Permit to Work Major Hazard Standard - MIRMgate

WMC Environment, Health & Safety Management System 

Permit to Work 

Major Hazard Standard 

MHS-07 

DocsOpen Ref: 155520, 23/12/2003 

Uncontrolled copy – check web for latest revision 

Revision Reviewed Description of Changes Date Approved 

2 D Batchler Revised to incorporate Confined Spaces, Hot Work etc 23/12/2003 P Plavina 

1 A Barfield Revised Isolations Standard 17/10/2001 P Plavina 

0 First Issue of Isolations Standard 12/07/2000 K Thomas 

© WMC Resources Ltd 

WMC has developed this document for internal use, specific to circumstances and conditions within its operations. It is 

intended to provide general information and its applicability to external parties may therefore be limited. WMC makes no 

representations as to the applicability of the information for use by any party other than WMC and should not be relied 

upon as such. WMC provides no representation or warranty as to safety or business outcomes arising from application 

of this document and its requirements by third parties.

EHS 

MS 

WMC EHS Management System Major Hazard Standard 


CONTENTS 

1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE.....................................................................................................4 

1.1 Purpose ..............................................................................................................................4 

1.2 Scope .................................................................................................................................4 

2 GENERAL ...........................................................................................................................4 

3 DOCUMENT STRUCTURE.................................................................................................5 

4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW..........................................................................................................5 

5 TRAINING AND COMPETENCY ........................................................................................6 

6 MONITORING AND AUDITS ..............................................................................................6 

7 WORK PERMIT PROCESS ................................................................................................6 

7.1 Scope of Work....................................................................................................................6 

7.2 Hazard Identification and Assessment ...............................................................................7 

7.3 Work Permit Document Preparation ...................................................................................7 

7.4 Workplace Preparation .......................................................................................................8 

7.5 Work Permit Issue and Acceptance....................................................................................8 

7.5.1 Work Permits..........................................................................................................8 

7.5.2 Work Permits with a Block Isolation .......................................................................8 

7.6 Work Progression ...............................................................................................................9 

7.6.1 Work Commencement............................................................................................9 

7.6.2 Shift Handover........................................................................................................9 

7.6.3 Work Permit Relinquishment ..................................................................................9 

7.6.4 Scope of Work Change ........................................................................................10 

7.6.5 Work Permit Suspension ...................................................................................... 10 

7.6.6 Testing..................................................................................................................10 

7.7 Work Permit Hand-back ................................................................................................... 10 

8 RESPONSIBILITIES .........................................................................................................11 

8.1 Permit Issuer .................................................................................................................... 11 

8.2 Isolator.............................................................................................................................. 12 

8.3 Isolation Checker..............................................................................................................12 

8.4 Service Provider / Permit Requestor ................................................................................ 12 

8.5 Permit Acceptor................................................................................................................12 

8.6 Work Team Member......................................................................................................... 13 

8.7 Site General Manager ...................................................................................................... 13 

9 REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................13 

WMC-EHS-MHS-007 DocsOpen Ref : 155520 Issued: 23/12/03 Page 2 of 59

EHS 

MS 



10 TABLE 1............................................................................................................................15 

Guide for When a Work Permit is Required............................................................................. 15 

APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................16 

A PERMIT TO WORK – OVERVIEW FLOWCHART........................................................... 17 

B WORK PERMIT................................................................................................................ 18 

C WORK PERMIT REGISTER ............................................................................................ 20 

D1 ISOLATION PROCEDURE .............................................................................................. 21 

D2 ISOLATION CERTIFICATE.............................................................................................. 27 

E1 SAFE WORKING IN CONFINED SPACE PROCEDURE ................................................ 28 

E2 CONFINED SPACE ENTRY CERTIFICATE .................................................................... 37 

E3 REAR OF CONFINED SPACE CERTIFICATE ................................................................ 38 

E4 CONFINED SPACE ENTRY/EXIT LOG............................................................................. 39 

E5 CONFINED SPACE WORK AUTHORISATION TAG....................................................... 40 

E6 CONFINED SPACE EVALUATION.................................................................................. 41 

F1 HOT WORK PROCEDURE.............................................................................................. 45 

F2 HOT WORK CERTIFICATE ............................................................................................. 49 

F3 FIRE WATCH SIGN OFF/ON ( rear of Hot work certificate)............................................. 50 

F4 HOT WORK- WORK AUTHORISATION TAG.................................................................. 51 

G1 RADIATION PROCEDURE .............................................................................................. 52 

G2 RADIATION PROCESS - FLOWCHART.......................................................................... 54 

G3 RADIATION CERTIFICATE ............................................................................................. 55 

H1 EXCAVATION PROCEDURE........................................................................................... 56 

H2 EXCAVATION CERTIFICATE.......................................................................................... 58 

H3 EXCAVATION – FLOWCHART........................................................................................ 59 




1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE 

1.1 Purpose 

This Standard details the requirements of the 

Permit to Work System for application at all 

WMC Resources owned and operated sites. 

The purpose is to: 

• Authorise and control high-risk work 

designated as requiring a ‘Work Permit’ 

• Provide a process for competent 

personnel to authorise progress of highrisk 

work 

• Ensure that all hazards are identified and 

that appropriate controls are in place and 

communicated prior to work commencing 

• Provide a formal hand-over process to 

acknowledge that all hazards have been 

addressed 

• Ensure that personnel carrying out the 

work are aware of the exact scope of 

work and the hazard controls required 

• Ensure the impact of work on other tasks 

and the Operations is understood 

• Provide a formal hand-back process to 

ensure the work area is safe to return to 

normal duties when the work is 

completed 

• Provide a process for controlling the 

safety of specific types of work that, due 

to circumstances, have been classified 

as lower risk work (e.g. some Hot Work 

and Confined Space inspection activities) 

• Provide a record of a safe system of 

work. 

1.2 Scope 

This Standard defines a comprehensive Permit 

to Work System. This document includes 

Appendices that describe particular hazard 

controls and other requirements that need to 

be considered when establishing work controls 

for designated high-risk work activities. This 

set of high-risk work activities includes: 

• Intrusive work on systems containing 

energy (Appendix D1) 

• Working in a Confined Space (Appendix 

E1) 

• Hot Work (Appendix F1) 

• Working with or near Radiation Sources 

(Appendix G1) 

• Excavation Tasks (Appendix H1). 

Not all work in these areas will be designated 

as high-risk and require a Work Permit. The 

site is required to establish criteria that allows 

personnel to judge when a Work Permit is 

required versus alternative work controls. 

The specific requirements for working at 

heights is covered in Major Hazard Standard 

08 Safe Work at Height. 

Similarly there may be other activities deriving 

from risk assessment processes that will need 

a Work Permit. Typical examples of additional 

high-risk work are working with mineral fibres 

and removal of grid mesh/platform walkways in 

operational areas. 

2 GENERAL 

The Permit to Work System describes a 

rigorous process for managing designated 

high-risk work. 




Not all high-risk work requires a Work Permit. 

For instance risk assessment can lead to a low 

risk designation for inspection of certain 

confined spaces and some hot work activities. 

For such examples, this Standard provides for 

a simplified process of safe work authorisation 

through the use of appropriate stand-alone 

‘Work Authorisation’ tags. In all cases the use 

of a Work Authorisation shall require a formal 

risk assessment confirming the application of 

the tag and the availability of a THA or 

Standard Work Procedure. This simplified 

process is covered in respective Appendices 

E1 and F1. 

Table 1 provides general guidance on when a 

Work Permit is required. 

Reference to this table can be made, as a 

guide for each site to decide and document 

which types of high-risk work requires a Work 

Permit. This analysis shall be formal and 

consider the type of activity as well as different 

geographical areas of the site in which the 

activity takes place. The results of this process 

shall be effectively communicated to provide 

clarity to those personnel required to decide 

whether a Work Permit is required to progress 

work. 

All work that does not require the higher level 

of rigour that a Work Permit provides shall be 

carried out using the Take Time, Take Charge 

(TTTC) process, a Task Hazard Analysis 

(THA), Standard Work Procedure (SWP) or the 

use of a Work Authorisation tag, or 

combinations of these as appropriate. 

3 DOCUMENT STRUCTURE 

The Permit to Work System encompasses the 

following core documents: 

• A Work Permit 

• Certificates for designated high-risk 

work: 

- Isolation of energy (including 

reference to High Voltage work 

under SP 25 Procedures) 

- Confined Space Entry 

- Hot Work 

- Radiation 

- Excavation. 

Note: Certificates are documents that 

define the core preparations required for 

work to proceed and do not, by 

themselves, authorise work to proceed. 

They cannot stand-alone and shall 

always be accompanied by a covering 

Work Permit. 

• Work Authorisation tags for inspection of 

low risk Confined Spaces and performing 

low risk hot work. These tags can standalone 

• Work Permit Register when using a 

Block Isolation. 

4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW 

Core functions of the Permit to Work System 

are summarised in Flow Chart Appendix A. 

Following the identification of a work need and 

the definition of a scope of work an 

assessment of the hazard controls required to 

ensure safe work should be conducted. 

If this analysis leads to a decision to initiate the 

full Permit to Work process, the following core 

activities shall take place: 

• Initial preparation of the Work Permit 

(this process is managed by the Service 

Provider) 

• Final agreement to the required hazard 

controls and completion of all Work 

Permit documentation (this process is 

managed by equipment/plant owner) 

• Implementation of agreed hazard 

controls by authorised personnel 

• Authorisation and issue of the Work 

Permit by the Permit Issuer to a 

representative of the work team (Permit 

Acceptor). This is the hand-over process. 




• The Permit Acceptor ensures the work 

team understands the extent of hazard 

controls in place and assumes control of 

work activities for the duration of work. 

The Work Permit hazard controls shall 

remain in place whilst work is in 

progress. 

• When the agreed work is complete the 

Permit Acceptor leaves the work site 

clean and safe and hands back the Work 

Permit to the Permit Issuer. 

• The Permit Issuer resumes control over 

the equipment / plant and progresses the 

removal of any temporary hazard 

controls established for the task before 

returning to normal operations. 

5 TRAINING AND COMPETENCY 

Structured competency-based training shall be 

given to all users of the Permit to Work 

System. Competency shall be reassessed at a 

maximum interval of two years. 

Standardised training modules shall be 

established for the following: 

• Permit Issuer 

• Isolator (including Isolation Checker) 

• Permit Acceptor 

• Confined Space Entry 

• Confined Space Stand-by Person 

• Hot Work and Fire Safety (including Fire 

Watch) 

• Work Team Member. 

Permit Issuers and Isolators require detailed 

knowledge of the area in which they are 

issuing permits or carrying out isolations. Such 

knowledge shall be achieved as a prerequisite 

to gaining Permit to Work competencies. 

Competency records for all personnel shall be 

maintained on a site register and the extent of 

specific competency for individuals shall be 

clearly known to users of the Permit to Work 

System. 

6 MONITORING AND AUDITS 

It is a requirement of the Permit to Work 

System that Permit Issuers, or a competent 

delegate, perform regular inspections of active 

Work Permits in the work site. The frequency 

and degree of detail included in this inspection 

should be based on the level of risk and 

complexity of the task being performed. The 

inspection shall include: 

• Review of the Work Permit 

documentation 

• Confirmation that the actual work being 

performed is consistent with the defined 

hazard controls in place. This does not 

require a detailed knowledge of the 

technical aspects of work being done. 

• Confirmation that the hazard controls 

defined in the Work Permit remain in 

place. 

Each site shall conduct regular (at least 

quarterly) compliance audits of the Permit to 

Work System. 

A person independent of the area in which 

Work Permits are issued shall carry out a 

compliance audit of the over-all functioning of 

the Permit to Work System at least annually. 

7 WORK PERMIT PROCESS 

Effective work planning and risk assessment 

processes are essential to the smooth and 

safe execution of the Permit to Work System. 

