MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE FOR SAFE CONTROL OF OPERATIONS

Transcription

1 MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE FOR SAFE CONTROL OF OPERATIONS Policy Ref: GDN/PM/SCO/1 Title: Management Procedure for Safe Control of Operations Author: Julian Yaxley Job title: Policy Manager Issue Date: April 2015 Owner: Ian Aldridge GDN/PM/SCO/1

2 GDN/PM/SCO/1 2 of 78 Version Control Change record Change Date Changes made Author February 2015 Changes to document detailed in Appendix J Julian Yaxley Reviewers Name Position Date Andy Turner Policy Engineer September 2014 Derfel Jones Network Controller September 2014 Robert Gregory Network Controller September 2014 Colin Steer Authorising Engineer, West Midlands, CMAC September 2014 Andy Whayman Skill and Competence Specialist ER&R September 2014 Laurence McGurk Gas Safety Manager September 2014 Paul Reed Lead Development Specialist September 2014 Jordan Rowbottom I&C Asset Integrity Manager September 2015 Dominic Cummings Iain Foster David Tindall Engineering Policy Manager, Scotia Gas Networks Distribution Strategy and Standards Manager, Northern Gas Networks Process Safety, Standards and Assurance Manager, Wales and the West Gas Network December 2014 December 2014 December 2014 Kate Elleman Network Manager West Midlands January 2015 Brief history Management Approval See Appendix I & J Name Ian Aldridge Position Engineering Policy Manager UKD Implementation Implementation timescales Approved Published April 2015 Fully Implemented December 2015

3 GDN/PM/SCO/1 3 of 78 Contents Version Control... 2 Contents... 3 Document Summary Scope The purpose of safe control of operations (SCO) procedures The Suite of SCO Procedures References Definitions Types of permitry documentation When to use permitry documentation Permits to Work When to use a Permit to Work Form of Authority When to use a Form of Authority Non-Routine and Routine Operational Procedures When to use a Non-Routine and Routine Operational Procedure Electrical Isolation Certificates Chart 1 - Selection of Non Routine or Routine Operational Procedures Operational Site General Safety Instructions Emergency actions Responsibilities Individual Responsibility Employer Responsible Engineer (or equivalent appointment in Meter Asset company) Appointment of Network Controller and Meter Operations Controller Registration of Authorising Engineers/Competent Persons Access to information outside normal working hours Records Network Controller Appointments Co-ordination and communications Conflict management and provision of clearance to proceed Competency management... 25

4 GDN/PM/SCO/1 4 of Records Monitoring and audit Meter Operations Controller Appointment Co-ordination and communications Conflict management and provision of clearance to proceed Competency management Records Monitoring and audit Authorising Engineer Permitry preparation Co-ordination and communication Contingency plans Examination and authorisation Amendments to authorised permitry Routine and Non-Routine Operations authorised outside normal working hours Permit to Work and Forms of Authority Transferability (Change to Competent Person) Hand over (Delegated Authority) Records Monitoring and audit Deviation from company management and work procedures Competent Person Deviation from Safe Control of Operations Procedures Deviation from company management and work procedures Communications On-going appraisal of site conditions Implementation of contingency plan Line Manager Typical key responsibilities Authorisation requirements SCO competence / training / reassessment General SCO training... 36

5 GDN/PM/SCO/1 5 of SCO training - ongoing reassessment Competency validation SCO management system Transfer of individuals between different companies Employee transfers relating to major contract changes Records SCO Training Course Attendance Certificate SCO Competency Registration Register of Permitry Retention of Permitry documentation Permitry associated with project work Permitry associated with non-project related work Authorising Engineers and Competent Persons evidence of competency Auditing / monitoring / inspection requirements for safe control of operations in networks Management System Audit Regular Performance Monitoring Regular operational monitoring of Authorising Engineers performance Regular operational performance monitoring of Competent Persons Monitoring/inspection forms Audit / monitoring / inspection review Appendix A List of references Appendix B Definitions B1 - General B2 Personnel B3 - Documentation Appendix C - Operational site general safety instructions Appendix D - Information exchange between the network controller, meter operations controller and other relevant parties D1 - Planned work by a meter asset manager D2. Planned work on the network Appendix E - Isolation of supply meter installations E1. Gas supply isolations E2. Electrical isolations Appendix F - Specimen monitoring forms F1. Specimen Monitoring Form for Permit to Work (GDN/PM/SCO/2) F2. Specimen Monitoring Form for Form of Authority (GDN/PM/SCO/2)... 62

