COMPREHENSIVE PTW
REQUIREMENT OUTLINE
In an EPC project, the Permit-to-Work (PTW) system is one of the most critical HSE control
measures to ensure that high-risk activities are carried out safely and under proper
supervision.
Below is a comprehensive PTW requirement outline you can apply:
1. Purpose of PTW
To authorize specific high-risk work.
To control hazards through proper planning, isolation, and supervision.
To ensure coordination between teams to avoid conflicts and simultaneous activity
hazards.
To maintain a record of approvals, risk controls, and work execution.
2. Work Requiring a Permit
A PTW is required for, but not limited to:
1. Hot Work
o Welding, cutting, grinding, or any work that generates sparks or heat.
o Use of open flames.
2. Confined Space Entry
o Tanks, vessels, pits, trenches, manholes.
3. Working at Heights
o Any work at ≥1.8 m (6 ft) without a permanent guardrail.
o Roof work, scaffolding, elevated platforms.
4. Electrical Work
o Live electrical maintenance.
o Isolation and energization.
o HV/LV switchgear access.
5. Lifting Operations
o Use of cranes, hoists, and other lifting equipment.
6. Excavation
o Digging, trenching, or boring.
o Underground service crossing.
7. Radiography
o X-ray or gamma ray testing.
8. Energized Systems Work
o Pressure testing, pneumatic or hydraulic systems.
9. Diving Operations (if applicable)
3. PTW Process
Step 1 – Request
Initiated by the work supervisor before the activity.
Includes scope of work, location, timing, and hazards.
Step 2 – Hazard Assessment
Perform HIRA/JSA (Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment / Job Safety Analysis).
Identify controls, PPE, isolation points, emergency arrangements.
Step 3 – Authorization
PTW approved by competent authorized persons:
o HSE Officer/Engineer
o Area Authority (Construction Manager, Site Supervisor)
o Specialist (Electrical Engineer, Lifting Supervisor, etc.)
Step 4 – Execution
Display PTW at the worksite.
Conduct toolbox talk with the team.
Ensure PPE and control measures are in place.
Step 5 – Monitoring
Work monitored continuously by a permit holder or supervisor.
Revalidation required if:
o Work scope changes.
o Shift changes.
o Weather changes.
Step 6 – Closure
Verify work completion.
Remove isolations and restore systems safely.
Close permit with sign-off from all responsible parties.
4. PTW Validity
Valid only for one shift unless otherwise specified.
Must be revalidated daily.
Separate permits for each location/task.
5. Key PTW Requirements
All PTWs must have:
o Unique permit number
o Clear description of work
o Work location
o Start/expiry time
o List of hazards and controls
o Signatures of requestor, issuer, and approvers
Permit Board at site for visibility.
PTW color coding (e.g., red for hot work, yellow for electrical, blue for confined space).
Training for permit issuers and receivers before participation.
6. Common PTW Violations to Avoid
Starting work without a valid permit.
Extending work beyond permit validity without re-approval.
Performing work outside approved scope/location.
Not using prescribed PPE.
Failure to maintain supervision.