7.1 Scope of Work 

For any potentially hazardous work activity 

there shall be a clearly defined Scope of Work 

(SOW). This SOW shall: 

• Be defined by the Service Provider in 

consultation as appropriate with a Permit 

Issuer (or another equipment / plant 

owner representative) 

• Enable identification of all hazards 




• Be used to determine resource 

requirements (people, materials etc.) and 

estimated time to complete the task 

• Enable identification of which particular 

hazard control(s) is most appropriate (i.e. 

Work Permits / Certificates, Work 

Authorisation tags, Standard Work 

Procedures or THA). 

7.2 Hazard Identification and Assessment 

Using the scope of work as a basis, the 

Service Provider shall make the initial 

identification of hazards associated with 

conducting the work and determine necessary 

controls. Assistance in developing this can be 

sought from the Permit Issuer or their 

representative. 

Tools used to identify necessary hazard 

controls will vary according to the risk 

exposure and range from application of TTTC 

to use of a THA and other risk assessments. 

Some hazard controls will be defined in a 

Standard Work Procedure and other work 

defined to be at the high-risk exposure level 

will require the increased level of rigour of a 

Work Permit and associated Certificates. 

The site criteria established for deciding when 

a Work Permit is required (see guidance in 

Table 1) shall be used to help in this process. 

Work that is determined to be low risk 

inspection of certain confined spaces or low 

risk hot work shall proceed with the use of 

Work Authorisation Tags as described in 

respective Appendices E1 and F1. 

Work that is determined as not requiring a 

Work Permit or a Work Authorisation Tag shall 

proceed with appropriate use of TTTC / THA / 

Standard Work Procedure controls and 

processes. 

• The Service Provider confirms that a 

THA(s) or Standard Work Procedure(s) is 

available for the defined scope of work 

• A final assessment of the number of 

Work Permits/Certificates required for the 

particular scope of work shall be 

conducted. Issues to be considered are: 

- The degree of confidence that the 

scope of work is complete 

- Whether multiple crews will work 

under a common Work Permit (see 

reference following) 

- If a Block Isolation is applicable 

(see section 7.5.2) 

- If Testing or jogging is applicable 

(see section 7.6.6). 

• Work Permits shall be specific to the 

scope of work. Generally they are raised 

for discrete tasks and do not span 

several different work crews or unrelated 

tasks. However, a Work Permit can be 

raised for multi-disciplined crews 

conducting different work on the same 

equipment in the same geographical 

area, in certain circumstances. For 

example crews working on a autoclave, a 

bank of flotation cells or a conveyor 

system with little potential impact on 

other work activities can be covered 

under one Work Permit. Separate THA’s 

or Standard Work Procedures would 

cover each of the different tasks. (Note 

that the Permit Acceptor shall accept this 

Work Permit on behalf of all separate 

work crews and must fulfil all of the 

normal accountabilities of the Acceptor). 

7.3 Work Permit Document Preparation 

If a decision is taken that a Work Permit is 

required to authorise progress of defined work, 

the following shall occur: 




• Using a full knowledge of the scope of 

work and hazard controls necessary to 

complete the work, the Service Provider 

should commence filling out the first two 

Sections of the Work Permit and submit 

to the Permit Issuer (see Appendix B 

Work Permit form). This is best done as 

a consultative process between the 

Service Provider and the Permit Issuer 

(or other equipment/plant owner 

representative). 

• The Permit Issuer shall review the Work 

Permit request (including the THA) and 

agree the final set of hazard controls. 

The Permit Issuer can include additional 

controls as appropriate. 

• If the planned work incorporates any 

“change” (as defined in the EHS 

Management System Standard #5 

Management of Change) the Permit 

Issuer shall confirm with the Service 

Provider that a ‘Change Management 

Plan’ has been implemented. The Permit 

Issuer is not accountable for the 

management of the change management 

process, simply confirming that a change 

implementation plan is in place if 

required. If the ‘Change’ has not been 

signed off, the Permit Issuer shall refer 

the Work Permit request back to the 

Service Provider. 

• The Permit Issuer shall complete the 

necessary Work Permit document 

preparation (including any Work Permit 

Certificates) ensuring that all hazards 

due to workplace interactions or unique 

aspects are identified and controls 

indicated. 

7.4 Workplace Preparation 

The Permit Issuer shall initiate implementation 

of the workplace hazard controls as identified 

in the Work Permit and Certificates. 

Hazard controls identified on the Work 

Permit/Certificates shall be carried out 

according to the requirements in their 

respective Appendices D1 to H1. Authorised 

personnel shall establish these preparations. 

7.5 Work Permit Issue and Acceptance 

7.5.1 Work Permits 

The Permit Issuer shall confirm that all defined 

hazard controls have been established and 

that authorised signatories have completed 

Certificate requirements. 

The Permit Issuer shall confirm that the 

workplace is safe to commence work. This 

may involve a physical check of the work 

environment by the Permit Issuer or 

confirmation via a competent source. 

The Permit Issuer shall brief the Permit 

Acceptor (Service provider’s representative for 

the work team) on the hazard controls in place. 

The Permit Issuer shall sign the Work Permit 

Authorisation section of the Work Permit (Note: 

the Permit Issuer shall not act as Permit 

Acceptor for the same Work Permit). 

Once the Permit Acceptor understands the 

hazard controls in place they shall sign the 

Permit Acceptance section of the Work Permit 

and take the original copy of all permit 

documentation (including any Certificates and 

THA/SWP) to the work site. 

The Work Permit original and associated 

documentation shall be clearly displayed in the 

Permit Control Board (see Section 7 of 

Appendix D1) at the work site. 

A duplicate copy of the Work Permit shall be 

retained in the Permit Office as a record of a 

‘live’ permit. 

7.5.2 Work Permits with a Block Isolation 

When a number of different tasks are being 

completed under separate Work Permits with 

all tasks sharing the same Isolation Certificate, 

the isolation is called a Block Isolation (see 

Appendix D1 Section 4). 




All Work Permits associated with a Block 

Isolation shall be recorded on a Work Permit 

Register by the Permit Issuer and signed on 

when issued and off when the Work Permit is 

closed (see Work Permit Register in Appendix 

C). 

No de-isolation of any points within the Block 

Isolation shall commence until all Work Permits 

have been signed off on the Work Permit 

Register by the Permit Issuer. 

Note: If a Testing Program is in place for any 

one of the Work Permits under a Block 

Isolation then all work shall cease and the 

procedure as defined in Section 9 of Appendix 

D1 followed. 

7.6 Work Progression 

7.6.1 Work Commencement 

The Permit Acceptor shall brief the work team 

about the hazard controls already in place and 

any additional controls required for the job. 

The THA and Work Permit shall be used as a 

basis for this briefing. As part of this process 

the THA shall be given a final review 

The Permit Acceptor seeks to clarify any 

issues team members have about the hazard 

controls in place and asks them to sign onto 

the Work Permit to acknowledge the fact that 

they have been briefed, they understand the 

hazard controls in place and will comply with 

the requirements. 

The Permit Acceptor checks that controls are 

maintained during work progress. If any 

conditions are breached, all work shall cease 

and the Permit Acceptor shall refer the matter 

to the Permit Issuer. 

If the Permit Acceptor accepts multiple Work 

Permits they should not perform tasks as a 

working team member under any one of the 

Work Permits. 

Note: When energies are isolated as part of 

hazard controls, each work team member shall 

also attach their Personal Danger Tag with a 

lock to the Permit Control Board, as per the 

requirements of Appendix D1 – Isolations. 

7.6.2 Shift Handover 

If work covered by a Work Permit proceeds 

from one work shift to another, the following 

shall occur: 

• The off going Permit Acceptor shall 

check that all work team members 

remove their Personal Danger Tag if 

energies are isolated 

• A formal handover occurs between the 

off going and the new Permit Acceptor 

with respective signatures being 

recorded on the Work Permit. During this 

handover the new Permit Acceptor is 

briefed on the hazard controls in place 

and the status of work 

• An informal handover between the off 

going and new Permit Issuer shall occur 

• The new shift Permit Acceptor seeks to 

clarify any issues team members have 

about the hazard controls in place and 

asks them to sign onto the Work Permit 

to acknowledge their understanding and 

acceptance to comply with requirements. 

7.6.3 Work Permit Relinquishment 

If a face-to-face handover from the off going to 

the new Permit Acceptor is not possible, then 

the following shall occur: 

• The off going Permit Acceptor checks 

that all work team members have 

removed their Personal Danger Tag if 

energies are isolated 

• The Permit Acceptor shall return the 

Permit Control Board to the Permit Issuer 

and provide a formal brief on work status 

and sign off in the ‘Change of Permit 

Acceptor’ section of Work Permit 

• The receiving Permit Issuer shall sign in 

the ‘Relinquishment to Permit Issuer’ 

section of the Work Permit and indicate 

the reason 




• The off going / new Permit Issuers carry 

out a face-to-face hand over with a full 

brief on hazard controls in place and the 

general work status 

• When the new shift Permit Acceptor is 

available the new Permit Issuer shall 

provide a face-to-face briefing on the 

hazard controls in place and re-issue the 

Work Permit by signing as the issuing 

Permit Issuer in the ‘Relinquishment to 

Permit Issuer’ section. The Permit 

Acceptor accepts by signing in the 

‘Change of Permit Acceptor’ section of 

Work Permit. 

• The new shift Permit Acceptor shall brief 

the work team members and ask them to 

sign onto the Work Permit prior to 

commencing work. 

7.6.4 Scope of Work Change 

If the scope of work changes during work 

progress the Permit Acceptor shall consult 

their line supervisor and the Permit Issuer as 

necessary and together consider the impact of 

the proposed changes on the existing hazard 

controls in place and the potential for additional 

hazards. The THA shall be reviewed as part of 

this process. 

If this analysis indicates a need to change an 

existing Work Permit condition or the need for 

additional controls and the newly defined work 

is ready to commence, all work shall cease. 

The Permit Acceptor shall return the Work 

Permit to the Permit Issuer and indicate the 

scope of work change (the change is 

highlighted in Scope of Work section of Permit) 

and request any additional hazard controls. 

The Permit Issuer shall vet the request for 

additional controls and initiate implementation 

as necessary. These are recorded / added to 

the existing Work Permit and highlighted. 

When all additional hazard control preparations 

have been completed the Permit Issuer shall 

sign and date all changes made on the Work 

Permit. Authorisation is then provided to the 

Permit Acceptor for work to proceed. 

The Permit Acceptor shall take Permit 

documents to the worksite, brief the work team 

members on any changed hazard controls and 

indicate that it is safe to return to work. 

7.6.5 Work Permit Suspension 

If there is a need to suspend work for a 

number of shifts due to delays in material or 

resource availability the following shall occur: 

• Permit Acceptor leaves the worksite in a 

safe state, returns the Permit Control 

Board and associated documentation to 

the Permit Issuer with a briefing on 

reason for suspension and signs off the 

Work Permit 

• The Permit Issuer signs in the 

‘Relinquishment to Permit Issuer’ section 

of Work Permit and records the reason 

for suspension 

• When the Work Permit is required to be 

re-instated the, Permit Issuer arranges 

for an Isolation Checker to revalidate the 

isolations and sign the original Isolation 

Certificate 

• The Permit Issuer shall re-issue the Work 

Permit by signing in the ‘Relinquishment 

to Permit Issuer’ section of the Work 

Permit. 

7.6.6 Testing 

When energies are isolated and there is a 

need to carry out testing or re-positioning of 

equipment during work progress and 

temporary removal of isolations is required, 

reference should be made to Appendix D1 

Section 9. 

