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1. Good morning/afternoon. My name is ____________ and I am with ____________. Today I will be

discussing the recent revision to GI 2.100.

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2. First off welcome.  (add your own welcome here – stress the importance of the workshop, etc.)
Location specifics – building alarms and muster points….

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3. It is important to note that all of the changes we are discussing today will take effect July 1, 2016.
From now through June 30, the existing requirements and forms are to still be used. On July 1, these
new requirements take effect and the new work permit forms must be used.

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The purpose of this course is to educate you on the major changes to GI 2.100 and the intended
audience is those personnel that are already certified as work permit issuers and receivers as well as
approved designated representatives.

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4. Let’s look at the agenda. Today we will be covering the following 9 topics.

1. Main differences in the revised GI 2.100

2. Key work permit definitions
3. Overview of the four work permit forms
4. Equipment opening/line break specifics
5. Sections of the work permit forms
6. Changes to the Hazard Identification and Control WP section
7. Hazard Analysis Checklist overview
8. Joint Site Inspection (JSI) process
9. Renewing, extending, cancelling and closing work permits
10. Summary
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5. Lets look at the main differences.

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6. There are seven main differences between the old and the revised GI 2.100. We will cover all those
changes throughout the course in details.
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1. Restricted Areas, restricted activities, and low risk activities will now be identified in your local work
permit process. This means you can refer back to your local process to understand when and where
work permits are to be issued.
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2. The work permit forms have been revised. The have a modified format, the size and content has
changed, the hazard identification and control section has been improved and there is a new Hazard
Analysis Checklist on the back. We will go over these details today during the workshop.
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3. The release permit has been replaced by the equipment opening/line break permit. We will discuss
why this happened later on.
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4. There are new Gas testing requirements and procedures for before and after Equipment
Opening/Line Break activities
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5. Atmospheric gas test limits have been revised
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6. The joint site inspection has been formalized using the Hazard Analysis Checklist to verify that
hazards have been identified and controlled before issuing permit or work begins
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7. There are now clearer definitions for work permit renewal, issuing an extended duration work
permit, the reasons to cancel a work permit, the process for closing a work permit and the use of
work permits during emergency conditions.
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7. Let’s look now at some key definitions in GI 2.100 you will recognize some of these, but some are new
and others have changed.
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8. Restricted Area:
An area that has been designated by proponent organization managers as requiring the work permit
system.
These include all areas where hydrocarbons, flammable liquids or gases, or toxic agents are handled,
stored, piped or processed in bulk quantities. See Supplement 2.100-1 for the minimum criteria for
restricted areas.
These are generally defined as geographic areas within an operating or support facility.
While GI 2.100, supplement 1 contains the mandatory minimum restricted areas, you will find your
restricted areas in your local work permit process.

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9. Restricted Activity:
An activity/task that has been designated by proponent organization managers as requiring the work
permit system no matter the location within SA facilities or project sites. These include activities that
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present a potential hazard to personnel, facilities, equipment or operations. See Supplement 2.100-1 for
the minimum criteria for restricted activities.
While GI 2.100, supplement 1 contains the mandatory minimum restricted activities, you will find your
restricted areas in your local work permit process.

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10. Low Risk Activity:

Jobs that proponent organization managers have determined can be conducted safely in restricted areas
without work permits.
In such cases, the work activity shall follow all applicable SA safety rules and standards and the
proponent organization shall maintain adequate control and account for personnel in all areas.
The proponent is required to specify these low risk activities in their local work permit process.

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11. Work Crew:

A group of workers who report to a common supervisor (e.g., foreman, supervisor or lead). Workers in
the crew may have different craft skills; however, they are performing activities under the direction of a
single supervisor.
This is a change from the existing GI. Previously, some people through that if you had a single activity
that required multiple crafts, say overhauling a pump, that you would need separate work permits for
the electrician and the machinist. In the GI revision, we have introduced the concept of a work crew
that allows a group of workers who report to a single supervisor to conduct their work at the specified
location under a single work permit. This has the opportunity to reduce the number of work permits
issued for a single job.

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12. Lets now take a quick overview of the revised work permit forms.
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13. Question: when is a hot work permit used?

Answer: when the work activity may generate enough energy to ignite a flammable atmosphere or
combustible materials.
In Saudi Aramco, the Hot Work Permit is the most used permit.
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The form remains the same color and purpose. It is slightly bigger and contains more information and it
is easier to complete and read.
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14. Question: When is a cold work permit used?

Answer: When work activities will not produce sufficient energy to ignite flammable atmospheres or
combustible materials.
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Cold work can still involve hazards that must be evaluated during joint site inspections
Basic precautions may still be required to control hazards associated with cold work activities
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The new form is bigger and contains more information.
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15. Question: When is a confined space permit used?