6 GDN/PM/SCO/1 6 of 78 F3. Specimen Monitoring Form for Non-Routine Operation (GDN/PM/SCO/4) F4. Specimen Monitoring Form for Routine Operation (GDN/PM/SCO/5).. 68 Appendix G - Pre-start checklist for routine operational procedures (GDN/PM/SCO/5) Appendix H - Authorisation Requirements Appendix I Brief history Appendix J Document changes End note... 78

7 GDN/PM/SCO/1 7 of 78 Document Summary Purpose This management procedure was approved by the Engineering Policy Manager, in for use throughout National Grid Gas Users should ensure that they are in possession of the latest edition and related bulletins by referring to the document library of Safety and Engineering documents available on the company Infonet. Compliance with this safety and engineering document does not confer immunity from prosecution for breach of statutory or other legal obligations. Disclaimer This safety and engineering document is provided for use by National Grid Gas and such of its contractors as are obliged by the terms and conditions of their contracts to comply with this document. Where this document is used by any other party it is the responsibility of that party to ensure that this document is correctly applied. Mandatory and Non-Mandatory requirements In this document: Shall: indicates a mandatory requirement. (Must: is equivalent of shall in some Networks) Should: indicates best practice and is the preferred option. If an alternative method is used then a suitable and sufficient risk assessment shall be completed to show that the alternative method delivers the same, or better, level of protection Background The purpose of this document is to inform all personnel who work on the UK gas infrastructure of the procedural requirements and their responsibilities under the Safe Control of Operation Permitry System. Note This document shall be applied throughout the gas industry on Distribution Networks and certain types of Meter Installations. National Grid Gas Transmission (which includes compressor stations and terminals) have their own specific suite of Safe Control of Operations documents (T/PM/SCO/91, 92 & 94). The document reference i.e. GDN/PM/SCO/1 ensures all stakeholders are aware that this document is universal for all work on the Distribution Networks. Permitry Definition The system used for the safe implementation of work under documentary control. Copyright 2015 National Grid Gas - All Rights Reserved

8 GDN/PM/SCO/1 8 of Scope The provision of systems of work that are, so far as is reasonably practical, safe and without risks to health is a duty on all employers from the Health and Safety at Work Act, etc., This procedure is intended: a) To assist personnel to determine when Permitry is necessary b) As far as possible to standardise the Permitry system throughout the gas industry. This procedure shall be applied with reference to the suite of Safe Control of Operations procedures together with other company management and work procedures. 2. The purpose of safe control of operations (SCO) procedures The Safe Control of Operations Procedures is a management system that provides safe systems of work for the control of hazardous or complex work activities associated with the receiving, transmitting, processing, distributing or storing gas. A key element of the management system is a permitry system which determines how work can be carried out safely, and helps communicate this to those doing the work and others who may be affected by it. It shall not be regarded as an easy way of avoiding the need to eliminate hazard or reduce risk. The issue of permitry does not, by itself, make work safe. The permitry should be regarded as a tool to assist those preparing for the work, those supervising the work and those carrying it out to minimise risk. In addition to the permitry system other precautions may need to be taken. The SCO procedures provide guidance for the implementation of additional controls that are necessary to protect both operational personnel that are engaged in various types of hazardous operations and others who may be affected by the works, and to control complex events that have the potential to cause loss of gas supplies.