7.7 Work Permit Hand-back 

When work defined in the scope of work is 

complete or there is a requirement to close the 

Work Permit, the following shall occur: 

• The Permit Acceptor ensures the work 

site is left in a clean and safe state 




• If energies have been isolated, all work 

team members shall remove their 

Personal Danger Tags 

• The Permit Acceptor shall return the 

Work Permit/documentation and Permit 

Control Board to the Permit Issuer and 

indicate that the work is complete and 

the equipment is fit to be returned to 

work or alternately, whether there are 

any restrictions on its use 

• The Permit Acceptor shall sign the hand 

back section of the Work Permit 

• The Permit Issuer shall assemble all of 

the Work Permit documentation and 

initiate the removal of hazard controls 

originally installed for the work to take 

place 

• In the case of work done in a confined 

space the Permit Issuer shall inspect the 

confined space to ensure that removal of 

isolations and closure can proceed 

• Once the work environment status has 

been returned to a state of readiness for 

return to normal duties, the Permit Issuer 

shall sign the permit closure section of 

the Work Permit on both original and 

duplicate copy 

• The Permit Issuer shall file the Work 

Permit original and associated 

certificates in compliance with WMC 

Resources document retention policy. 

8 RESPONSIBILITIES 

The following general roles have been 

identified within the Permit to Work System. 

Specific other roles have been identified and 

described in respective Appendices. 

8.1 Permit Issuer 

Competency required: 

• A detailed knowledge of the work 

environment and the process and area 

related hazards 

• A competent knowledge of the isolation 

requirements for specific plant or 

equipment i.e. competent as an Isolator 

• A competent knowledge of the Permit to 

Work System. 

Is responsible for: 

• Reviewing the Work Permit request from 

the Service Provider and agreeing the 

final set of hazard controls for the 

defined scope of work 

• Verifying that a change implementation 

plan has been implemented for 

‘Management of Change’ initiatives 

covered by the Work Permit 

• Initiating implementation of the Work 

Permit hazard controls defined in 

Certificates. When isolations are 

involved, develop the Isolation 

Certificate/Instruction for the specific 

scope of work 

• Maintaining control over the isolated 

equipment (through control of isolation 

padlocks) 

• Confirming that all agreed hazard 

controls have been implemented and all 

necessary documentation signed off by 

authorised personnel 

• Confirming that the work site is safe for 

work and that any operational activities 

do not compromise safety in the work 

area 

• Briefing the Permit Acceptor on the 

hazard controls that have been put in 

place 

• Authorising issue of the Work Permit 

• Managing the Permit Issuer’s lock and 

key cabinet (see Appendix D1 for details) 

• Being aware of the work being carried 

out and any interactions from adjacent 

work activities or hazards 

• Ensuring routine inspections of the work 

environment are carried out 




• Ensuring copies of all Work Permits are 

maintained in the Permit Office 

• Handing-over the control of active Work 

Permits to a new shift Permit Issuer 

• Initiating removal of hazard controls 

following hand back of the Work Permit 

• Authorising closure of the Work Permit 

by signing off on both original and 

duplicate copies of the Work Permit 

• Filing Work Permit documentation 

originals in compliance with WMC 

Resources document retention policy. 

8.2 Isolator 


• Maintaining a technical and / or 

legislative ability to be able to perform 

and prove isolations 

• A competent knowledge of the isolation 

requirements for specific plant or 

equipment 

• A general knowledge of the Permit to 

Work System and a competent 

knowledge of the Isolations Procedure. 


• Establishing isolations of plant or 

equipment according to the Isolation 

Certificate/Instruction to prevent 

inadvertent re-energisation which may 

cause injury to others or damage to plant 

or equipment 

Note: In the situation in which the Permit 

Issuer performs the role of the Isolation 

Checker, the Isolator shall confirm that 

the Permit Issuer defined Isolation 

Certificate/Instruction is appropriate for 

the defined scope of work. 

• De-isolating equipment according to 

Permit Issuer requirements. 

8.3 Isolation Checker 


• Achieving the competency of an Isolator. 


• Confirming that the Permit Issuer defined 

Isolation Certificate / Isolation Instruction 

is appropriate for the defined scope of 

work 

• Validating that isolation of energies has 

been completed according to the 

requirements of the Isolation 

Certificate/Isolation Instruction and the 

Isolation Procedure. 

8.4 Service Provider / Permit Requestor 


• A knowledge of the Permit to Work 

System 

• Understanding the work planning 

processes. 


• Developing a clear scope of work 

• Making the initial determination of hazard 

controls required for work to proceed and 

initiating Work Permit documentation. 

8.5 Permit Acceptor 


• A competent knowledge of the work to be 

completed as per the scope of work 

• A knowledge of the Permit to Work 

System 

• A competent knowledge of requirements 

for Certificates that they will accept. 


• Signing the permit acceptance on the 

Work Permit once they understand the 

extent of hazard controls that have been 

established 

• Retaining the original of Work Permit 

documentation in the Permit Control 

Board at the work site 




• Briefing the work site team on the hazard 

controls in place and reviewing the THA 

• Ensuring each work team member signs 

on to the Work Permit (and attach their 

Personal Danger Tag if energies 

isolated) 

• Ensuring that work remains within the 

defined scope of work 

• Ceasing work and informing the Permit 

Issuer when any hazard controls have 

been breached 

• Handing over the work activity and Work 

Permit to a new Permit Acceptor at shift 

change or during work progress as 

necessary 

• Relinquishing and suspending a Work 

Permit as required 

• Inspecting the work site before 

commencing/recommencing work at end 

of shift or completion of work 

• Confirming that the work site is left in a 

clean and safe state when work is 

completed 

• Checking that all work team members 

remove their Personal Danger Tags 

when work is complete, if isolations have 

been involved 

• When work is complete, returning the 

Work Permit documentation and the 

Permit Control Board to the Permit 

Issuer, providing a briefing on the status 

of work and signing off the Work Permit. 

8.6 Work Team Member 


• Having a general understanding of the 

site Permit to Work System 

• Completed a successful Area Induction. 


• Understanding the job scope of work and 

the hazard controls that have been 

implemented for the defined work 

• Participating in the review or 

development of the job THA 

• Signing on to the Work Permit and, if 

applicable, attaching their Personal 

Danger Tag to the lock box within the 

Permit Control Board 

• Ensuring that hazard controls defined in 

the Work Permit/Certificates are strictly 

followed 

• Leaving a clean and safe work site 

• If isolations are involved, removing their 

Personal Danger Tag when work is 

completed. 

8.7 Site General Manager 


• Authorising the implementation of this 

Permit to Work Standard across the site 

• Approving the criteria for determining 

what work requires a Work Permit 

• Approving the necessary competencies 

for personnel fulfilling Permit to Work 

roles. 

9 REFERENCES 

AS2865 

AS1596 

AS1940 

AS2430 

Safe Working in Confined Space 

SAA LPG Code 

SAA Flammable & Combustible 

Liquids Code 

Classification of Hazardous Areas 

AS1674 Safety in Welding & Applied 

Processes 

AS6124 Electrical Apparatus for use in the 

Presence of Combustible Dusts 

AS2275 Combustible Gas Detection 

Instruments for use in Explosive 

Atmospheres 

Radiation Safety Act 1975-79 

Radiation Safety (Transport of 




Radioactive Substances) 

Regulations 1992 and various 

conditions imposed by the 

Radiological Council 

SP 25 High Voltage and Access 

Procedures 

EHS MS Management Standard #5 – 

Management of Change 




10 TABLE 1 

Guide for When a Work Permit is Required 

Note: Each site shall decide and document which types of high-risk work require a Work 

Permit. This analysis shall be risk based and consider the type of activity as well as 

different geographical areas of the site in which the activity takes place. 

• Tasks requiring level 2 isolation 

• Work in Confined Spaces 

• Work with High Voltage equipment 

WORK PERMIT REQUIRED 

• Hot work in Classified Areas (Class 1, Zone 0 and 1) 

• When isolating safety control systems or devices 

• All work on ionising radiation sources and working within 1 metre of radiation source (dosage based 

assessment. For example, work in areas or with products that emit natural radiation are excluded) 

• Excavation greater than 300mm in vicinity of buried services 

The following general criteria is provided to assist sites in deciding what other work requires a Work 

Permit: 

• Work at heights 

• Work in designated areas 

• Work with special hazards 

• Whenever swinging blanks or blinds in hazardous systems 

• Work of high complexity 

• Work involving inexperienced personnel. 




APPENDICES 

APPENDIX A 

APPENDIX B 

APPENDIX C 

APPENDIX D1 

APPENDIX D2 

APPENDIX E1 

APPENDIX E2 

APPENDIX E3 

APPENDIX E4 

APPENDIX F1 

APPENDIX F2 

APPENDIX F3 

APPENDIX G1 

APPENDIX G2 

APPENDIX G3 

APPENDIX H1 

APPENDIX H2 

APPENDIX H3 

PERMIT TO WORK – OVERVIEW FLOWCHART 

WORK PERMIT FORM 

WORK PERMIT REGISTER 

ISOLATION PROCEDURE 

ISOLATION CERTIFICATE 

SAFE WORKING IN CONFINED SPACE PROCEDURE 

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY CERTIFICATE 

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY WORK AUTHORISATION TAG 

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY EVALUATION 

HOT WORK PROCEDURE 

HOT WORK CERTIFICATE 

HOT WORK – WORK AUTHORISATION TAG 

RADIATION PROCEDURE 

RADIATION – FLOWCHART 

RADIATION CERTIFICATE 

EXCAVATION PROCEDURE 

EXCAVATION CERTIFICATE 

EXCAVATION – FLOWCHART 




APPENDIX A 

A PERMIT TO WORK – OVERVIEW FLOWCHART 

Work need 

identified 

Scope of Work 

developed 

including 

identification of 

hazards 

Area made clean 

and safe 

Work complete 

Permit Acceptor 

instructs team to 

remove their PDT / 

lock (if applicable) 

Permit Acceptor returns 

Permit Control Board 

and briefs Permit Issuer 

No 

Is a Work Permit 

required? 

Carry out work 

using TTTC, Work 

Authorisation Tag 

or THA / SWP 

tools 

Yes 

Hazard controls 

remain in place 

during work 

progress 

Permit Acceptor signs 

off Work Permit 

Agree safe work 

precautions and 

prepare permit 

documents 

Work commences 

Permit Issuer ensures 

all temporary hazard 

controls removed 

Implement 

workplace hazard 

controls 

Workteam signs onto 


Workteam attaches PDT 

to Lock box (if isolations 

involved) 

Permit Issuer closes 


Permit Issuer 

Briefs Permit 

Acceptor on 

hazard controls 

Permit Acceptor 

briefs workteam 

(ie. no briefing, no 

work) 

Equipment 

available for 

normal duty 

Work Permit and 

any associated 

certificates issued 




APPENDIX B 

B 

WORK PERMIT 

WORK PERMIT 

No: 

Plant / Area : 

Equipment Description: 

Scope of Work: 

Equipment No.: 

Work Permit Register No.: 

THA / SWP No.: 

NO WORK OUTSIDE OF THIS SCOPE MAY BE PERFORMED UNDER THIS PERMIT 

SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS AND CONDITIONS 

Work Permit certificates Y/N Number Y/N Number 

Isolation 

Excavation 

Confined Space Entry 

Radiation 

Hot Work 

Testing Program 

Plant Change Applicable ------------- 

Any other conditions 

Work Permit Authorisation 

I acknowledge that all preparatory work has been completed and that work is safe to proceed. 

Permit Issuer: 

Signature: 

Date: 

Time: 

I fully understand the hazard controls in place for this work to proceed. 

Permit Acceptor: 

Signature: 

Date: 

Time: 

Work Permit Closure 

I confirm that the work is complete and the work environment is in a clean and safe state. 

Permit Acceptor: 

Signature: 

Date: 

Time: 

I have confirmed that work is complete and the job site is safe to return to normal duty. 