Answer; When personnel are going to enter into a confined space.
It ensures that proper preparation of the confined space is done and that the space is safe for entry. It
also ensures that the confined space is restored properly after work is complete.
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Now larger, the Confined Space Entry Permit purpose remains the same: it protects personnel from
hazards in confined spaces.
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16. The yellow Release of Flammable Liquids or Gasses Permit is now the Equipment Opening/Line Break
Permit.
It is used to help prevent releases on the initial opening of equipment, vessels or piping that is part of a
closed system that has the potential to contain flammable, combustible, toxic or injurious materials such
as high-pressure steam.
This new permit requires:
all systems to be isolated prior to opening.
and new controls such as Gas Testing before and immediately after the initial break
Remember, this is an Opening or Break Permit valid for a short specific period for the opening or break
and “No” Work is allowed with this permit alone.
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We will go over the specifics about the equipment opening/line break permit in the next section.
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17. Let’s now look at the equipment opening/line break permit in more detail.
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18. The old “Release Permit” was incorrectly viewed as authorizing releases. This lead to increasing the risk
to our personnel and to operations.
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Focus of the equipment opening/line break (EOLB) permit is to prevent releases from occurring
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EOLB permits ensure that workers properly plan and take appropriate precautions during work activities
that require the opening of equipment, vessels, or pipe that is part of a closed system
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19. An Equipment Opening/Line Break permit is required when opening equipment, vessels, tanks or piping
that contain or have the potential to contain flammable, combustible, toxic or injurious materials (e.g.,
high-pressure steam).
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Examples include:
Opening oil or gas lines or systems.
Opening steam and condensate lines or systems.
Opening lines or systems containing H2S.
Opening lines or systems containing nitrogen (N2).
Opening lines or systems containing a hazardous material such as caustic or sulfuric acid.
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20. This permit is to be issued immediately before the initial opening of the closed system.
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It should only be valid for the limited period of time necessary to conduct the opening as it stops all
surrounding work and any hot work.
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The Equipment Opening and Line Break permit does not permit you to do any work. In the majority of
cases, a cold or hot work permit is also required for the work involved in opening equipment (e.g.,
vessels, tanks, columns or piping).
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Before the equipment opening or line break, all associated systems must be properly isolated.
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21. Precautions for Equipment Opening/Line Break permits procedures must include:
Remove all ignition sources within 23 m (75 ft) surrounding the systems during the initial opening/line
break of any equipment, vessel or piping in flammable liquid or gas service.
This may include suspending all Hot Work Permits next to the area where the equipment opening or line
break will occur until it is verified that no flammable or combustible material is present.
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22. Other precautions and controls include:

Notify personnel downwind of the opening or line break when there is a potential release of flammable
or toxic materials.
Designate a fire watch or standby man to initiate proper emergency response in the event of a release.
Use PPE appropriate for the potential hazard(s) associated with the material contained within the
equipment/vessel/pipe.
Refer to the Chemical Hazard Bulletin (or MSDS) for the material.
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23. Respiratory Precautions and Controls

You must use the proper type of respiratory protection for the hazardous material during the initial
opening/line break.
Opening systems that contain or have the potential to contain H2S must meet all the requirements of
Section 10.7. of GI.2.100.
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When removing any flange assume the line is pressurized. The bolts must be loosened so that cracking
the flange connection occurs at the “5 o’clock” position down and away from the person performing the
work to allow any potential liquids or gases to be released away from personnel.
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Gas testing must be conducted before and immediately after the initial opening/line break to verify that
acceptable atmospheric conditions exist.
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24. Gas testing before and after the initial opening is important because it :
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Ensures that there are no atmospheric conditions present at the job site that would prevent the work to
be performed.
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Ensures that atmospheric conditions are acceptable at the job site to close the EOLB permit and begin
other work at site.
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Remember until atmospheric conditions return to acceptable levels the use of proper respiratory
protection must continue.
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25. Let’s now look at the specific sections of the work permit forms and how they are organized.
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26. Section 1, work description, on all four forms remains the same and contains the general information
and the work description.
This section may be completed by the issuer or receiver.
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27. Section 2, hazard identification and control, is customized for each of the four forms, and specific to the
work type or activities.
It is completed by the issuer or his designated rep (work permit receivers are not to complete section 2
of the form).
It contains a more detailed list of commonly occurring, hazards, control methods, forms used, plans, fire
watch and standby man etc..
It also has a new section to identify what to do in case of an emergency, assembly points, evacuation
procedures, emergency service contact numbers etc.
We will cover section 2 in greater detail in the next section.
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28. Section 3, gas testing/monitoring, has a couple of new features, including provisions to identify when
periodic monitoring is required, and its frequency. As before; this section must be filled by a Saudi
Aramco Certified Gas Tester.
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29. Section 4, permit authorization and closure, contains signature blocks for the Issuer and Receiver plus
any other approval signature required for permit opening and renewal.
There is space for additional approvals required for extended permits, certain atmospheric conditions
and for higher risk activities.
It also has a countersignature block for other operations and/or facilities affected by the job site
activities.
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30. The back of the new forms are radically different and the same for all four permits.
It contains:
 a Hazard Analysis Checklist
 a Gas Test Information table
 and a Permit authorization and closure signature requirements section.

