Area Authority

Planning and risk assessment

Conduct a detailed discussion with the performing authority (PA) during the work planning stage to ensure all hazards are identified. Verify that an appropriately detailed risk assessment is completed to reduce risks to an acceptable level (ALARP). Ensure the quality of the CoW documentation by checking that the content is accurate and supplementary certificates are approved and attached.

Worksite visits and monitoring

Visit the worksite with the PA to prepare the hazard identification and risk assessment (HITRA), ensuring the PA understands the location, equipment, activities, hazards, and related controls. Attend the worksite on the initial issue of the permit, participate in toolbox talks, and authorize the work to start. Perform regular monitoring checks during each shift, particularly within the first hour of the permit's issuance.

Energy isolation and safety controls

Approve the design of energy isolation and oversee the implementation of energy isolation measures prior to the issuance of work permits. Confirm that energy isolation is in place before task initiation and demonstrate the isolation to the PA. Confirm positive isolation for hot work and confined space entry tasks. Liaise with the station SAEP to ensure that all work with electrical content is reviewed, and all associated electrical certificates and risk assessments are in place. Authorise sanction to test on agreed isolations and points. Maintain the station isolation register, monitoring work scopes and removing isolation when required or transferring to LTI.

Permit closure and worksite safety

Close permits by signing to confirm that work is completed, ensuring that the worksite is left safe, clean, and tidy. Ensure that energy isolation is removed after work completion and the cancellation of the permit.

Shift handover

Conduct a thorough handover regarding ongoing tasks during shift changes with the oncoming AA, ensuring continuity and safety.

SIMOPS coordination

Ensure that work can proceed safely with no significant impact from or to SIMOPS.

Daily meetings and continuous improvement

Attend daily permit/SIMOPS meetings to provide detailed work scopes to support the site manager (SM). Capture any lessons learned from the CoW process within WorkSafe and conduct self-verification audits.