Permit Issuer: 

Signature: 

Date: 

Time: 

AUTHORITY TRANSFER, WORKER SIGN ON REQUIREMENTS ON REAR OF THIS FORM 




WORK PERMIT SIGNATURES (Reverse of Work Permit) 

CHANGE OF PERMIT ACCEPTOR: 

I confirm that the hazard controls as stated on this Work Permit and attached documents will be strictly 

observed and all persons in my work team will be informed of them 

Dat 

e 

SIGN ON 

SIGN OFF 

Time Name Initials Date Time Name Initials 

RELINQUISHMENT TO PERMIT ISSUER 

All work has ceased and Work Permit returned to Permit Issuer for subsequent re-issue 

Receiving Permit Issuer 

Re-Issuing Permit Issuer 

Date: Name: Initial: Date: Name: Initial: 

Reason: 

Reason: 


Reason: 

Reason: 


Reason: 

Reason: 

WORK TEAM MEMBER: 

I have read, fully understand and will comply with all conditions stated on this Work Permit 

SIGN ON 

SIGN ON 

Date Name Initials Date Name Initials 




APPENDIX C 

C WORK PERMIT REGISTER 

WORK PERMIT REGISTER 


Overall Scope of Work: 

No: 

Isolation Certificate No. (Block Isolation): 

WORK PERMITS UNDER THIS BLOCK ISOLATION 

No. Work Permit No. 

Work Commences 


Work Completed 


Date Name Initial Date Name Initial 

Register Closure 

Permit Issuer: Signature: Date: Time: 




APPENDIX D1 

D1 ISOLATION PROCEDURE 

PURPOSE AND SCOPE 

The purpose of this Procedure is to minimise risk of injuries from an uncontrolled release of energy. It 

forms an integral part of the Permit to Work System and shall be read in conjunction with the 

requirements of the preceding section of this Standard. 

Isolation is the act of ceasing the flow of energy and installing a hard barrier to maintain integrity of 

isolation. This procedure covers isolation and removal of the hard barriers when work is completed. It 

does not cover the process of reinstating energies following work completion. This forms part of a 

recommissioning process and outside of the scope of this procedure. 

This Procedure applies to: 

• All work with a risk of a hazardous release of energy 

• Fixed and mobile equipment (including design, construction, commissioning, operation, 

maintenance, cleaning, modification or demolition of equipment) 

• WMC Resources owned or controlled sites 

DETAILS 

1. Levels of Isolation 

This Procedure addresses two levels of isolation to cater for the wide variation in complexity of plant 

and equipment. These are: 

Level 1 – Non-recorded isolation 

Level 2 – Recorded isolation 

Each level has different requirements and a competent and authorised person shall determine which 

level is appropriate to the work. 

1.1 Level 1 – Non Recorded Isolation 

This level of isolation is intended for routine work covered by a Standard Work Procedure or THA that 

describes the specific points of isolation as one component of the total task. Each Site shall identify 

what work is covered under a level 1 process 

Permission to carry out the task is verbal and a person carrying out the work performs the isolation 

and proves the integrity of such isolation(s). If more than one work team member is engaged in the 

work they shall confirm the integrity of all isolations prior to commencing work 

The isolation is not recorded on an Isolation Certificate. However it is recommended that a log of such 

work activities is maintained by the work environment owner 

An isolation tag is not required and instead a Personal Danger Tag shall be attached by a lock to 

each isolation point by all work team members 

Note: By itself Level 1 isolation does not require a Work Permit. However, some of the tasks carried 

out in association with Level 1 isolation may require a Work Permit. 

1.2 Level 2 – Recorded Isolation 




All isolations are performed by an Isolator and checked by an Isolation Checker. This is a recorded 

isolation performed under the Permit to Work System. A written record is required on an ‘Isolation 

Certificate‘ and forms part of the documentation attached to the covering Work Permit. 

Note: When High Voltage or radiation sources are involved there is a need for specialist help and a 

need to demonstrate compliance with a legislated requirement then a High Voltage (HV) Permit 

according to requirements of SP 25 or Radiation Certificate will be required in addition to the Isolation 

Certificate. 

2. Isolation Documents 

2.1 Isolation Certificate 

An Isolation Certificate is a checklist and permanent record showing nominated isolation points and 

the precautions that have been taken to address special hazards associated with performing Level 2 

Isolation (see Appendix D2). 

These can be manually generated or produced in electronic document controlled form (using the 

same Isolation Certificate format) for frequently executed isolations. 

For work on High Voltage equipment an additional SP 25 Permit(s) is required and a Radiation 

Certificate for work on or near radiation sources (See Appendix G3). These serve as checklists and 

permanent records indicating safe work precautions have been taken to address special hazards as 

per legislated requirements. When HV or radiation isolations are conducted the specific points are 

also recorded on the Isolation Certificate/Instruction. 

2.2 Isolation Instruction 

An additional ‘Isolation Instruction’ can be used for a complex isolation or an isolation that has to be 

done in a sequential order to bring the equipment to a state of zero energy for work to commence. It 

is attached to the Isolation Certificate that records the Instruction reference number. The Instruction 

shall include: 

• The limits and extent of the isolation 

• Any special conditions to be met (beyond those already specified in Work Permit) 

• Specialist isolations required (eg. HV or Radiation) 

• Isolation point information in the same format as the Isolation Certificate 

This Instruction shall be produced following a risk assessment, authorised by a senior line person and 

controlled within the sites document control system. It shall not be altered without proper authorisation 

by a senior line person. A procedure for authorising alteration shall be developed by the site. 

3. Performing an Isolation 

Following advice from a Permit Issuer that as part of implementing agreed Work Permit hazard 

controls, isolation of energies is required: 

• An Isolator shall confirm that the Permit Issuer prepared Isolation Certificate (and Isolation 

Instruction if attached) is appropriate for the defined scope of work (in the situation in which the 

Permit Issuer performs the role of an Isolation Checker) 

• An Isolator shall carry out isolation of energies they are authorised to perform. Positive isolation 

of each isolation point must be proved 

• An Isolator shall padlock each isolation point with a uniquely keyed isolation lock(s) and 

isolation tag cross referenced to the Work Permit number 

• An Isolator shall sign the Isolation Certificate indicating that isolations have been achieved and 

proved. Isolators who isolate multiple isolation points on one Certificate may sign once only to 

acknowledge their work 




• A Permit Issuer shall arrange for an Isolation Checker to check completed isolations and sign 

on the Isolation Certificate (checking for correct isolation point as per Certificate/Instruction and 

that tag / lock are in place). If the Permit Issuer also performed the isolations as Isolator, then 

the Isolation Checker shall additionally confirm that the Isolation Certificate/Instruction as 

defined by the Permit Issuer is appropriate for the scope of work. Because the competency of 

the Checker is equal to the Isolator it is anticipated that the Checker will check isolation integrity 

as a part of the process 

The Isolation Checker shall be a different person from the person who performed the isolations (this 

person can be the Permit Issuer if they did not perform the isolations). 

An Isolator shall return the completed Isolation Certificate to the Permit Issuer and place the isolation 

lock key(s) in the Permit Control Board (see Section 7). 

A Permit Issuer shall ensure that all isolation key(s) are locked in place with an isolation tag (with the 

Work Permit number recorded) and uniquely keyed Permit Issuers lock. 

When a Testing Program (see Section 9) forms part of the defined scope of work, the following shall 

occur: 

• The Isolator performs isolations following the standard method, but uses a different uniquely 

keyed lock(s) for the nominated testing points. 

• The Permit Issuer places all non-testing point isolation key(s) in a separate lock box, apply an 

isolation tag and lock in place with a Permit Issuer lock. This lock box is placed inside the 

Permit Control Board. The remaining ‘testing point’ isolation key(s) are placed in the Permit 

Control Board. 

4. Performing a Block Isolation 

When a number of different tasks are being completed under separate Work Permits with all tasks 

sharing the same Isolation Certificate the isolation is called a Block Isolation. 

If the need for a Block Isolation has been established by the scope of work/hazard control analysis 

conducted by the Service Provider, the Permit Issuer initiates the standard isolation process. The 

Permit Issuer shall draw up a Work Permit Register and the number of this document is recorded on 

the Isolation Tag for use during isolations. 

Note: The Permit Control Board resulting from this isolation should be placed centrally as close to the 

common worksite as possible. 

When a large number of personnel are involved in work associated with a Block Isolation, additional 

Permit Control Boards may be used and placed closer to the specific worksite. In this situation the 

following shall occur: 

• The Permit Issuer shall attach an additional Isolation Tag annotated with the specific Work 

Permit number and secured in place by a uniquely keyed Isolation lock to the central Permit 

Control board 

• The key for this lock is placed in an additional Permit Control Board that is taken to the specific 

work site 

• Following a Permit Acceptor briefing, each work team member shall attach their Personal 

Danger Tag and lock to the worksite located Permit Control Board prior to commencing work. 

5. Cancelling an Isolation 

When work is complete and the Permit Issuer initiates the requirement to remove the isolation, the 

following shall occur: 

• The Permit Issuer removes the Permit Issuer lock and Isolation Tag and provides the isolation 

key(s) to the Isolator 




• The Isolator commences removal of the isolations lock/tag(s) 

• When all isolation locks/tags have been removed, the Isolator shall return the Isolation 

Certificate together with all locks/tags to the Permit Issuer 

• The Permit Issuer shall confirm the number of locks/tags matches the Isolation Certificate 

requirements 

6. Tags 

Isolation procedures shall use the following four tags: 

• Isolation Tag 

• Personal Danger Tag 

• Testing Tag 

• Out of Service Tag 

6.1 Isolation Tag 

This is an instruction tag that indicates the equipment is in a state that prevents the flow of energy. 

The tag shall refer the reader to the person(s) or position(s) who are authorised to change the status 

of the equipment. 

The tag shall be locked in place at an isolation point with an isolation lock. 

When used to secure the isolation key(s) in the Permit Control Board, it is locked in place with a 

Permit Issuers lock. 

6.2 Personal Danger Tag (PDT) 

This is an instruction tag indicating that there shall be no change in equipment status while this tag is 

in place. 

The tag shall be locked in place with a uniquely keyed lock 

All persons working on isolated equipment shall affix their PDT to the Permit Control Board before 

commencing work. Whilst any PDT remains in place removal of isolations shall not take place. 

Any person may place their PDT on any or all isolation point(s) affecting their safety. 

A PDT shall be removed by the owner before they leave the work site e.g. at shift end. 

Only the tag owner shall remove their PDT. If this is not possible, the site shall have a procedure in 

place for the removal of a PDT without risk to personnel. .This procedure shall be authorised by the 

General Manager (or equivalent). 

6.3 Testing Tag 

This is an instruction tag indicating to the reader that the isolations associated with the tag have been 

temporarily removed to allow testing to be carried out. 

The tag shall be tied onto the Permit Control Board and onto isolation points whilst testing. 

6.4 Out of Service Tag 

This is an informational tag, indicating to the reader the equipment item shall not be used until cleared 

for safe operation by a competent person. 

When Out of Service tags are used, they must be secured in place. 

7. Permit Control Board 

A Permit Control Board has the dual function of housing the Work Permit documentation and securing 

the isolation key(s) in a lock box. 




• Following isolations, all isolation keys common to locks used at specific isolation points shall be 

placed in the lock box section of the Permit Control Board 

• The lock box shall be locked with an Isolation Tag and a Permit Issuer’s lock prior to work team 

members attaching their Personal Danger Tags 

• The key to the Permit Issuer’s lock shall remain in a Permit Issuers key cabinet under control of 

Permit Issuers at all times 

• The Permit Issuer shall not remove the Isolation Tag and Permit Issuer Lock from the Permit 

Control Board until the Work Permit has been handed back and signed off by the Permit 

Acceptor 

• Removal of isolations shall not commence before all Personal Danger Tags have been removed 

from the Permit Control Board 

8. Achieving and Securing Positive Isolation 

All equipment requiring isolation and all isolation points shall be uniquely and clearly identified 

Isolation shall always be applied to the energy source and not rely on control circuitry. Push buttons, 

stop switches, interlocks, emergency stops, pilot circuitry lanyards, etc. shall not be used as a means 

of isolation 

To achieve positive isolation the following steps shall be followed: 

• Isolate and prove (By Isolator) 

• Tag and lock (By Isolator) 

• Test (By Permit Acceptor/Work team member) 

Effective mechanical and process isolations shall be achieved to a particular standard for all intrusive 

work. Energies associated with mechanical, kinetic, pressure and chemical processes shall be 

isolated to an acceptable standard. The method used shall be based upon risk assessment with the 

objective being to ensure that the risk of release of energies is reduced to as low as is reasonably 

practicable (ALARP). 