The new Hazard Analysis Checklist lists 20 questions that formalize and help conduct the now
mandatory Joint Site Inspection.
These questions help you assess the activities at the site and evaluate the hazards and control methods
required before the work permit is issued and work starts. We will cover the hazard analysis checklist in
greater detail later.
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31. The hazard analysis checklist is designed to structure the joint site inspection ,which is now mandatory.
You can use the 20 questions to identify hazards and ensure proper control measures are in place.
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32. The Gas Test Information Table lists the main acceptable atmospheric limits, work conditions and
necessary PPE or approvals required based on the Gas test results of the Job site.
These limits have changed with the new GI 2.100.
Here you can see the new versus the old table. We will go over the new table in detail in a couple of
sections.
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33. The Permit Authorization and Closure section tells you which signatures and countersignature(s) you
need for opening, renewing, extending and closing a permit.
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34. Let’s take a more detailed look at section 2, hazard identification and control.
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35. When looking at section 2, you will notice that many of the items are the same over all four forms, but
there are a few differences. First we will look at the hot work form as it’s list is comprehensive. After
this we will look at the differences in the other forms.
First you will notice that the old box asking whether a joint site inspection was conducted is gone. This
is because a joint site inspection is now mandatory for all work permits. If we are issuing a work permit
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because we have identified a risk that we need to control, then we need to conduct a joint site
inspection to make sure that the proper controls are in place prior to allowing the work to begin.
Part A is to identify and attach applicable checklists and forms to the work permit that provide
supplemental information and/or approvals for the particular work activity.
These are the checklists and forms that provide additional information on how to safely conduct the
work. They can include:
 Job Safety Analysis (JSA),
 gas test records,
 isolation plan,
 blind list,
 critical lift plan,
 excavation checklist
 hydrotest procedure/form.
Any additional checklists or forms not listed on the existing permit form should be written down in the
“Other” space.
What we are trying to do is transform the work permit from a single page form to more of a cover sheet
for a work permit package in the cases where additional/supplementary information is required.

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36. Part B is energy types. If the work crew can be exposed to energy as part of their work then the specific
types of energy must be identified. These include:
 Hydrocarbon/gas/steam/chemicals
 Mechanical
 Electrical
 Hydraulic/pneumatic
 Potential energy such as spring loaded or gravity
 Automated extinguishing systems.

If a type is not listed then add it in as other.