9 GDN/PM/SCO/1 9 of 78 The procedures also ensure that only those personnel that have had their individual competencies matched to the required activity undertake or manage specific types of hazardous operations and/or complex events. The permitry system is intended to fulfil the following objectives: a) Provide an effective means for safe control of work to ensure the safety of personnel and the public, to protect plant and equipment from damage and prevent loss of gas supplies b) To clearly define the particular part of the Network or plant that is to be worked on c) To specify the work to be done d) To place a time limit on the work permitted to provide a means to avoid conflict between work areas and other activities and advise operating staff of work either planned or in progress e) Ensure only competent individuals are assigned to manage, authorise and carry out the work. f) To ensure that the Competent Person in charge of and supervising the work named on the permitry documentation is fully aware of the hazards, the precautions to be observed and the safety measures that need to put in place and maintained whilst undertaking the work g) To ensure that on completion of work, the plant or equipment is returned to a proper operational state (where appropriate) h) To ensure that a record of Plant and Permit status is maintained i) To ensure that only authorised individuals are given delegated authority (see note below) to give clearance to proceed for a specific part of the Network (Network Controller or meter installation (Meter Operations Controller) see Note below. NOTE: In item i) above the authority to provide clearance to proceed may be delegated by the Responsible Engineer to another individual for specific areas of a Network provided a formalised management agreement has been set up.

10 GDN/PM/SCO/1 10 of The Suite of SCO Procedures The suite of SCO procedures includes the following documents: Reference GDN/PM/SCO/2 GDN/PM/SCO/4 GDN/PM/SCO/5 GDN/PM/SCO/7 GDN/PM/SCO/10 T/PM/EL/6 Title Management Procedure for Issue of Permits to Work and Forms of Authority on the Network Management Procedure for the Control of Non Routine Gas Supply Operations Management Procedure for the Control of Routine Gas Supply Operations Management Procedure for Competency Matching Matrix for Authorising Engineers and Competent Persons Management Procedure for 7 Bar and Below System Final Connection Operation Validating the Competency of Utility Infrastructure Providers or Gas Transporter Personnel to Operate as Authorising Engineers and Competent Persons under Safe Control of Operations Procedures Management Procedure for Working on or Near Electrical Systems and Equipment at Gas Operational Sites 2.2. References Appendix A provides a list of all documents referred to in the SCO suite of management procedures. Note that other recommendations and legislation shall be adhered to for specific activities. Unless otherwise specified the latest editions of the documents apply, including all addenda and revisions Definitions Appendix B provides a list of definitions that are utilised within the SCO suite of management procedures. 3. Types of permitry documentation The consideration and application of necessary precautions is formalised by the provision of a co-ordinated system of paperwork. Permitry documentation is applicable to various parts of the gas Distribution Networks including certain types of gas metering installations, as follows:

11 GDN/PM/SCO/1 11 of 78 Permit to Work Form of Authority Non-Routine Operational Procedure Routine Operational Procedure Electrical Isolation Certificates (Refer to T/PM/EL/6) The above documentation is often referenced as written procedures for non-routine and routine operational procedures and all the other forms are referenced as permits. 4. When to use permitry documentation Distribution Networks and certain types of gas metering installations The requirement for applying PTW, FOA, NRO and RO permitry documents is now described. NOTE: Gas meter installations include those that are part of the National and Local Transmission Systems, those with remote operable emergency control valves, load sensitive industrial sites, daily metered supply points and those sites that have a contractual agreement for system enhanced pressures set above the Lowest Operating Pressure. Information on the location of these gas meter installations can be obtained from the Meter Operations Controller Permits to Work A Permit to Work is a formal written document used to control certain types of work activities that are potentially hazardous. It specifies the work to be done and the precautions that shall be undertaken. Permits to Work form an essential part of safe systems of work for many work activities and they provide a clear record that a Permit to Work is required where a risk assessment identifies there is considerable risk, either to personnel or plant calling for special safeguards. They allow work to start only after all foreseeable hazards have been assessed and control measures put in place to safeguard both the individuals carrying out the work and all others who may be affected by the work.

12 GDN/PM/SCO/1 12 of When to use a Permit to Work A Permit to Work shall be issued for the following work activities: a) Work in known asphyxiating atmospheres b) Work in potentially hazardous atmospheres (refer to Note 1 below) c) Entry into confined spaces in accordance with company standards and/or other industry equivalent d) Work in excavations where access or egress requires assistance (e.g. a ladder) or as required by a risk assessment (e.g. use of mechanical excavators in deep excavations) e) Hot work, e.g. burning, welding, grinding on live or decommissioned plant (see Note 2) f) Demolition work g) Work on plant containing or that has contained toxic or flammable materials, e.g. chemicals, radioactive sources, etc. h) Pressure testing as determined by company procedures and/or industry standards i) Lifting operations over live plant by mechanical assisted lifting apparatus j) Other than the above, any other works where a risk assessment identifies the need for a Permit to Work, e.g. Working at Heights, etc. k) It is also advisable to use a Permit to Work when two or more individuals or groups of people, perhaps from different disciplines, contractors or organisations who undertake work on the Networks or meter installations need to co-ordinate their activities to ensure their work is completed safely. This should apply equally when there is a transfer of work and responsibilities from one group to another.