All parts of isolation shall be proved during installation to confirm that they do prevent the flow of 

energy. During the period that the isolation is in place it may be necessary to confirm that the integrity 

has not been compromised, by monitoring bleeds or vents for isolation breach. 

Isolation methods range from physical disconnection and insertion of blanks/spades to double block 

valve and bleed through to single block valve. Each method has advantages/disadvantages and the 

risk assessment shall be used to determine the most effective method. 

Proof of electrical isolation requires evidence of a physical break in the electrical supply. If the use of 

a de-contactor, visible break contactor or phase lights is not possible, electrician continuity testing is 

required to establish proof of isolation. 

All isolations shall be secured by use of a locking device and these locking devices shall require the 

use of a key or special tool to achieve removal. 

Isolation locks are uniquely keyed or keyed alike in sets. 

Personal Danger locks shall be uniquely keyed. 

Permit Issuers locks shall be uniquely keyed (Note: these locks and keys are best secured in a Permit 

Issuers cabinet with Permit Issuers retaining a common key to cabinet). 

Coloured padlock systems shall not be used under this procedure. 

A system of locking device and key management shall be defined by the site. 




9. Testing Program 

If equipment that has energies isolated requires testing, jogging or re-positioning during progress of 

work, then the following shall occur: 

• An authorised Test Program is required and referenced on the Work Permit. This program shall 

specify the designated points for temporary removal of isolations and a Designated Person who 

will be in charge and/or performing the testing task 

• For routine, low risk single point Testing Programs the Designated Person may manage the 

process of re-energisation and re-isolation. However for more complex multi testing point high 

risk Programs the process should be managed by the Permit Acceptor. 

• The Designated Person shall be assessed as competent in the Testing Program for the specific 

equipment / plant. 

• When testing is to commence, work team members remove their Personal Danger Tag from the 

Permit Control Board and for low risk Testing Programs the Designated Person is the last 

person to remove their Personal Danger Tag prior to commencing testing. For high risk Testing 

Programs the Permit Acceptor’s Personal Danger Tag is the last tag removed from the Permit 

Control Board prior to testing. 

• The Designated Person: 

- Removes the isolation keys designated as part of the Testing Program from the Permit 

Control Board 

- Removes the Isolation Tag(s) from the points designated for removal of isolations 

- Ties Testing Tag(s) to each isolation point and onto the Permit Control Board 

- Removes isolations from designated points to allow the testing program to be completed. 

• For high risk Testing Programs the Permit Acceptor remains at the work site for the duration of 

testing. 

• Upon completion of Testing Program the Designated Person: 

- Removes the Testing Tag and re-attaches the Isolation Tag and lock 

- Removes the Testing Tag from the Permit Control Board and returns the isolation key(s) 

• If work is to continue, work team members re-attach their Personal Danger Tags. 




APPENDIX D2 

D2 ISOLATION CERTIFICATE 

ISOLATION CERTIFICATE 

This certificate must be accompanied by a Work Permit 

Plant / Area: 

Equipment Description: 

Work Permit Reference No.: 

No. of Isolation Keys used: 

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: 

No: 


Is Radiation Certificate required? □ Yes □ No No: 

Is HV Permit required? □ Yes □ No No: 

Testing Program required? □ Yes □ No No: 

Isolation Instruction No : DRW No : 

Isolator 

Checker 

No. Isolation Point Description Method 

Name Initial Name Initial 




APPENDIX E1 

E1 SAFE WORKING IN CONFINED SPACE PROCEDURE 

PURPOSE AND SCOPE 

This Procedure covers requirements for: 

• Identifying and registering all defined confined spaces at each WMC Resources site 

• Ensuring that all work conducted in or on confined spaces complies with the specific controls 

determined by the WMC Permit to Work Standard. (Note – Certain types of work performed “on” 

a confined space has the potential to affect a person working within the space and shall be 

considered when conducting the risk assessment) 

• Conducting regular audits of work within confined spaces 

• Designing, manufacturing, constructing, maintaining and inspecting plant, equipment and 

structures to ensure where practicable, the need for entry into confined spaces is eliminated 

This procedure should be read as a component of the Permit to Work Standard. 

DETAILS 

1. Responsibilities 

The General Manager or equivalent is responsible for ensuring: 

• All confined spaces are identified (sign posted where practicable) and placed on a register 

• In preparation for any potential future work within these spaces, a hazard identification and risk 

assessment of the inherent hazards of each confined space itself has been competently 

conducted and the results also recorded on the register 

• A specific risk assessment (THA as a minimum) is conducted for work to be completed within 

the space that identifies all hazards and determines the control measures prior to the 

commencement of the work 

• All confined space entries are conducted under a specific Work Permit and a Confined Space 

Entry Certificate 

• All low risk confined space inspections are conducted under a specific confined space entry 

Work Authorisation process 

• There is a rescue plan that is capable of execution for each entry into a confined space 

• Where practicable the need for entry into confined spaces is eliminated. 

2. Definition 

A Confined Space is: 

• An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is at atmospheric pressure during occupancy and 

is not intended or designed primarily as a place of work, and: 

(a) is liable at any time to: 

(i) have an atmosphere which contains potentially harmful levels of contaminant; 

(ii) have an oxygen deficiency or excess; or 

(iii) cause engulfment; and 




(b) could have a restricted means for entry and exit. 

Note 1: where an enclosed or partially enclosed space is to be at atmospheric pressure during 

occupancy and it is not intended or designed primarily as a place of work and the content of oxygen in 

atmosphere is liable at any time to be below or above 20.9% by volume under normal atmospheric 

pressure, the space must be considered to be a confined space. 

Note 2: when a person’s head, i.e. breathing zone, or upper body is within the boundary of the 

confined space they are considered to have entered the space. Inserting an arm for atmospheric 

testing purposes is not considered an entry to a confined space. 

3. Confined Space Entry 

3.1 General 

Allowance has been made within the Permit to Work Standard for a two-tiered Work Permit process 

for inspection and for full entry into confined spaces. The two-tiered work permits are: 

• Confined Space Work Authorisation 

This level is for a low risk inspection only into a atmospherically safe environment and requires 

the use of a Work Authorisation Tag 

• Confined Space Entry permit 

This level is for all work within all confined spaces and requires the use of a Work Permit and 

Confined space Entry Certificate 

3.2 Confined Space Inspection (Low Risk) 

A confined space inspection only can be managed on site providing that all of the following criteria 

determined by the risk assessment are complied with: 

• Head or head and shoulders entry (for inspection only) 

• The atmosphere is safe and is expected to remain safe at all times during inspection 

• Any isolation required enabling inspection shall be done by a qualified Level 1 Isolator 

• There is a purpose designed Inspection/access way (e.g. a purpose designed inspection hatch 

into a transfer chute) 

• There is no expected risk of contamination occurring 

• Appropriate lighting is available 

• Whilst conducting the inspection there is no expected chance of a person being overcome by 

extremes of temperature 

• There is no requirement to have rescue equipment at the job site 

• The inspection cannot change any of the above conditions 

3.3 Confined Space Entry (High Risk) 

All entry into confined spaces shall comply with the full requirements of the Permit to Work Standard 

with the issue of a Work Permit and Confined Space Entry Certificate (see Appendix E2). 

4. Evaluation, Identification and Registration Of Confined Spaces 

A confined space inherent hazard evaluation (refer to Appendix E4) shall be conducted on any 

potential confined space in preparation for any future work within that space being required. 




The evaluation of the space will also determine if the space meets all of the requirements to allow for 

an inspection only to be completed under a low risk Work Authorisation Tag. 

These potential confined spaces can be in existence or be created by new construction or 

modifications to existing structures, equipment etc. 

The evaluation assesses the risk of the inherent hazards of the space itself. 

To assess if the space can be managed under a low risk inspection process the evaluation shall 

establish that the space will not have any potential unsafe atmosphere at all times during the 

inspection. 

The confined space evaluation shall be referred to when performing or reviewing a Standard Work 

Procedure/THA for any task to be performed within that space. 

In all cases the need for entry to the confined space shall be evaluated as a first consideration with 

the work conducted from outside the space if practicable. 

4.1 Identification 

The site shall identify and assign a unique identification to each confined space. 

4.2 Register 

The site shall maintain a register and a record of the evaluation for all identified confined spaces. The 

register as a minimum shall contain: 

• The unique identification number 

• Separate identification of all designated low risk inspection only confined spaces 

• The confined space location 

• A description of the space and its inherent foreseeable hazards 

The register and evaluation of the space shall be reviewed and updated by competent persons at 

appropriate intervals but in any case not exceeding two years. 

4.3 Signage 

Each entry point to a confined space shall have a sign of appropriate material and size stating 

“Danger Confined Space - Entry by Permit Only”. The sign should be mounted as close as is 

practicable to the entry point. Where it is impracticable to place and maintain signs on every entry, 

alternate warning systems shall be implemented to prevent unauthorised entry into any confined 

space. 

The placement and condition of signs shall be included on regular inspection checklists. 

5. Requirements To Inspect a Low Risk Confined Space 

All inspections conducted for a low risk confined space shall be in compliance with the following 

details: 

• The identification and evaluation of the inherent hazards of the space stored on the site 

database must be retrieved and reviewed before completion of a Confined Space Work 

Authorisation Tag 

• A SWP for the inspection, or a new THA for the inspection to be performed must be reviewed 

or completed detailing all precautions and controls required to maintain safe inspection 

• The confined space ID number, SWP or THA number, entrants name and Authorising Persons 

signature be recorded on the confined space entry Work Authorisation Tag 




• The completed lower tear off portion of the tag (Confined Space inspection in progress section) 

must be left with the supervisor controlling work within that area 

• All control measures and precautions detailed on the SWP or THA shall be established and 

confirmed before commencement of the inspection (checklist on the tag completed) 

• Persons performing the inspection shall sign the SWP or THA confirming they understand and 

will comply with the hazards control requirements for the task 

• Isolations must be in compliance with level 1 requirement 

• Once the task is finished, the completion of work sections of the tag shall be signed off and both 

portions kept and filed as part of the Permit to Work documentation. 

6. Requirements to Work in a Confined Space 

6.1 General 

All work conducted in or on confined spaces shall be in compliance with the Permit to Work Standard 

defined in this document. A specific Confined Space Entry Certificate (see Appendix E2) shall be 

completed and attached to the relevant Work Permit. 

No person shall enter a confined space unless: 

• They have been trained, and assessed as competent to do so 

• They have signed on to the Work Permit confirming they have read and understood the 

requirements of the current THA, Work Permit and Confined Space Entry Certificate for the 

work to be performed 

• They sign on and off the Entry/Exit log each time they enter and exit the confined space 

• It has been determined that there is either a safe atmosphere inside the space or that adequate 

protective measures are implemented to ensure their safety 

• There is a system to ensure that where there is more than one entry to the confined space, the 

other entry points are sign posted and barricaded in a way that shall prevent involuntary entry 

but will allow emergency egress. 

A Work Permit and a Confined Space Entry Certificate is required to enter a confined space and shall 

include provision for the recording of: 

• The risk assessment for the task to be performed within/on the space (i.e. THA as a minimum) 

has been completed and is available 

• Evidence that isolation of contaminants and energy sources has been completed by an 

authorised person and in accordance with the requirements of the Permit to Work Standard 

• The location of the job 

• The description of work (scope of work) 

• Atmospheric testing requirements and results if applicable 

• An emergency rescue plan 

• Any special instructions that may be required 

• The authority to enter signed by an authorised person (Permit Issuer) 

• Acceptance of the permit signed by the Permit Acceptor 

• Nominated Stand-by Person(s) 

• Provision for signing in and out of persons who may enter and exit the confined space 




• The completion of the work and cancellation of the Work Permit and Certificate by the 

authorised person. 