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37. Part C is isolation methods. If energy types were identified in part B then corresponding isolation
methods must be identified here. They include:
 A locked switch or breaker
 A mechanical block
 Use of a block valve
 Single block and bleed
 Double block and bleed
 Blinding
 Disconnect.
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38. Part D is for potential exposures. The work crew may be exposed to hazards either as part of their work
activity or because of the work location. Potential exposures must be taken into account. They include:
 High noise levels
 Hydrogen Sulfide
 Flammable liquids or gasses
 Hazardous or toxic materials
 Radioactive materials
 Temperature (both hot or cold)
Any potential exposures that are identified but are not on the list must be added in the “other” section.
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39. Part E is for additional protective equipment. The Construction Safety Manual PPE chapter already
requires hard hats, safety shoes and safety glasses for all work conducted in restricted areas or project
sites, but sometime more PPE is required. Common additional PPE includes:
 Personal H2S monitor
 FRC
 Goggles/face shield
 Chemical suit/coveralls
 Fall protection
 Barricades/warning signs
 Respiratory protection – if this is selected the specific respiratory protection must be listed in
the additional safety precautions section.
This is not an exhaustive list. If a potential exposure was noted in Part D, then we need to make sure
that the work crew is protected from this exposure, and this protection may include PPE.
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40. Part F is the standard fire protection methods that may be employed at the work site. These include:
 Fire extinguishers
 Fire monitor/hose
 Area wetted
 Fire barriers/shields
If there is some other fire protection method that is to be used, it should be noted in the additional
safety precautions section below.
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41. Part G is a carryover from the existing hot work form to cover/water seal all sewers within 23 meters of
the hot work area.
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42. In part H we have included dedicated space to identify both the standby man and the fire watch by
badge number, if they are needed.
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43. Part I is the additional safety precautions section. This is where the issuer can list any additional
information that was not otherwise covered in section 2.
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44. The last line of section 2 is the “in an emergency” line. This is a blank space where the issuer needs to
write a brief description of what he wants the work crew to do in the event there is an emergency. For
many large plants where the work crew has already undergone a facility orientation, this may be as
simple as following the existing emergency response plan or to call 110. For others, it may be to report
to the unit foreman or muster at the control room. The point here is to identify the immediate action
the work crew should take if there is an emergency.
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45. We’ve looked at the hot work permit. Now let’s look at the equipment opening/line break permit. It is
very similar to the hot work permit with the exception of parts G and H.
Instead of covering/water sealing sewers, the EOLB permit requires the removal of all ignition sources
within 23 meters of the equipment opening/line break.
The EOLB permit also requires the notification of any downwind activities when the equipment or line to
be opened is in flammable or toxic service. This is to ensure that others that may be affected know
what is happening.
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46. The confined space entry permit has a few changes as well.
First, in part A the attachment of both the confined space entry plan and the confined space entry logs
are mandatory before issuing the permit. The confined space entry plan is an existing requirement prior
to entry into any confined space. The requirements for this plan can be found in the Construction Safety
Manual chapter I-6, Confined Spaces. The confined space entry log is required to record those that are
entering and exiting the confined space.
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47. Part C, isolation methods is modified to only show the acceptable means of isolation when personnel
are going to enter into a confined space.
For process piping, confined space entry requires positive isolation; in other words either blinding or
disconnect. All other forms of process piping isolation are not allowed and thus are not listed on the
form.
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48. Parts F and G require the confined space entry supervisor to be identified as well as the confined space
entry standby man. Both of the positions are mandatory. Requirements for each can be found in the
confined space chapter of the CSM.
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49. Let’s now spend some time looking at the hazard analysis checklist in more detail.
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50. The existing joint site inspection as per the old GI 2.100 was optional and not well structured.
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Review of peer companies/industry practice showed that others were conducting a final structured
review of the job site just prior to issuing a permit.
The Hazard Analysis Checklist was developed as a tool to prompt Issuers and Receivers to conduct a
structured joint site inspection that involves the evaluation of 20 of the most likely issues that may be
present at the job site.
This checklist is the cornerstone of the safer Work Permit System process introduced by the new
GI2.100.
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51. In order to help the Issuers and Receivers complete the checklist, we will take each question one by one
and provide you with some examples of what you should be looking for, thinking about or questions you
should be asking yourself while completing this very important step of the work permit process.
These are only examples and not an exhaustive list of what you should be looking for.
The hazard analysis checklist helps to ensure all hazards are identified and control measures are in place
before allowing the work to proceed. In this way it is a check to see that the items in section 2 on the
front of the permit form were correct.
Later on we will discuss how to use the hazard analysis checklist as part of the permit issuance process.
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52. Question 1: Is the correct type of permit(s) issued for the work?
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Hot Work Permit – Used for activities that may develop sparks, flames or heat sufficient to cause
ignition.
Cold Work Permit – Used for activities that will not produce sufficient energy to ignite flammable
atmospheres or combustible materials.
Confined Space Entry Permit – Used where any part of an employee’s body breaks the plane of entry
into a space that meets the definition of a confined space. Entry includes all periods of time when the
confined space is occupied.
Equipment Opening/Line Break Permit – Used for activities associated with the initial opening of
equipment, vessels or piping that is part of a closed system that contains (or has the potential to
contain) flammable, combustible, toxic or injurious materials (e.g., high-pressure steam).Examples we
discussed today.