13 GDN/PM/SCO/1 13 of 78 Notes: 1. Routine work such as, fitting a repair clamp to a leaking low pressure main or entry into pits for routine maintenance, subject to a hazard assessment, should not normally require a Permit to Work. 2. Hot Work is usually taken to apply to an operation that could include the application of heat or ignition sources to tanks, vessels, pipelines, etc., which may contain or have contained flammable vapour and or involves the emission of toxic fumes from the application of heat, within areas where flammable atmospheres may be present. A Permit to Work covering Hot Works, in association with an NRO where appropriate, will be applied to any welding, brazing, flame cutting, sample scraping or when spark-producing grinding wheels are to be used, this list is not exhaustive and other similar work types could apply. For further guidance refer to Table Form of Authority A Form of Authority is a formal written document that is for use on operational sites to provide an authorisation for work to be carried out which does not require a Permit to Work, and for work which is not authorised as part of a written procedure The object of the Form of Authority is to ensure such work is being undertaken with adequate safety precautions, the Authorising Engineer has full knowledge of work being undertaken and no jobs conflict When to use a Form of Authority Typical examples of work that may be controlled by a Form of Authority (the list below is non-exhaustive) are as follows: a) Minor works on Above Ground Installations, Pressure Reduction Stations, Holder Stations or District Governors, such as grass cutting, fence repairs (not involving excavation works), repairs to doors, windows, etc.

14 GDN/PM/SCO/1 14 of 78 b) Visual inspections, e.g. by civil or environmental personnel. c) Other than the above, any other non-intrusive minor works where a risk assessment identifies the need for a Form of Authority Non-Routine and Routine Operational Procedures A Non-Routine Operational procedure is a formal written document used to control complex operations and is predominantly, but not exclusively, associated with ensuring the security of the gas supply system for the medium, intermediate and high pressure systems as well as the low pressure system on pipe diameters above 12 /300 mm metallic and 355 mm PE. The procedure specifies how the work is to be carried out; the personnel, location, mains, timing and required notifications to ensure that there is no conflict with other operations and is completed with a contingency plan. A Routine Operational procedure is a formal written document used to control less complex operations and is predominantly, but not exclusively, associated with work on the low pressure system on pipe diameters up to and including 12 /300 mm metallic and 355 mm PE. The procedure describes how the operation will be undertaken and also the preparatory works and safety equipment checks needed prior to starting When to use a Non-Routine and Routine Operational Procedure A Selection Chart (Refer to Chart 1 - Selection of Non-Routine or Routine Operational Procedures overleaf) has been developed to assist permitry authors and Authorising Engineers identify and select the appropriate operational procedure on the basis of the activity being performed. In all cases Authorising Engineers shall assure themselves that the correct operational procedure is being applied. Where any doubt exists contact the Network Controller in the first instance. Non-routine and routine operational procedures other than those listed in the following chart may be applied whenever necessary, e.g. when pipeline investigation work may result in the necessity to

15 GDN/PM/SCO/1 15 of 78 generate a Non-routine operational procedure in order to complete the operation Electrical Isolation Certificates For work on electrical equipment refer to T/PM/EL/6 - Management Procedure for Working on or Near Electrical Systems and Equipment at Gas Operational Sites for the appropriate electrical permitry documents.