The Confined Space Entry Certificate shall be prominently displayed in the Permit Control Board at 

the entry point to a confined space. 

Should any site alarms, outside of normal site testing requirements, require evacuation of the space 

then the confined space shall be re-gas tested prior to re-entry. 

When work is completed the Work Permit shall be cancelled by the Permit Issuer only after that 

person has: 

• Ensured that all persons who entered the space have signed off the Entry/Exit Log and 

removed their Personal Danger Tag from the Permit Control Board 

• Visually checked the confined space to ensure that all personnel are clear and that all 

equipment & tools have been removed from the confined space 

• Checked that the work area is clear and that the equipment can safely be returned to service. 

6.2 Atmosphere 

Before a person enters a confined space, it shall be ensured where it is technically feasible to do so, 

that: 

• The confined space contains an oxygen level within the safe oxygen range 

• The atmospheric contaminants in the confined space are reduced to below the relevant 

exposure standards 

• The concentration of flammable contaminant in the atmosphere of the confined space is below 

5% of its LEL. 

Each site shall have systems to ensure that: 

• Risk assessments identify appropriate control measures where any activity in or on a confined 

space may introduce atmospheric contaminants (toxic or flammable) or affect the level of 

oxygen inside the space 

• Atmospheric testing, re-testing & monitoring of confined spaces on each site is conducted 

consistent with the inherent nature of the space and the hazards identified in the risk 

assessment for the work to be performed 

• Atmospheric testing is only performed by trained and competent persons authorised to do so. A 

register of authorised Gas Testers shall be kept and maintained on each site 

• Atmospheric testing is performed from outside the space if practicable and technically feasible. 

If it is necessary to enter the space to test the atmosphere, a risk assessment that stipulates the 

safe testing procedure and a Work Permit and a Confined Space Entry Certificate is required 

prior to entry 

• Where persons have entered a confined space and the level of flammable contaminant in the 

atmosphere of the confined space has been found to be greater than 5% but less than 10% of 

its LEL, all persons are to be removed from the space unless continuous monitoring is used in 

accordance with AS 2865 

• Where the concentration of flammable contaminant in the atmosphere of the confined space is 

greater than 10% of its LEL, no person shall enter or remain in the confined space 

• Where there is a presence of flammable contaminants, there shall be a system implemented to 

control all potential ignition sources including static electricity 




• Where it is not technically feasible to ensure an oxygen level in the atmosphere greater than 

19.5% (and less than 23.5%), or the atmospheric contaminants cannot be reduced to below the 

relevant exposure standards, no person shall enter the confined space unless they are 

equipped with suitable personal protective equipment including appropriate air supplied 

respiratory protective equipment. 

6.3 Cleaning and Purging 

There shall be a system to ensure that identified confined spaces are cleaned and purged, consistent 

with the risk assessment. 

Purging and cleaning should be performed from outside the space if reasonably practicable. If it is 

necessary to enter the space to purge or clean the space, a Work Permit and a Confined Space Entry 

Certificate in accordance with this standard is required prior to entry. 

6.4 Hot Work 

Any hot work that must be performed within or on a confined space shall be in compliance with the 

requirements of Appendix F1 of the Permit to Work Standard. 

A detailed risk assessment for any hot work performed within or on confined spaces shall consider 

the potential to affect the safety of the atmosphere. 

Good working practices include: 

• Identifying the flammability and thermal decomposition products of coatings, scale, sludge and 

metals (alloys) generated from hot work 

• Switching off the power source to equipment when arc welding is suspended for crew breaks or 

at end of shift. All electrodes shall be removed from holders and placed so that accidental 

arcing or contact cannot occur 

• Closing torch and cylinder valves, de-pressure and remove the whole torch and assembly hose 

when oxy acetylene cutting, heating or welding is suspended for breaks or shift change 

• Not taking compressed gas cylinders or associated manifolds, other than those used for 

breathing apparatus, inside the confined space. 

6.5 Ventilation 

Ventilation of confined spaces can include natural, forced air or mechanical means to establish and 

maintain a safe atmosphere. 

Mechanical ventilation equipment shall be regularly inspected and maintained in proper working 

condition by competent persons. 

Mechanical ventilation equipment used during confined space occupancy shall be continuously 

monitored while the confined space is occupied and the controls will be clearly tagged to ensure they 

are not interfered with by unauthorised persons. 

The risk assessment and procedures shall take into account the hazards of introducing atmospheric 

contaminants from unsafe sources including the location of combustion engines, their exhaust and 

the ability for any atmospheric contaminants to enter or re-enter a confined space (eg change of wind 

direction). 

6.6 Stand-by Person 

A Stand-by Person, shall be designated and remain outside the confined space where determined by 

risk assessment. 

All stand-by Persons shall be trained, assessed and passed as competent to: 

• Initiate site emergency procedures if required 




• Operate and monitor as required any specific safety plant or equipment identified as being 

required to ensure health and safety 

• Use communications equipment as appropriate 

• Monitor the surrounding environment for impact on the confined space 

• Recognise changes in risk to those inside the confined space and to take appropriate action 

where necessary 

• Where the risk assessment determines that the Stand-by Person may be required to perform 

first aid, they shall be trained, assessed and passed as competent to perform that task. 

A Stand-by Person shall be positioned such that they are capable of being in continuous 

communication with and, where possible, to observe those inside a confined space. 

Stand-by Persons may alternate with persons working inside the confined space providing they are 

properly trained. 

Stand-by Persons shall be assigned no other duties that may affect their ability to fully maintain 

constant communication and control of the safety of person/s within the confined space. 

Under no circumstances is the Stand-by Person to enter the confined space. 

6.7 Safety Equipment 

There shall be management procedures to ensure that any safety equipment used in a confined 

space (including personal protective equipment) is: 

• Appropriate to the work to be conducted 

• Maintained in proper working condition 

• Selected and fitted (where required) to suit the individual 

• In compliance with relevant statutory requirements and Standards where applicable. 

Any equipment used to ensure a safe environment during confined space occupancy shall be 

continuously monitored while the confined space is occupied and the controls will be clearly tagged to 

ensure unauthorised persons do not interfere with them. 

6.8 Portable Electrical Equipment 

There shall be a system to ensure that any portable electrical equipment used in a confined space: 

• Uses flexible heavy duty power supply cable of at least AS/NZS 3191 standard 

• Has the power supply cable/s suspended or guarded against damage 

• Is double insulated where available 

• Is in compliance with relevant statutory requirements and Standards where applicable. 

Portable electrical equipment used within confined spaces should: 

• Be connected, individually or collectively, to an earth-free, protected, extra-low voltage supply 

(see AS/NZS 3000) from an isolating transformer/s complying with AS/NZS 3108, with the 

transformer/s being located outside the confined space 

• Be protected through a residual current device complying with AS 3190, with the device being 

located outside the confined space; or 

• Where there is a potential for combustibles, be intrinsically safe. 

Note: In all cases consideration must be given to the use of extra-low voltage, air, hydraulic or other 

means of powering portable equipment used in confined spaces. 




6.9 Gas Cylinders 

There shall be a system to manage the use of compressed or liquefied gas equipment in confined 

spaces that shall include ensuring that: 

• No cylinder of compressed or liquefied gas should taken in to a confined space (except 

cylinders for use with breathing apparatus) 

• Supply hoses are inspected, repaired or replaced as required prior to use 

• Supply hoses are located, suspended or guarded against damage 

• Gas cylinders are secured at all times 

• Supply to the equipment is turned off when the equipment is not in use 

There shall be management procedures to ensure that any equipment used inside a confined space 

is in compliance with relevant statutory requirements and Standards where applicable. 

7. Training 

Training (and re-training at appropriate intervals but in any case not to exceed two years) shall at 

least be given to persons who: 

• Perform work in or on confined spaces including Stand-by Persons 

• Manage and/or supervise persons working in confined spaces 

• Provide, fit, wear and maintain PPE used in confined spaces 

• Are conducting atmospheric testing of confined spaces 

• Are involved in rescue and first aid procedures 

Details of training are to be recorded in the individual’s training record. 

8. Emergency Response 

There shall be a system to ensure that: 

• Emergency response (including confined space rescue) and first aid procedures and provisions 

are planned, established and rehearsed 

• Persons involved in emergency response are trained, assessed and passed as competent 

• Persons involved in emergency response are advised of conditions within the confined space 

prior to entry. 

9. Contractors 

Where contractors have been engaged to conduct confined space work, evidence of recognised 

confined space training will need to be provided to the WMC Resources Nominated Person. In 

addition, the contractors shall understand how confined space work is managed at the WMC 

Resources site, including the requirements of this Standard. 

10. Audit and Review 

There shall be a program for: 

• Inspection of the condition and accuracy of contents of the confined space register and its 

accessibility 

• A bi-annual check to ensure that there has been no change to the evaluation of a Confined 

Space 




• A 6 monthly review of the risk assessment of a low risk inspection confined space to ensure that 

no foreseeable risk of an atmospheric hazard existing or occurring that will change the 

assessment. 




APPENDIX E2 

E2 CONFINED SPACE ENTRY CERTIFICATE 


Register No. : 

Work Permit No.: 


CONFINED SPACE ENTRY CERTIFICATE 


Isolation Certificate No.: 


No: 

Self-contained BA Safety Harness Secure from engulfment 

Airline respirator Life line Rescue Plan 

Ventilation extraction 

Lighting 

Audible alarm 

Communications equipment 

NOMINATED STANDBY PERSON 

Name Signature On Time Signature Off Time 

Atmospheric Testing required : Yes No 

Continuous monitoring required : Yes No 

Initial Atmospheric Testing 

Gas Test Analysis Date Gas Test Analysis Date 

Toxic gas : ppm Oxygen content % 

Toxic gas : ppm LEL % 

Toxic gas : ppm Other 

Toxic gas : 

ppm 

AUTHORISED GAS TESTER 

Name: Signature: Date: Time: 

Is repeat gas testing required : Yes No Required every ........................................... 

Repeat gas tests results on rear of form. 




APPENDIX E3 

E3 REAR OF CONFINED SPACE CERTIFICATE 

REPEAT GAS TESTS 

Date Gas Test Analysis Authorised Gas Tester 




APPENDIX E4 

E4 CONFINED SPACE ENTRY/EXIT LOG 

Confined Space ID: 

Work Permit No: 

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY/EXIT LOG 

Confined Space Entry Cert No: 

Date 

Name 

In 

Time 

Out 




APPENDIX E5 

E5 CONFINED SPACE WORK AUTHORISATION TAG 

FRONT 

REAR 

No: 

Confined Space Inspection 

Work Authorisation 

Use of this authority is restricted to inspection only 

and in compliance with the attached THA/SWP and 

Confined Space hazard identification and evaluation 

Confined Space ID No: 

THA/SWP No: 

Entrant Name: 

Date: 

Time In: 

Time Out: 

Authorised Person: 

On completion of work 



Checklist prior to work 

Confined Space Register 

confirms use of the Tag 

Can the inspection be achieved 

by head & should entry only? 

Hazard Controls in place as per 

THA/SWP? 

Yes 

The inspection is completed, I have left the space, 

the confined space is clear of all tools and 

equipment. 

Entrants Name 

Name: 

Signature: 

Time: 

Confined space isolated from all 

energies? 


No: 


Completion of Work 

Confined Space Inspection in Progress 

Confined Space ID No: Job Completion Time: Date: 

THA/SWP No: 

All persons & equipment are 

clear of the space. 