Some jobs may require more than one work permit. For example, in a majority of cases when using a
Confined Space Entry Permit, a Cold or Hot Work Permit is also required depending on the work to be
performed within the confined space. An exception to this would be entry into a confined space to
perform activities such as visual inspection or gas testing does not require an additional work permit.
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53. Question 2: Have the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and other applicable supplementary forms been
communicated to the work crew?
What are some of the forms that might be attached to the work permit? (ask the class and wait for
answers)
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*Point out that these are the ones from Section 2 – hazard identification and control on the front of the
permit form.
a) Job Safety Analysis; A JSA is a tool used to identify and reduce or eliminate hazards associated
with each step of a job.
b) Gas test records; Form(s) that allows for additional gas tests to be recorded as part of the work
being performed. Periodic or continual monitoring may require more gas test record spaces
than are available on the form.
c) Isolation plan
d) Blind list; a list of blinds to be used as part of the isolation plan
e) Critical Lift Plan: Used for certain high-risk crane lifts. It is a document that identifies a specific
load and the operating restrictions
f) Excavation Checklist; a Checklist used to document the initial and daily inspections of
excavations.
g) Hydrotest (or pressure test) procedure(s): Required for all pressure tests with a high hazard
potential
h) Confined Space Entry Plan: Mandatory for all confined space entries - This plan is an attachment
to all CSE permits.
i) Confined Space Entry Log: Mandatory for all confined space entries - This log is a mandatory
attachment to all CSE permits and must be maintained at each entry point.
j) Other documents/forms: May include references to specific risk assessments, written work
procedures, plan of work, etc.
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54. Question 3: Are weather conditions (e.g., wind speed) acceptable to perform the work?
Question: What are some weather conditions we are concerned with? (wait for answers from class)
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a) Excavations and low-lying areas may have rain/flooding concerns during wet weather
b) Hot weather risks for exposed operations
c) Crane lifts – maximum wind speed of 32 kph
d) Manbasket operations – maximum wind speed of 25 kph
e) Work on elevated scaffolds – maximum wind speed of 65 kph
f) Foggy weather/low visibility risks
g) Wet/rainy conditions that could increase the likelihood of electrocution or working with
electrical hazards.

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55. Question 4: Are slip and trip hazards controlled?

Slips, trips and falls are the number one cause of disabling injuries for Saudi Aramco employees.
While these may be simple, they continue to occur at our sites.
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a) Workplace housekeeping/storage – trash, electrical cords, material placement
b) Uneven walking/working surfaces
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c) Spills and liquid/water concerns

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56. Question 5: Does the work crew have the correct tools/equipment for the job? Are they in good
condition?
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When we are talking about tools and equipment, we commonly ask the three diagnostic questions: is it
the right tool for the job, is it in good condition and is it being used properly?

a) The right tool for the job was selected

b) The tools are in good condition
c) The tools are being used properly
d) Homemade or improperly modified tools are not being used
e) All portable electric power tools at the work site are of a single voltage (110V or 220V)
f) Portable electric power tools are not modified from their manufactured state (e.g., plug swapped)
g) Portable electric power tools are certified by an independent testing and certification service (e.g., UL,
FM, KEMA-KEUR)
h) RCD/GFCI protection is provided for portable electric power tools
i) Electrical cords are not damaged or spliced

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57. Question 6:
Do personnel have the proper certifications to perform the activity and/or operate the equipment?
Question – what types of certifications may personnel need?
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a) Crane operators have a valid crane operator certificate

i. Manbasket endorsement for manbasket operations
ii. Tandem lift endorsement for tandem lift operations
iii. Jib boom endorsement when using the jib boom
b) All crane loads rigged by a certified rigger for the type and weight of the load to be lifted
c) Heavy equipment operators (including forklifts) have a valid heavy equipment operator certificate
d) All scaffold must be erected under the presence of a certified Scaffold Supervisor
e) Permit receivers have completed the required training and possess a valid receiver’s card.
f) Welding job clearance cards

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58. Question 7: Is the equipment inspection sticker valid?

Question – what types of equipment need inspection stickers?

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a) The following equipment must have a valid inspection sticker from a Saudi Aramco-approved third party
inspection service, per GI 7.030, Inspection and Testing Requirements for Elevating/Lifting Equipment
I. Cranes, both mobile and fixed
II. Side-boom tractors
III. Manlifts: hydraulic, scissor, telescoping, mast
IV. Powered Platforms/Skyclimbers
V. Spreader bars
VI. Manbaskets
b) Forklifts
c) Welding machine/air compressor
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59. Question 8: Have all requirements for working at heights (i.e., fall protection) been applied?
Question – at what point is fall protection required?
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a) Each person who could fall more than 1.8 m (6 ft) is protected from falling by a fall protection system.
May include:
I. Fixed fall protection systems (i.e., temporary or permanent platforms with a complete guardrail
system)
II. Personal fall arrest systems.
Fixed fall protection systems shall be considered the most favorable.
a) Personal fall arrest systems include a full-body harness, shock-absorbing lanyard or self-retracting
lifeline and a substantial anchor point and/or horizontal/vertical lifeline.
b) Harnesses are of the full-body type
c) Lanyards are either of the Double or “Y” leg lanyards with shock absorbers
d) Fall protection equipment meets ANSI Z359 standards
e) Has the fall protection equipment been inspected periodically?
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60. Question 9: Is the scaffold tag completed correctly, signed and with a valid inspection date?
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a) Does the tag number and holder number match?