16 GDN/PM/SCO/1 16 of 78 1 Chart 1 - Selection of Non Routine or Routine Operational Procedures ACTIVITY Squeeze off, valve closure, installation of top tees, encirclement fitting [including drilling] [1] 2 Bagging off inc. foam plug 3 Bagging off inc.foam plug 4 Iris Stop 5 Iris Stop 6 Flow Stop 7 Flow Stop 8 Stopple operation 9 Stopple operation Closure of Valve (see row 28 for valve closure under routine maintenance) Closure of Valve (see row 28 for valve closure under routine maintenance) 12 Encirclement fitting [including drilling] [1] [2] 13 Encirclement fitting [including drilling] [1] Main, Service or Pipeline Diameter Range Plastic up to and including 63mm or metallic up to and including 2 /50mm regardless of size of parent main - mains and services Metallic or PE greater than 2 /50mm/90mm up to and including 12 /300mm/355mm - main or service PE greater than 355mm or Metallic greater than 12 /300mm main or service Metallic greater than 3 /75mm up to and including 12 /300mm - main or service Metallic greater than 12 /300mm main or service Metallic greater than 2 /50mm up to and including 12 /300mm - main or service Metallic greater than 12 /300mm main or, service Greater than 2 /50mm up to and including 12 /300mm/355mm - main, service or pipeline Greater than 12 /300mm main, service or pipeline Metallic greater than 2 /50mm up to and including 12 /300mm/355mm - main, service or pipeline Metallic greater than 12 /300mm - main, service or pipeline Metallic greater than 2 /50mm up to and including 12 /300mm - main, service or pipeline Metallic greater than 12 /300mm main, pipeline or service Below 75mb RO NRO NRO Above 75mbar up to 2 bar NRO NRO NRO NRO Above 2 bar up to 7 bar NRO RO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO 14 Nipple Insertion [1] [2] Any diameter main or service NRO NRO 15 Squeeze off or Stopple on PE pipes Plastic greater than 63mm and up to and including 355mm - main or service Above 7 bar NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO RO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO RO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO RO NRO NRO 16 Squeeze off or Stopple on PE pipes Plastic greater than 355mm main or service NRO NRO NRO Closure of Valve (see row 28 for valve closure under routine maintenance) Closure of Valve (see row 28 for valve closure under routine maintenance) Commissioning by direct purging by the [2] controlled use of squeeze off on offtake tee Commissioning by direct purging by the controlled use of squeeze off on offtake tee Connection to stub end [2] (to include controlled purging/commissioning) Connection to stub end (to include controlled purging/commissioning) Plastic greater than 63mm and up to and including 355mm - main or service RO NRO NRO Plastic greater than 355mm main or service NRO NRO NRO Plastic greater than 63mm and up to and including 355mm - main or service Plastic greater than 355mm and up to and including 500mm - main or service Plastic greater than 63mm and up to and including 355mm or Metallic greater than 2 /50mm up to and including 12 /300mm - Main, service or pipeline Plastic greater than 355mm or Metallic greater than 12 /300mm - Main, service or pipeline RO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO RO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO

17 GDN/PM/SCO/1 17 of ACTIVITY Connection to valve, nipple or [1] [2] Under pressure tee (to include controlled purging/commissioning via a rider) Connection to valve or [1] Under pressure tee (to include controlled purging/commissioning via a rider) Connection by branch saddle [1] [2] (to include controlled purging/commissioning via a rider) 26 Pressure testing Any other activity which could affect the normal operation of gas handling, storage and pressure controlled installations, telemetered supplies or have an impact upon significant parts of the Network system Valve movement under routine maintenance Main, Service or Pipeline Diameter Range Plastic greater than 63mm and up to and including 355mm or metallic greater than 2 /50mm and up to and including 12 /300mm - main or pipeline Plastic greater than 355mm or metallic greater than 12 /300mm - main or pipeline Plastic greater than 63mm and up to and including 355mm - main or pipeline Refer to Main and Service Laying Management and Work Procedures for MOP up to 7bar Below 75mb Above 75mbar up to 2 bar Above 2 bar up to 7 bar Above 7 bar RO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO RO NRO NRO NRO NRO NRO N/A NRO NRO NRO NRO Any Size Carried out in accordance with standard routine maintenance procedures and processes to avoid conflict of operations. Where appropriate supported by local RO s or NRO s 29 Hot Works on live pipelines [3] Any Size NRO NRO NRO NRO 30 NOTES Works on the following gas meter installations or works that could affect such gas meter installations Gas meter installations with remotely operable emergency control valves, NTS/LTS meter installations, daily metered supplies, load sensitive supply points and those supply points that have contractual agreements for system enhanced pressures set above the Lowest Operating Pressure Carried out in accordance with standard routine maintenance procedures and processes to avoid conflict of operations. Where appropriate supported by local RO s or NRO s 1. Refers to the diameter of the branch of the under pressure tee or branch saddle fitted. Work includes drilling and commissioning of branch outlet by rider. Where encirclement fittings with branch outlets of up to and including 2 /50mm/63mm diameter for low and medium pressure main and service connections no RO or NRO documentation is required. 2. Where the operation requires a RO, the complete RO shall be forwarded to the Network Controller, with the exception of those indicated [2] and all works on low pressure mains and services up to and including 6 /150mm/180mm diameter, where the minimum requirement is for the front sheet only of the RO to be forwarded to the Network Controller. 3. Hot Work is usually taken to apply to an operation that could include the application of heat or ignition sources to tanks, vessels, pipelines, etc., which may contain or have contained flammable vapour and or involves the emission of toxic fumes from the application of heat, within areas where flammable atmospheres may be present. A Permit to Work covering Hot Works, in association with an NRO where appropriate, will be applied to any welding, brazing, flame cutting, sample scraping or when spark-producing grinding wheels are to be used, this list is not exhaustive and other similar work types could apply. For further guidance refer to Table 1 MISCELLANEOUS NOTES Any decommissioning works associated with the particular activity shall be included within the RO/NRO. Non-standard materials such as PVC or Asbestos will attract the same requirements as metallic mains and services of similar diameters. Non-routine and Routine operational procedures other than those listed may be applied whenever necessary. In all cases Authorising Engineers shall assure themselves that the correct management and work procedures are being applied.

