Drafting work permits in industrial environments

A work permit is a written document that formalizes the conditions for carrying out risky work in a controlled environment, with the aim of ensuring the safety of those involved. In industrial settings, it is often required for interventions by external companies such as maintenance, electrical work, welding, work at height, or in confined spaces. It also applies to work involving specific risks such as fire, explosion, toxic atmospheres, or electrical hazards, as well as work requiring special measures such as equipment shutdown or lockout.

The objectives of the work permit are to clarify the responsibilities of the various stakeholders, to ensure that risks have been identified and controlled, and to ensure effective coordination and optimal communication between stakeholders.

Regulatory context and normative references

The French Labor Code, through articles such as R4512-1 and the following, requires companies to coordinate and implement procedures for subcontracted work. It also governs work involving specific risks such as working at height, in confined spaces, or hot work. Certain articles, such as R4541-7, impose the obligation of recording and obtaining a fire permit.

In addition, normative references and guides such as INRS ED 6104, OPPBTP practical sheets on work permits and safety instructions, or CARSAT circulars, provide a framework for the management of interventions in industrial environments.

Risks and situations justifying a work permit

Several specific risks and situations may require a work permit to ensure the safety of workers. These risks may include fire and explosion hazards, electrical hazards, work in confined spaces or at heights, handling hazardous chemicals, or work involving exposure to toxic atmospheres or a lack of oxygen. Situations such as maintenance or repair work, simultaneous work by several companies, or work outside normal working hours also require a work permit. Jurisprudence and responsibilities

Case law imposes increased responsibility on employers when coordinating work with external contractors. In the event of an accident, the absence or mismanagement of a work permit is often considered a fault. It is therefore essential to document the consideration of risks and preventive measures to avoid any conviction. Court rulings have already sanctioned employers for failing to meet their safety obligations during work by external contractors without a permit.

Best practices for risk assessment and work permit writing

To ensure optimal risk management and effective work permit drafting, a rigorous and shared risk assessment should be conducted before the permit is issued. It is recommended to precisely identify the work to be carried out and the associated risks, to list the equipment, products, and areas concerned, and to analyze the risks related to the environment and specific site conditions. It is also essential to consult internal reference materials and prevention guides such as those of the INRS or OPPBTP. The content of the work permit must include a clear identification of the participants, a precise description of the work, locations, dates, and times, as well as a list of preventive measures to be applied. Emergency instructions must also be included, with validation by the safety manager and the parties concerned. It is recommended to limit the validity of the permit with the possibility of renewal.

Communication and coordination

Effective communication and optimal coordination are essential to ensure the safety of all involved. Before work begins, a briefing is mandatory to inform all parties involved. The work permit must be sent to all those involved, and periodic checks must be carried out to ensure compliance with the instructions. It is essential to rigorously archive the permit and end-of-intervention reports to ensure work monitoring and feedback.

Recommendations for secure management of subcontracted work

In conclusion, it is essential to never start any risky work without a duly completed and validated work permit. A rigorous and shared risk assessment before issuing the permit is essential, as is the involvement of all stakeholders: employer, external companies, management, and operators. Continuous monitoring during the work is recommended to verify compliance with safety measures, while archiving all permits and feedback to improve future prevention.