b) Does the tag have evidence of being reused?
c) Is the tag holder mounted through a structural component of the scaffold?
d) Are tag holder(s) and tag(s) present at each access point to the scaffold?
e) Is the tag signed by a Scaffold Supervisor (all scaffolds with working level above 1.8 m)?
f) Is the tag signed by a Scaffold Inspector (if greater than 6 meters)?
g) Is the tag inspection still valid (i.e., not expired)?
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61. Question 10: Has the potential for the contact with sharp objects, rotating equipment, hot/cold
surfaces or live electricity been eliminated?
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a) Sharp objects: e.g., Rebar ends, sheet metals corners

b) Rotating Equipment: e.g., pump shafts, PTO drivelines
c) Hot/Cold Surfaces: e.g., heat exchanger,
d) Live Electricity: e.g., open electrical bus panel

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62. Question 11: Is the system/equipment properly isolated and locked out? Did all workers apply their
personal locks?
a. Energy type(s):
i. Hydraulic/gas/steam/chemical energy: e.g., pressurized hydraulic systems
ii. Mechanical energy: e.g., rotating shafts; spring loaded valves; agitators
iii. Electrical energy: e.g., switch gear isolation
iv. Hydraulic/pneumatic energy: e.g., pistons; shear rams; hydraulic cylinders
v. Potential (spring loaded, gravity) energy: e.g., elevated loads; pipe levelling devices;
spring loaded valve
vi. Automated extinguishing systems: e.g., cooking CO2 fire suppression systems; digital
control cabinet fire suppression systems
vii. Other energy
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63. Question 11: Is the system/equipment properly isolated and locked out? Did all workers apply their
personal locks?
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a) Equipment properly isolated
I. Locked switch/breaker: used for isolation of electrical energy sources
II. Mechanical block: used to prevent fin fan blades from rotating
III. Block valve: used for piping isolation – not an acceptable method for isolating a confined
space prior to entry
IV. Single block & bleed: used for piping isolation – not an acceptable method for isolating a
confined space prior to entry
V. Double block & bleed: used for piping isolation – not an acceptable method for isolating
a confined space prior to entry
VI. Blinding: Used for piping isolation. Acceptable method for isolating a confined space
prior to entry.
VII. Disconnect: Physical removal of a section of pipe (spool piece). Acceptable method for
isolating a confined space prior to entry.
b) Each worker has placed their own individual lock on the isolation point
c) All blinds are tagged
d) Lock/Tag/Clear/Try conducted
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64. Question 12: Has the system/equipment been depressurized, drained and/or purged before opening
it?
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a) Have procedures been followed and completed for the equipment preparation (e.g., nitrogen purged,
steam purged, water washed and drained)
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65. Question 13: Has the potential for releasing flammable liquids and gasses been controlled?
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a) Is the equipment fully isolated from all flammable sources, could pockets remain, such as low points and
dead legs?
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66. Question 14: Are all ignition sources eliminated or controlled?

HWP: Hot Work Permit
EOLB: Equipment Opening Line Break
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a) Area wetted: HWP, EOLB – to prevent combustible materials from igniting
b) Fire barriers/shields: HWP, EOLB – to separate open flame hot work and welding from other
areas
c) Cover/water seal all sewers within 23 m (75 ft): HWP – to prevent the escape of flammable
gasses
Remove all ignition sources within 23 m (75 ft): EOLB – to prevent the ignition sources from igniting any
flammable liquids or gasses that may be released when the equipment/piping is opened.
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67. Question 15: Does the fire watch have firefighting equipment readily available and know how to use
the equipment?
HWP: Hot Work Permit
EOLB: Equipment Opening Line Break
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a) Fire Watch needed: HWP, EOLB

b) Fire extinguisher present (and full/ready for use): HWP, EOLB
c) Fire monitor/hose available: HWP, EOLB
d) Has the surrounding area been wetted before hot work begins
e) Are other barriers / shields in place (e.g., fire blankets / sheeting prior to open flame activities)
f) Other fire protection equipment
g) Does the fire watch know how to use provided equipment?
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68. Question 16: Has the potential for exposure to high noise levels, H2S, hydrocarbons, asbestos,
hazardous chemicals or radioactive materials been controlled?
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a) High noise levels: e.g., steam shedding piping; relief systems; running compressors

b) H2S: e.g., sour gas lines, sewage lift stations

c) Hydrocarbons (flammable liquids and gasses): e.g., process piping and equipment

d) Asbestos: e.g., damaged / frayed / exposed asbestos insulation

e) Hazardous (and toxic) chemicals: e.g., Sulfuric acid, Chlorine

f) Radioactive materials: e.g., tank level indicators; NORM

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69. Question 17: Is the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) available for use by personnel?
Question – what three pieces of PPE is required for all restricted areas and project sites (hard hat,
safety glasses and safety shoes)
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a) Hard hat (mandatory for all restricted areas)

b) Safety glasses (mandatory for all restricted areas)

c) Safety shoes (mandatory for all restricted areas)

d) Personal H2S monitor – when potential for exposure to H2S is present

e) FRC (flame resistant clothing) – Is to be worn over or instead of ordinary clothing in order to reduce the
severity of burns resulting from flash fires, jet fires, electrical arc flashes, etc., and to provide protection
while the wearer escapes a fire incident.

