Posted By garyh Whoever is managing this premises, and controlling the contractors, needs to answer this question. Some organisations only ask for PTW for high hazard tasks like hot work and confined space entry. However PTW also (if used properly) prompts a consideration of hazards, precautions and control measures etc. It also hands control of an area over and back again, and enables control of multiple activities. The complexity of the systems should reflect the hazards and risks of the environment. Some environments won't use a PTW at all - some environments (eg Refinery, Oil rig) would have a PTW for ALL maintenance tasks. In short, it's down to the responsible person to make a decision - this means you need a policy / procedure, with which there should be no arguments with. Hope this helps.

Posted By TonyB Hi Tim, Although I a agree in the main with the above, I do differ slightly. PTW should only be used for high risk, non-routine activities and should apply equally to your employees as they do to contractors. The term PTW is generally accepted as 'ring fenced' with a specific meaning, i.e. the term shouldn't be used for other types of documentation like an authorisation to work (which is how many organisations use them). One of the major concerns with PTW is there over use. This devalues them, and as a result they become just part of the paperwork. The guidance is now published by the HSE, but directly taken from the Offshore industry. However, the general principles are exactly the same for all workplaces. ref: HSG 250 - Guidance on Permit-To-Work Systems - A Guide for the Petroleum, Chemical and Allied Industries Cheers Tony

Posted By Tim Thanks very much for the prompt replies. As always this forum has been very helpful and a great source of knowledge. Tim