18 GDN/PM/SCO/1 18 of 78 Table 1 The Application for permitry in relation to Hot Works activities Criteria for Hot Works application The application of heat or ignition sources to tanks, vessels, pipelines, etc., which may contain or have contained flammable vapour, or in areas where flammable atmospheres may be present i.e. Any burning, welding, flame cutting, grinding, taking sample scrapings etc. Permit To Work (PTW) See Section 2.1 (GDN/PM/ SCO/2) for other risks to be managed NRO Hot Works (PTW) Form Of Authority (FOA) Yes Yes No Pin brazing The emission of toxic fumes from the application of heat Minor Works on Above Ground Installations, Pressure Reduction Stations, Holder Stations or District Governors (not involving excavation works), i.e. repairs to doors, windows, etc. utilising hand held equipment. Visual Inspections, e.g. by civil or environmental persons involving recording via video or camera equipment. See Section 2.1 (GDN/PM/ SCO/2) for other risks to be managed See Section 2.1 (GDN/PM/ SCO/2) for other risks to be managed Yes If site hazards are judged to be significant Yes If site hazards are judged to be significant No Yes No No Yes No No No *Yes No No *Yes *Specific attention is drawn to the FOA requirements of Box 2 Hazard identification including Atmosphere Checks and Box 3 in conjunction with The Operational Site General Safety Instructions specifically item 13. (GDN/PM/SCO/2 Appendices C and A)

19 GDN/PM/SCO/1 19 of Operational Site General Safety Instructions In addition to the permitry requirements set out above personnel shall also follow the requirements set out in the operational site general safety instructions (Appendix C) when working on an operational site. Additional precautions may also be applicable to certain operational sites and also joints sites operated by both National Grid Gas National Transmission and the Distribution Networks Emergency actions Following an uncontrolled event, the written documentation processes set out within GDN/PM/SCO/1/2/4/5 and T/PM/EL/6, are not required for work necessary to prevent imminent danger to life. T/PM/EM/71 Management Procedures for Dealing with Gas Escapes and Other Emergencies details the actions to be taken at gas escape sites. Work procedures give requirements and guidance on repair activities. However, prior to carrying out any work, the person in charge at the site during the uncontrolled event should follow the assessment principles in the Safe Control of Operations and Electrical documents and shall be satisfied that all reasonable and practicable precautions have been taken to minimise risks or eradicate any potential hazards. Immediately the imminent danger has been averted, work should proceed as described below or following the normal procedures. Where the potential threat to property or gas supplies still exists, then the assessment/procedures stated in GDN/PM/SCO1/2/4/5 shall still be used. Documentation should be substituted with hand written notes following the appropriate format. Appropriate authorisation should be obtained and the details logged. Once the event is under control the appropriate documentation shall be submitted to the Network Controller as soon as reasonably practical. No urgent work shall be carried out on electrical power systems/equipment until a suitable Competent Person authorised under T/PM/EL/6, approves the work, (refer to T/PM/EL/6).