f) Goggles/face shield – Is to be worn as needed to protect the face and neck from flying particles, sprays
of hazardous liquids, splashes of molten metal, etc.

g) Chemical suit/coveralls – to protect the body while handling acidic/corrosive liquids, or asbestos etc.

h) Fall protection – Is to be worn when working in locations where falls from more than 1.8 m (6 ft) may
occur and fixed fall protection systems are not provided

i) Barricades/warning signs – used to warn personnel of hazards in the area and /or PPE requirements.
Also, to keep unauthorized personnel out of specific spaces

j) Mechanical ventilation/blower – used to provide fresh air into confined spaces

k) Respiratory Protection – Is to be used by personnel exposed to air contaminants exceeding the

permissible exposure limit (PEL). May consist of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), supplied air
breathing apparatus (SABA), chemical cartridge respirator, dust mask, or others.
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Other protective equipment

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70. Question 18: If the work may impact others nearby, or vice versa, have the work crews discussed their
activities with each other (i.e., simultaneous operations [SIMOPS])?
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a) Your work, may impact others, or other work may impact your job. Coordination is needed to ensure
there are no conflicts, such as an equipment opening/line break job next to open welding.
b) Inform downwind activities when opening a closed vessel or piping upwind of others.
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71. Question 19: Is there an emergency contingency plan in place to respond to the work being
performed?
Here we are talking about the work crew having a plan in place in case their work activity has a problem
that needs to be immediately addressed. As examples, if it was a welding or torch cutting activity, it
could be to have a fire watch and fire fighting equipment. For NDT testing using a radioactive source, it
could be having plans in place to respond in case the source cannot be retracted back into its holder.
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a) What may go wrong at the job site and what precautions have been developed in response?
b) Standby Man needed to raise an alarm and support planned emergency response actions.
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72. Question 20: Does the work crew know what to do in the event of an emergency, such as evacuation
routes, location of emergency equipment and where assembly areas are located?

This is where we get back to the “in an emergency” section at the bottom of section 2 on the front of
the form. Does the work crew know what to do?
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a) “In an Emergency” section completed and actions to take are identified on the work permit.
b) Work crew knows what to do in the event of an emergency. Where is the assembly area, the evacuation
routes, the way to notify the facility that there is an emergency, etc.
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73. Let’s now walk through the joint site inspection and how exactly the hazard analysis checklist is used.
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74. The joint site inspection consists of two main parts, the atmospheric gas test and the hazard analysis
checklist.
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First, the atmospheric gas test is taken by a Saudi Aramco certified gas tester and the results are
evaluated against the gas test table. This is done because we want to make sure that the atmosphere is
safe before we spend time completing the hazard analysis checklist.
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Second, the hazard analysis checklist is completed and the issuer evaluates the results.
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Together these activities comprise the joint site inspection. A joint site inspection is MANDATORY and
must be done before issuing the work permit. Joint site inspections are not optional.
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75. As part of the joint site inspection we will first conduct the gas testing per GI 2.709.
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76. Then we evaluate the gas test results.

Here in our example, we have readings of:
H2S 0 ppm
LEL 0%
CO 0 ppm
O2 20.9%
Are these readings acceptable to perform the desired work? (wait for answer).
Yes – so we can move to the next step.
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77. The next step is to complete and sign the hazard analysis checklist.
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78. This Hazard Analysis Checklist is on the back of all four new Permit Forms. And it is the same for each
form.
The checklist represents a snapshot or picture of current site conditions. As such it is OK to have no
answers, as you are identifying actually what was occurring or present or on site.
In our example, during the site inspection we ended up answering “no” to the question: “is the correct
personal protective equipment available for use by personnel?” This means that we saw PPE was not
available.
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After answering all 20 questions, the issue (or designated representative) and the receiver sign the
hazard analysis checklist indicating that the questions were answered on site.
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79. After completing and signing the hazard analysis checklist, the issuer will evaluate the responses and
make any necessary changes to section 2, Hazard Identification and Control, on the front of the form.
Let’s look at this process so you have an idea of how it works.
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80. When evaluating the answers to the checklist questions, all answers must be “yes” or N/A” in order to
proceed with the issuance of the permit. Any answer that is a “no” is a stop point where the issuer and
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receiver need to analyze and develop methods to control the identified hazard and if needed, list the
additional precautions on the permit.
In our example you will recall that we answered “no” to the PPE question. We now need to go and
address this point.
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81. Depending on what the deficiency was the issuer will either go back and identify additional controls on
the front of the form or make sure that the needed controls are actually in place at the work site.
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In our example we failed to note that a face shield was needed. We would place a check in this box and
notify the receiver that this additional piece of PPE was needed.
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82. Once the additional PPE was at the work site, the issuer would then initial the back of the form next to
the “no” check.
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There is no need to scratch out the “no” and mark the “yes”. Just initialing next to the “no” is enough.
The issuer’s initials mean that the deficiency was corrected and that it is safe to continue with the
permit issuance process.
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83. Let’s take a look at work permit renewal, extending and closure briefly.
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84. Let’s talk about renewing work permits.