Authorised Entrant 


Name: 

Job Start Time: Date: Time: 




APPENDIX E6 

E6 CONFINED SPACE EVALUATION 

Confined Space Identification & Inherent Hazard Worksheet 

Confined Space ID: 

Exact Location of the Space: 

ID & Analysis Team: 

Confined Space Name 

Date of Analysis: 

Picture of Confined Space & Access Points 

Confined Space (Low Risk) 

Confined Space (High Risk) 

Nature of the Space 

• Describe the space 

• What is it primarily designed for? 

• What is the space made of? 

• Describe the location, number and 

dimensions of entry/exit points. 

(Example) 

Metal transfer chute designed to pass 

product from one conveyor to the next via 

gravity. There are two inspection hatches – 

one on the north side approx. 600-x 600mm, 

which is 1.3m from floor level. The other is 

on the east side approx. 450 x 450mm, which 

is also 1.3m above floor level. The space is 

approx. 3.5m x 2.5m x 5m deep. 

Is Entry Necessary? 

It is vital to consider the need to actually enter the space at allanswer 

the following questions first. 




Question 

Details 

• Is a regular head or head/shoulders 

inspection performed on this space 

• How often will these inspections be 

undertaken? 

• Can the inspection be done without 

actually putting head/shoulders into the 

space? 

• Can the inspection be done using any 

other method? 

Inherent Hazards 

Is there a potential for atmospheric hazards to be present within the space? 

(Consider what is or has been stored in the space or the product or material that flows through the space) 

Hazard Yes No Details 

• Oxygen deficient or enriched 

• Combustible gasses or 

vapours 

• Toxic gasses or vapours 

• Fumes or particulates 

• Other 

Could there be any atmospheric hazards that could be released and/or enter the space? 



Contaminants that could be 

trapped in: 

• Sludge, scale, liquids, other 

deposits 

• Fittings, joints, bends in pipes, 

other 

Contaminants that could be 

caused by: 

Oxidisation, decomposition, leaks 

Are there other potential hazards inherent to the space? 



• Structural integrity, movement 

of the space, radiation 

• Moving parts, machinery or 

equipment, stored energy 

within the space 




• Potential for engulfment or 

introduction of materials, or 

suspended loads 

• Temperature extremes, noise 

or lighting 

• External hazards, exposure to 

elements, Snakes, insects, 

animals 

• Electrical equip., cables, 

services, impact of persons, 

plant, in area 

• Ergonomics, manual handling, 

slips, trips, falls 

• Fire, explosion 

• Hazardous substance (eg. 

chemicals, 

poisons) 

absorption, inhalation, 

ingestion) 

• Other (list) 

• 

Considerations 

Details Yes No 

Isolations required? 

Isolations: What services will be required to be isolated for safe occupancy? (list) 

Note- If the space requires a Level 2 isolation then the space must be recorded on the register as a 

High Risk Confined Space requiring a Work Permit and Entry Certificate 


Emergency Response Team Involvement Required: 

Emergency Response: If there is any concern about the ability to rescue persons from the space, detail the 

concerns below and contact Emergency Response Team to investigate and develop an emergency plan as 

required. 





Other considerations required? 

Does the evaluation confirm that the space is a Low Risk inspection only space allowing for a Work 

Authorisation process to manage entry, including: 

• Head or head and shoulders entry (for inspection only) 

• The atmosphere is safe and is expected to remain safe at all times during inspection 

• Any isolation required enabling inspection shall be done by a qualified Level 1 Isolator 

• There is a purpose designed Inspection/access way (e.g. a purpose designed inspection 

hatch into a transfer chute) 

• There is no expected risk of contamination occurring 

• Appropriate lighting is available 

• Whilst conducting the inspection there is no expected chance of a person being overcome by 

extremes of temperature 

• There is no requirement to have rescue equipment at the job site 

• The inspection cannot change any of the above conditions 

Note – If the space does not meet all of the above conditions then it must be recorded as a High 

Risk Confined Space requiring a Work Permit and Confined Space Entry Certificate at all times. 

Record the risk level on the front page of the evaluation. 




APPENDIX F1 

F1 HOT WORK PROCEDURE 

1. Scope 

This procedure shall apply to any person, or group of persons, undertaking “Hot Work” at any Site 

owned or controlled by WMC Resources. 

For the purposes of this procedure “Hot Work” means any grinding, welding, thermal or oxygen 

cutting, heating, and other related heat or spark producing operations. Work with live electrical 

equipment not classed as intrinsically safe, including instrumentation, mobile phones, cameras and 

test equipment/tools, in a Classified Hazardous area is also considered as hot work. 

2. Purpose 

The purpose of this procedure is to define the method and the responsibilities associated with 

correctly defining the hazard controls required and preparing the work environment for hot work to be 

conducted safely. It should be read as a component of the Permit to Work System 

3. Competency Development 

Training specifically related to Hot Work Safety is required for all personnel who issue and accept 

Work Permits or perform fire watch duties. This training shall be re-assessed at a maximum interval of 

two years. 

4. Definitions 

Designated Hot Work Area An area specifically prepared and adequately signed for hot work 

activities. All flammable and combustible liquids or materials are 

removed from this area. Fire extinguishers and fire fighting equipment 

is provided within boundaries of the area. Hot work in this area does 

not require a Work Permit or Hot Work Certificate 

Hazardous Areas 

A three dimensional region or space in which an explosive 

atmosphere is present, or may be expected to be present, in 

quantities such as to require special precautions for the construction, 

installation and use of potential ignition sources 

Hazardous Areas – Zone 0 



Non-classified Areas 

Gas testing 

Gas Tester 

Fire Watch 

An area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is present 

continuously, or is present for long periods 

An area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is likely to occur in 

normal operation 

An area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is not likely to occur in 

normal operation and if it does occur it will exist for a short period only 

All other areas that are not ‘Designated Hot Work Area’ or ‘Classified 

Hazardous Area’ 

Checking of the worksite with a calibrated gas detector, prior to and 

during work activities, to detect the presence of flammable gas 

A person adequately trained in the use of gas testing equipment and 

in the interpretation of results through the successful completion of 

competency based training 

Personnel who are been suitably trained and appointed to standby 




Intrinsically safe equipment 

Lower Explosive Limit 

Upper Explosive Limit 

and observe a work area where hot work is being done. The Fire 

Watch shall not perform other tasks whilst assigned in this role 

Equipment that has been specifically designed and certified for use in 

hazardous areas 

The ‘leaner’ point at which a mixture of flammable gas or vapour in air 

will no longer support combustion 

The ‘richer’ point at which a mixture of flammable gas or vapour in air 

will no longer support combustion 

5. Details 

5.1 General 

A Work Permit and associated Hot Work Certificate is required when: 

• Flammable or combustible gases or liquids are present which have the potential to ignite or 

explode 

• Flammable or combustible materials are present which may ignite if not protected or controlled 

adequately 

• Flash vapours and non-condensable gases have the potential to accumulate and develop 

flammable mixtures. 

Risk assessments shall be conducted to identify the areas where the higher level of control of a Work 

Permit/Hot Work Certificate is required. All other hot work where a risk of ignition exists is either 

performed in a designated hot work area or, if considered low risk hot work, under the authority of a 

Work Authorisation. Where there is no risk of fire or explosion from hot work the work can proceed 

under a management authorised THA or Standard Work Procedure. 

5.2 Performing Hot Work when a Work Permit is not Required 

• Where it has been determined by risk assessment that no risk of fire or explosion exists, the hot 

work may proceed under an authorised THA or Standard Work Procedure (SWP). 

• The THA shall be signed as a written authority by a line supervisor confirming that a Work 

Permit/Safety Checklist is not required and all controls defined are appropriate for the work in 

the defined work environment 

• The hot work technician shall obtain verbal clearance from the work environment ‘owner’ prior to 

work commencing. 

5.3 Performing Hot Work under a Work Authorisation 

Where it has been determined by risk assessment that the risk of fire and explosion from hot work is 

low the work may be conducted under the authority of a Work Authorisation and a THA/SWP signed 

by the hot work technician’s line supervisor. 

The hot work technician and team leader shall confirm that: 

• They have verified that a Work Permit is not required 

• An authorised THA/SWP is available for the specific work 

• The person(s) performing the hot work is competent to perform the particular hot work 

• The area is free of flammable and combustible materials, which may ignite if not protected or 

controlled adequately (a 15 metre radius is required by AS 1674) 




• The person performing the hot work can safely monitor the work environment 

• The appropriate fire fighting equipment is available and in working order 

Once the above questions have been answered in the affirmative and the Work Authorisation Tag has 

been filled out, the Tag shall be authorised. 

The Authorising Person retains the tear off portion of the Tag as a record of work authorisation. 

Prior to commencing work verbal clearance shall be obtained from the ‘owner’ of the work 

environment. 

The Tag is hung adjacent to the area where hot work is performed (see Appendix F3 for Work 

Authorisation Tag). 

When work is complete the hot work technician informs the ‘owner’ that work is complete and the Tag 

is returned to the Authorising Person for sign off and filed as part of the Permit to Work 

documentation. 

5.4 Preparing for a Work Permit/Hot Work Certificate 

The process of defining necessary controls for hot work forms part of the preparation for obtaining a 

Work Permit and is described in the beginning of this Standard. When it has been decided as part of 

this process that a Hot Work Certificate (see Appendix F2) is required, the person performing the hot 

work (hot work technician) and/or the Permit Acceptor, in consultation as necessary with the Permit 

Issuer, shall: 

• Prepare the work site to contain all ignition sources as close to the point of work as possible, i.e. 

erect barriers to contain slag and sparks 

• Identify and remove or control all combustible/flammable materials (gases, vapours, dusts, 

fibres, other solids) from within 15 meters of each hot work point and immediately below this 

area when working at height 

• Equipment, piping and tanks on which hot work is to be performed shall be thoroughly drained, 

flushed with water, dried, steamed and air purged as necessary (the plant/equipment owner 

would normally perform process preparations) to provide an atmosphere which can be tested 

and certified as gas-free immediately before the commencement of hot work. Hot tapping is a 

special case in which hot work takes place on live lines and under hazard controls defined from 

a risk assessment 

• Provide a safe entry and exit from the hot work area. 

If combustible/flammable materials cannot be removed: 

• Ensure suitable non-combustible covers or shields (e.g. fire blankets) are secured in place 

• Provide proper ventilation of hot work areas 

• Locate and check the emergency fire fighting equipment for safe operation 

• Establish a Fire Watch if required by the risk assessment 

• The Permit Issuer shall arrange for required gas testing (initial and repeat or continuous) and 

shall be undertaken using an intrinsically safe gas detector and conducted by an authorised 

Gas Tester 

• The Permit Issuer shall be satisfied that the level of any flammable or combustible material in 

the atmosphere adjacent the hot work area is less than 5% of its Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) 

immediately prior to authorising the Work Permit 

• See Appendix E1 for requirements when conducting hot work in confined spaces. 




When all of the hazard controls defined in the Work Permit and Hot Work Certificate have been 

completed (including any initial gas test results) the Permit Acceptor shall request issue of the Work 

Permit. The Permit Issuer shall follow the Permit to Work issuing process to allow progress of work. 

6. Responsibilities 

The assigned Fire Watch is responsible for: 

• Being alert at all times and continually observing the hot work 

• Maintaining a safe place of work in the vicinity of the hot work 

• Obtaining fire fighting equipment (extinguishers/hoses/blankets etc) and confirming operational 

capacity 

• Ensuring personnel are wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment 

• Monitoring changes in weather conditions specifically wind direction 

• Taking immediate action to combat any outbreak of fire and informing the Emergency Services 

Personnel 

• Withdrawing the Work Permit/Hot Work Certificate if a breach of hazard controls is observed 

• Signing on/off the Hot Work Certificate at beginning /end of hot work 

• Not leaving the work area unless relieved by an authorised person 

• Not leaving the work area until the risk of fire has been removed and any designated post watch 

period determined by the risk assessment has expired. 