20 GDN/PM/SCO/1 20 of 78 An appropriate Authorising Engineer(s) should visit the site as soon as practicable, confirm that the risks have been assessed, and appropriate actions taken. The Authorising Engineer should then issue appropriate documentation in accordance with the normal procedures described in GDN/PM/SCO/1/2/4/5 and T/PM/EL/6 for all further work. All non-routine operations shall be carried out in accordance with a written non-routine operational procedure as prepared and authorised under GDN/PM/SCO/4 - Control of Non-Routine Gas Supply Operations, in addition to conforming to company management and work procedures. All routine operations shall be carried out in accordance with a written routine operational procedure as prepared and authorised under GDN/PM/SCO/5 - Control of Routine Gas Supply Operations, in addition to conforming to company management and work procedures. 5. Responsibilities It is acknowledged that organisations/companies using these management procedures vary greatly in size. The requirements set out below should be reflected to recognize the size of such organisations/ companies to ensure that the correct standards are applied and met whilst not being seen as anti-competitive to the smaller sized organisations/companies Individual Responsibility No person is absolved from the responsibility for their own safety or that of others. Any person is entitled and expected to check that the plant or any item to be worked with, is safe to use prior to commencing work Any person may ask for any reasonable additional safety precautions to be taken.

21 GDN/PM/SCO/1 21 of Employer The primary responsibility for compliance with legal requirements rests with the Employer who shall: Nominate in writing one or more Responsible Engineer(s) and deputy(s) for all work types, clearly stating the specific parts of the gas supply network covered by each Responsible Engineer. Ensure that, so far as is reasonably practicable, that Responsible Engineers or nominated deputies appointed by him/her have the qualifications, skills, training, knowledge, experience and personal qualities necessary for the proper exercise of professional judgement. Have systems and procedures in place to ensure that the exercise of professional judgement is subject to appropriate monitoring and review Responsible Engineer (or equivalent appointment in Meter Asset company) Responsible Engineer s appointed by the Employer for managing the Safe Control of Operation Procedures should have a broad range of technical knowledge ideally from a number of disciplines/processes, e.g. Network Integrity, Operations, etc Appointment of Network Controller and Meter Operations Controller The Responsible Engineer shall appoint a competent person to discharge the duties of Network Controller and shall define the scope of the Network. The Responsible Engineer can delegate (formally in writing) control of all or parts of the Network for defined periods to an alternate Network Controller. In these circumstances the alternate Network Controller would need to undertake the full role of Network Controller in that area and not just conflict checking activity. Suitable processes shall be developed to ensure operational integrity.

22 GDN/PM/SCO/1 22 of Registration of Authorising Engineers/Competent Persons The Responsible Engineer shall be satisfied that there is a process for substantiating the evidence submitted by reviewing managers for the individuals to become an Authorising Engineer and/or Competent Person is adequate prior to registration on a Network SCO database, (see Note below). Prior to assessment as Authorising Engineer / Competent Person or expansion of the categories for which a person is registered, it is recognised as good practice that a candidate should assess / carry out a range of appropriate procedures under the mentorship of an appropriately skilled, experienced and registered Authorising Engineer. The Responsible Engineer should note such successfully completed procedures as direct evidence supporting the candidate s assessment as Authorising Engineer / Competent Person. NOTE: T/PM/EL/6 contains specific competency requirements in regard to electrical work, which shall be carried out in compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 For new entrants or an upgrade in competence a mentoring programme shall be agreed between the Line Manager and the individual. The following evidence shall be gained and submitted prior to the appointment as an Authorising Engineer / Competent Person

