WORK AUTHORIZATION - WORK PERMITS FOR ELECTRICAL WORKS

Before beginning any work, particularly in an existing operating facility, a person should receive a request to do the work from the custodian, thoroughly plan the job, review the job plan with the custodian, and obtain permission from the facility manager to proceed with the work.

Some kind of work authorization document is advisable to ensure that everyone who may be affected is aware of what is going on. In addition to approvals, this document could contain a checklist of safety items that should be considered before proceeding with the work.

The work authorization document forces people to think about the safety aspects of the job. This concept applies to all kinds of work, not just electrical.

Again, when performing electrical work in a country other than the U.S., make sure that any laws of the country that may be applicable to the job being performed are known.