The Gas Tester is responsible for: 

• Conducting an alarm point challenge at the beginning of each shift or before a gas detector is 

used for the first time during a shift 

• Conducting fresh air calibrations 

• Ensuring gas testing equipment is available as required and remains in a fully operational state 

whilst in place 

• Recommending sampling and atmosphere control strategies to the Permit Issuer 

• Setting up continuous gas monitors to ensure a representative sample at all times 

• Carrying out initial and repeat gas testing as required. 




APPENDIX F2 

F2 HOT WORK CERTIFICATE 

HOT WORK CERTIFICATE 


Work Location : 

Work Permit No: 


No: 

Fire watch Barricading ER standby 

Fire extinguisher Drains covered Fire Blanket 

Signs erected Area wetting Non sparking tools 

Welding screens Flame-proof PPE Thickness Test 

Gas test requirements 

Yes No Yes No 

Is a gas test required 

Continuous testing 

Gas test frequency 

Initial gas test Result: 

Gast tester: Signature: Date and time: 

Any other conditions 

Repeat Gas Tests 

Result Name Signature Date Time 

Fire Watch sign on/off on rear of Certificate 




APPENDIX F3 

F3 FIRE WATCH SIGN OFF/ON ( rear of Hot work certificate) 

FIRE WATCH SIGN OFF/ON 

Date 

Name 

On 

Time 

Off 




APPENDIX F4 

F4 HOT WORK- WORK AUTHORISATION TAG 

FRONT 

Tag No: 

HOT WORK- WORK AUTHORISATION 

Checklist prior to work 

This tag must be displayed on equipment 

being worked on and returned to the 

Authorised Person on completion of 

work 

Location: ................................................. 

REAR 

HOT WORK- WORK AUTHORISATION 

• Hazard controls in place as per 

THA/SWP............................................ 

• All combustible materials have 

controls established............................. 

• Appropriate safety signs/barricades 

installed................................................ 

• Fire fighting equipment located 

and checked ........................................ 

• Water hose located and checked....... 

THA/SWP Ref: ....................................... 

Dept/Comp: ............................................ 

Date: ....................................................... 

Name: ..................................................... 

Authorised Person 

Name: ..................................................... 

Signature: ............................................... 

Signature: ............................................... 

On Completion of Work 

The hot work is complete and the area left 

clean and safe. 

Name: 

Signature: 

Date: 

Tag No: 

Hot Work- Work Authorisation 

Name: ..................................................... 

Location: ................................................. 

Date: ....................................................... 

Hot Work- Work Authorisation 

Tear off tab to be handed to Authorised 

Person at time of issue 

Work Completion 


Name: 

Date: 




APPENDIX G1 

G1 RADIATION PROCEDURE 

1. Purpose And Scope 

This procedure details the requirements to ensure safe conditions when working with or near radiation 

sources. 

All work with portable sources or when working within a 5 metre radius from a gauge which involves 

breaking into the process line or other process equipment shall be controlled through the issue of a 

Work Permit and associated Radiation Certificate (and Isolations Certificate as necessary). 

2. Details 

The process is shown in Appendix G2 Radiation Process – Flow Chart. 

3. Safety 

The following issues shall be considered when establishing controls for working with radiation 

sources: 

• Radiation Certificates shall be authorised by the Site Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) or delegate 

• Use of Authorised Radiation Workers only. An Authorised Radiation worker is a site employee 

who has successfully completed a recognised radiation-training course and has been registered 

on site as authorised to work with radiation sources. This worker must undertake to complete 

periodic refresher courses as required by the RSO 

• Ensure that radiation warning signs are in place at the work site 

• Whilst transporting a gauge or In Stream Analyser (ISA) probe, appropriate placards shall be 

placed on the vehicle 

• Ensure that all other work team members are aware when a portable nuclear gauge is in use 

and that work that may create ionising radiation is being conducted 

• Ensure that any radiation gauge in use is clearly and correctly labelled with the radiation 

warning symbol, and name and telephone number of the person to contact immediately in the 

event of an emergency 

• Only the supplier, trained persons and persons authorised by the supplier, or persons 

authorised by the State Regulatory Authority are permitted to repair source, source holder or the 

shutter 

• Authorised Radiation personnel shall ensure that they: 

- Always lock the shutter in the ‘Off Position’ until maintenance is complete 

- Only remove the source rod if authorisation is approved by license 

- After a radiation gauge has been switched to the ‘beam off’ position and locked out, the 

Radiation Technician shall perform a gamma survey around the gauge to ensure the 

beam is off, and record results. The radiation level shall not exceed 500 µSv/h at any 

point 5cm from the external surface and 10 µSv/h at any point I metre from the surface 

- Avoid any physical contact with or direct exposure to the source when performing any 

maintenance 




- Log in an appropriate site register the temporary or permanent removal of a radiation 

gauge or ISA probe 

- Ensure the gauge has been wipe tested as per statutory requirements or as 

recommended in the maker’s instructions. The gauge should not be left untested for 

leakage for a period exceeding three years 

• In the event that a radiation device has been damaged, seek expert advice prior to use 

• Before responding to an emergency that involves a radioactive source, the Emergency 

Response Co-ordinator shall notify the RSO and await their attendance and advice before 

attempting any action 




APPENDIX G2 

G2 RADIATION PROCESS - FLOWCHART 

Scope of work defined 

including need to carry out 

work on radiation devices 

Service provider consults 

with RSO and Permit Issuer 

to determine necessary 

controls 

Permit Issuer receives all permit 

documentation, agrees controls and initiates 

preparation of the work environment by an 

authorised Isolator (RSO or delegate), 

according to requirements on the Radiation 

Certificate and Isolation Certificate (as required) 

No 

Are Isolations 

required? 

Yes 

Work Permit closure by 

standard process 

The authorised Isolator (RSO or delegate) 

completes the necessary preparations and 

returns the authorised Radiation / Isolation 

Certificates to the Permit Issuer 

Work completed 

Permit Issuer issues 

Radiation Certificate and 

Work Permit to Permit 

Acceptor 

Work progresses under 

control of RSO and 

authorised radiation workers 




APPENDIX G3 

G3 RADIATION CERTIFICATE 


Equipment Description : 

Covering Work Permit No.: 

RADIATION CERTIFICATE 

This certificate must be accompanied by a work permit 


No: 

SOURCE DETAILS (TO BE COMPLETED BY RSO) 

Source type 

RAD Source No.: 

Activity : 

Serial No.: 

Calculated exclusion zone : 


Film Badge Written plan Shutters locked on/off 

Signpost Irrigating dose meter Sentries posted 

Barrier tape Warning lights Collimator fitted 

Other: 

AUTHORISATION 

The above controls have been implemented and checked. 

RSO Name: Signature: Date: Time: 




APPENDIX H1 

H1 EXCAVATION PROCEDURE 

1. Purpose and Scope 

This appendix documents the process for establishing necessary controls to prevent injury from an 

uncontrolled release of energy through the exposure of underground services and to prevent damage 

to underground services 

The process controls the authorisation of all work where the ground or surface is required to be 

excavated by hand or machinery below 300mm. 

It does not apply to: 

• Any earthmoving or excavation work undertaken within defined ‘Open Cut’ or ‘Underground 

Mine’ boundaries 

• Exploration drilling within defined ‘Open Cut’ boundaries. 

2. Details 

The process is described in Appendix H2. 

3. Safety 

3.1 Excavation Close to Services 

• For any excavation work in close proximity to an energy source (eg. power cables, 

communication cables, live pipe lines) where there is potential for uncontrolled release of 

energy, then the energy source shall be positively isolated, tagged and tested 

• Any work within 1 metre of any buried service shall be done using hand tools 

• Any work within a 10 metre corridor of any overhead power lines can only proceed through the 

authority of a ‘Vicinity Permit’ from the owner of the power line. 

3.2 Crossing Thoroughfares 

The excavation Supervisor will ensure the following precautions if an excavation involves the crossing 

of a road or will impede access to the plant: 

• Install all appropriate signs 

• Notify the Emergency Services Co-ordinator of the area concerned before commencement of 

work 

• Notify the Departmental Manager of the area concerned before commencement of work. 

3.3 Blasting 

Blasting is not permitted in the excavation unless the General Manager or his delegate grants written 

permission. 

3.4 Environmental clearance 

Whenever there is a requirement to disturb ground previously undisturbed, the site environmental 

department shall be contacted to clarify specific environmental requirements. 




3.5 Equipment/Material near an Excavation 

No hoisting or power driven equipment or other load should be placed in or adjacent to an excavation 

unless the sides of the excavation have been adequately supported to prevent wall collapse. 

Excavated material or other material should not be placed or stored at a distance of less than one 

third the depth of the excavation from the edge of the excavation. 

All heavy machinery/equipment shall be stored a minimum distance of 5 metres from the edge of the 

excavation, or a minimum distance equal to the depth of the excavation, which ever is larger. 

3.6 Personnel Working in Excavations 

The following applies to all personnel working under a Work Permit/Excavation Certificate: 

• All excavations shall have warning signs and notices posted 

• All excavations left open shall be barricaded off and have flashing lights installed at night and 

outside working hours (note: barricades to a minimum height of 900mm) 

• Any excavation deeper than 1.2 metres shall have a Confined Space Entry Certificate 

authorised if personnel are required to enter 

• No personnel shall be present in an excavation while that part is being mechanically dug 

• Sufficient and safe means of access into, out of and across excavations shall be maintained 

• A ladder shall be provided for any excavation having a depth of 1 metre or more. 

3.7 Shoring of Excavations 

Every face of any excavation that exceeds 1.2 metres shall be supported or contained by shoring 

unless: 

• The face is cut back to a safe slope 

• The material in the face has good standing 

• There is no danger to personnel because of the nature of the work or their position in the vicinity 

of the work. 

3.8 Updating Records 

Where the excavation is for the installation of any new buried services, full details shall be shown on 

records maintained by the Engineering Section. 

Where any excavation exposes an incorrectly documented buried service the Authorised Excavation 

Officer shall be advised for updating of records. 




APPENDIX H2 

H2 




No: 

This certificate must be accompanied by a work permit 

Location: Attach sketch: Yes No 

Purpose of Excavation : 

Covering Work Permit No.: 

DWG Ref No.: 


Underground Services 

Service Tested Result Name Signature 

Electrical 

Sewerage / Water 

Telecom 

Gas Pipes 

Other 

Other 

Yes 

Yes 

Yes 

Yes 

Yes 

Yes 

Is environmental approval required : Yes No 

Other: 

Is road crossing required : Yes No 

AUTHORISATION 

Authorised Excavation Officer: Signature: Date: Time: 

Authorised Electrical Person: Signature: Date: Time: 




APPENDIX H3 

H3 EXCAVATION – FLOWCHART 

Scope of work defined 

including need for 

excavation 

Work completed 

Work permit 

closure by 

standard process 

Service provider consults 

with Environmental 

section to determine 

environmental 

requirements 

Permit acceptor 

accepts work 

permit 

Permit issuer 

issues work permit 

and associated 

certificates 

Is environmental 

approval required? 

Yes 

Follow 

Environmental 

Request to 

Proceed Form 

Completed all 

other controls on 

Excavation 

certificate 

No 

No 

Request authority to 

excavate from authorised 

officer (site to nominate) 

Is additional fill 

required? 

Yes 

Seek advice from 

Environmental 

section 

No 

Excavator Supervisor and 

authorised officer (and 

Permit Issuer as 

necessary) inspect site 

and identify controls 

required 

Is road closure 

required? 

Yes 

Notify ER coordinator 

No 

All agree necessary 

controls and complete 

Excavation Certificate and 

covering Work Permit 

Is confined space 

entry required? 

Yes 

Complete 

preparedness for 

Confined Space 

Entry certificate as 

per procedure 

No 

Are isolations 

required? 

Yes 

Permit issuer 

requests isolator 

to complete 

Isolation certificate 

Service provider forwards 

all work permit request 

documents to Permit 

Issuer

Permit to Work Major Hazard Standard - MIRMgate

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