Work

Hot work permits are used to control hot work where naked flames will be used (e.g. butane,
propane, or oxyacetylene torches) or where potential source of ignition will be created (e.g.
welding, grinding or fabrication work).

Typical precautions to control hot work:

• Remove all flammable items from the hot work area.
• Cover items with fire blankets where it cannot be removed
from the hot work area.
• Floors swept clean
• Wooden floors must be damped down.
• Appropriate fire extinguishers must be in place

POSHE V2| Unit IG1 – Element 3 – Managing Risks – Understanding People and Processes 55