High-Risk Work Controls

Mandatory control expectations for work that could create significant harm if not planned, isolated, supervised and evidenced.

High-Risk Work Controls (Mandatory)

The following controls are required for higher-risk activities on site. These are not optional and apply to all staff and contractors.

Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) / Safe Isolation

Before any work on machinery, it must be fully isolated so it cannot start unexpectedly.

  • Applies to maintenance, cleaning, fault finding and adjustments
  • All energy sources must be identified (electrical, mechanical, pneumatic)
  • Equipment must be switched off and isolated
  • Isolation must be locked and tagged
  • Isolation must be verified before work begins
  • Only the person applying the lock may remove it

Critical rule: Emergency stop buttons are NOT a safe isolation method.

Reference: HSE Safe Maintenance – https://www.hse.gov.uk/safemaintenance/

Hot Work Permit System

Any activity that creates heat, sparks or flame must be controlled before work starts.

  • Applies to welding, grinding, cutting and similar activities
  • No hot works without approval
  • Combustible materials must be removed or protected
  • Fire extinguisher must be present
  • Fire watch required during and after work
  • Area must be checked before leaving

Critical rule: No permit = no work.

Reference: HSE Fire & Explosion – https://www.hse.gov.uk/fireandexplosion/

Contractor Control (RAMS)

  • All contractors must submit RAMS before attending site
  • Site must review and approve before work begins
  • No work to start without approval
  • Consultant retains visibility as part of ongoing assurance