Hot Works Permit Phone Application

On this project their old permit system was structured to rely on subcontractors to inspect their work area by completing the internal compliance checklist prior to conducting hot works, this to evidence the works area is safe to proceed. This system was flawed and led to these checklists being completed off-site.

There was no notification system to evidence that the works have stopped or that the subcontractor has completed their fire watch duties, this then led to permits being closed out the following day.

A phone app has been developed that enables the subcontractor to raise the permit with a 2 step approval by a manager from the contractor and a Permit Manager is required before the works can commence.

The subcontractor is required to complete the internal compliance checklist at the workface and submit a live photo of the works area confirming all of the compliance items are in place, this live photo cannot be uploaded from the camera roll.

This places the responsibility back on the person conducting the hot works to ensure their work area is safe and free of any combustibles and flammables and 2 fire extinguishers

The permit closure request does also require a mandatory signature and name print confirming by questionnaire that a fire watch has been completed. This then sends a notification to the permit manager to instruct the end of day secondary fire watch.

A live digital interactive screen is present in the logistics office that displays all permits, their locations and status. The system can also be linked with a entry/exit card and will not allow a user to exit site if they have an outstanding ‘open’ hot works permit.