Question – how long can a work permit normally be issued for?
Work permits can be issued for one shift. If the work is not completed at the end of the shift, how
many times can the permit be renewed?
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Work permits can be renewed for one consecutive operating shift.
Question – what is the total duration of the work permit including the original issuance time and the
renewal?
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The total duration of the permit cannot exceed 24 hours.
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Gas tests, if required by the original permit, must be done for the permit renewal.
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The renewal requires the signatures of both the issuer and receiver coming on shift, and the notification
of all countersigning organizations.
Signing the work permit indicates complete agreement with the conditions stated on the form and
transfers the responsibility to the issuer/receiver coming on shift.
Any changes to the work scope, equipment used, job site hazards or precautions requires issuing new
work permit(s).
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85. What about extended permits?

Question – what is the maximum time that an extended work permit can be issued for?
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Extended work permits may be issued for a period greater than two consecutive operating shifts, but
not in excess of 30 days.
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This extended duration applies to prolonged construction or maintenance work where the job site
hazards and precautions remain unchanged.
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It must be highly unlikely that conditions will develop that would create an additional hazard to
personnel, damage to equipment or facilities, disruption in operations or harm to the environment.
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Both the issuing organization’s division head and the receiver organization’s division head (and
countersignature organizations’ division head, if applicable) agree to the job conditions and control
measures to be used and shall sign the work permit.
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It should hopefully go without saying that equipment opening/line break permits cannot be issued for
extended durations.
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86. How about closing a permit?

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After completion of the job or when the permit’s duration has expired, whichever comes first, the issuer
(or his designated representative) shall ensure a joint site inspection has been conducted with the
receiver to verify that the work area has been left in a safe and secure condition before the work permit
can be closed.
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Work permits shall be closed by both the issuer and the receiver signing the permit form.
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When distance and remoteness make signing impractical, an alternative closing method is determined
and stated on the work permit when it is issued.
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The issuer (proponent organization) shall keep the original copy of the work permit(s) for a minimum of
three months.

87. Sometimes, work needs to be temporarily suspended due to a failure to comply with the conditions of
the work permit.
If the issuer or receiver finds that there conditions on the permit are not being followed, then the work
needs to be temporarily suspended and the issue corrected before work can continue.
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There are times however, when work needs to be stopped and the work permits cancelled. These
include
When a change occurs in the work activities or site conditions that could potentially create an additional
hazard to personnel, damage to equipment or facilities, disruption in operations or harm to the
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environment. The reason the permit is canceled is because the changed site conditions or work
activities were not considered when identifying the potential hazards and control measures. A new
permit, with a new hazard analysis checklist needs to be completed.
Also, in the event of an emergency, all work permits are canceled within the area affected by the
emergency condition and as specified by the Incident Commander. Emergency work can be authorized
without applicable work permits under the direction of the Incident Commander. See GI 2.100 Para 8.0.
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88. Finally, let’s summarize the presentation.

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89. The Work Permit system has undergone its first major revision in the last 30 years. The way the
company handles its permit to work system has been fundamentally changed.

The revised GI2.100 Saudi Aramco Work permit system is an integral part of how Saudi Aramco manages
the hazards within its wide range of activities.

A work permit is not simply permission to carry out a hazardous activity, but is an essential part of a
greater process that determines the hazards associated with a particular activity and the precautions to
take so the job can be carried out safely. The issuing of a permit by itself does not make a job safe. Safe
execution of job site activities can only be achieved by those responsible for the preparation and
supervision of the work being carried out.

When issued, work permits always remember that is serve as an official records of conditions and
minimum safety precautions agreed upon by the work permit issuer and receiver to control hazards
associated with the work.
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90. Thank you, is there any last questions?