How a permit-to-work system works in practice | Permit-to-work Steps
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PTW |
HOW A PERMIT-TO-WORK
SYSTEM WORKS IN PRACTICE | PERMIT-TO-WORK STEPS | PERMIT-TO-WORK PROCEDURE
How a permit-to-work
system works in practice
1. Identifying the
task: The first step in the permit-to-work system is to identify the
particular task that needs to be performed. This could be anything from routine
maintenance work to major construction projects, and it should be clearly
defined in order to ensure that the proper precautions are taken.
2. Risk assessment:
Once the task has been identified, a risk assessment should be performed to
identify any potential hazards that could arise during the work. This includes
both generic hazards, such as working at height or in confined spaces, as well
as any hazards specific to the task in question. The risk assessment should
also identify any control measures that may be necessary to mitigate these hazards.
3. Permit
application: Once the risk assessment is complete, the person responsible
for the task should apply for a permit to work. This involves completing a
permit form that outlines the nature of the work, the hazards identified, and
the control measures that will be implemented.
4. Permit approval:
The permit application will then be reviewed by a designated person, such as a
supervisor or safety officer, who will verify that all necessary precautions
have been taken and that the control measures are appropriate. If the permit is
approved, it will be signed and issued to the person responsible for the work.
5. Pre-work briefing:
Before work is allowed to commence, a pre-work briefing should be held to
review the details of the permit and ensure that everyone involved in the task
is aware of their roles and responsibilities. This includes not only the person
performing the work but also any other personnel who may be affected by the
work, such as other workers in the area.
6. Work completion
and sign-off: Once the work is complete, the person responsible for the
task should sign off on the permit to confirm that all of the control measures
were implemented and that the work was completed safely. The permit should then
be returned to the designated person who approved it.
7. Post-work review:
After the work is complete, a post-work review should be conducted to evaluate
the effectiveness of the permit-to-work system and identify any improvements
that could be made. This review should include feedback from all parties
involved in the work and any necessary changes should be implemented before
the next task is undertaken.
8. Ongoing monitoring
and maintenance: Once the permit-to-work process has been implemented, it
is important to regularly monitor and maintain the system to ensure that it
remains effective and up-to-date.
9. Review and update
the permit-to-work system: As new risks or hazards arise, or as changes are
made to equipment or work processes, it may be necessary to review and update
the permit-to-work system. This may involve revising standard forms, updating
procedures, providing additional training for workers, or modifying the system
to incorporate new controls or safeguards.
10. Corrective
actions: If a breach of the permit-to-work system is identified, corrective
actions should be implemented as soon as possible. This may include stopping
work, conducting an investigation, reviewing and revising procedures, providing
additional training, or disciplining workers who have violated the system.
A permit-to-work system is designed to ensure that all
necessary precautions are taken before potentially hazardous work is
undertaken. This involves identifying the task, performing a risk assessment,
applying for and approving the permit, conducting a pre-work briefing,
completing the work, signing off on the permit, and conducting a post-work
review. By following this process, employers can help to keep their workers
safe and prevent incidents and injuries on the job.
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