23 GDN/PM/SCO/1 23 of 78 Mentored Permitry Type Permit to Work Authorising Engineer Desktop inspection only N/A Site inspections First 3 PTW undertaken (1)(3) Competent Person Site inspections First 3 PTW undertaken (1)(3) Form of Authority First FOA 1 (3) 3 (3) Non-routine procedure Routine procedure(s) First 3 NRO undertaken (2) 1 (3) 3 (3) First 3 RO undertaken 1 (3) 3 (3) Table 2 - Minimum mentoring evidence required for Authorising Engineer / Competent Person applicants Notes (1) This shall be for each specific work type, e.g. deep excavation, hot works, lifting operations, etc. (2) This should be for each site type on application, e.g. Low Pressure, Medium Pressure, etc. (3) Each site inspection shall be fully documented, (the use of the specimen monitoring forms referenced within Appendices F could serve this purpose) Access to information outside normal working hours The Responsible Engineer shall ensure that information, regarding the status of the network, is available to emergency standby personnel and Network Analysis personnel, outside normal working hours, in an agreed accessible format and that all such persons within his/her Network, are aware of how to access this information Records The Responsible Engineer shall ensure competence and training records provided to support registration are maintained as stated in Section 8.

24 GDN/PM/SCO/1 24 of Network Controller Appointments Within the Distribution Networks (including the Local Transmission Systems {LTS}) there shall be an appointed Network Controller (who may control one or more Networks) who is the point of contact for those wishing to undertake work on the Distribution Network and LTS Co-ordination and communications The Network Controller shall ensure that there is co-ordination and co-operation between all internal and external organisation s proposed work. The Network Controller shall maintain the internal and external communication links to ensure that all persons affected by the work (e.g. those in adjacent Networks, Meter Asset Managers, GNCC, etc.) are notified in advance of the work and have the opportunity to approve or supply relevant data (e.g. network analysis) Conflict management and provision of clearance to proceed The Network Controller is responsible for conflict management of procedures that can affect Network security of supply in their own Network and is also responsible for liaising with adjacent Distribution Networks/NTS and as appropriate check planned or progressing work for any potential conflict, then provide the final Clearance to Proceed. This may include situations where other Gas Transporters have provided this information. Reference should be made to Section 5.6.2, which outlines the responsibility of Authorising Engineers regarding conflict checking for operations, which they specifically authorise within their normal geographical area for works authorised by them. Notes: Appendix D provides details of work activities that may affect the operation of a supply meter installation and the requirement to exchange information with the relevant parties.

25 GDN/PM/SCO/1 25 of 78 Appendix E provides details regarding the use of isolation valves that may isolate supply meter installations Competency management The Network Controller shall maintain as directed by the Responsible Engineer, a register of notified permitry and personnel who have been validated to undertake work on the Network. This register will be used by the Network Controller to validate the competency of individuals undertaking works. At the time of periodic competency review, the Network Controller shall receive confirmation of the AE and CP competency status. Failure to obtain such information will result in a suspension of the individual s registration and hence ability to carry out operations under the Safe Control of Operations Procedures, equally adherence to EL6 requirements for registering competent persons applies. The Network Controller shall also refer to GDN/PM/SCO/10 for additional responsibilities concerning the validation of competencies of Utility Infrastructure Provider or Gas Transporter personnel to act as Authorising Engineers and Competent Persons under the Safe Control of Operations Procedures Records The Network Controller shall retain records as stated in Section Monitoring and audit The Network Controller shall support the monitoring and audit requirements detailed in Section 9.

26 GDN/PM/SCO/1 26 of Meter Operations Controller Appointment The Meter Operations Controller is the Meter Asset Managers point of contact for those who undertake work on their specific metering installations, or work on the Network where this may affect or interact with the operation of the meter installation appointed by the equivalent appointed person within the Meter Asset Company Co-ordination and communications The Meter Operations Controller shall ensure that there is coordination and co-operation between all internal and external organisations proposed work. Appendix D gives details of the scope of the Meter Operations Controller s direct control of isolations of supply meter installations. The Meter Operations Controller shall maintain the internal and external communication link to ensure that all persons affected by the work (e.g. those in adjacent Distribution networks, GNCC, customers, Shippers, etc.) are notified in advance of the work and have the opportunity to approve work procedures or supply information and data relevant to the proposed work. (e.g. the customers own permit to work procedures) Conflict management and provision of clearance to proceed The Meter Operations Controller shall assess the overall effect of the proposed work procedure on the meter installation, Network (including any interface with GNCC or DNCC) and customers and as appropriate check planned or progressing work for any potential conflict. The Meter Operations Controller, and where appropriate the Network Controller, shall provide the final clearance to proceed for work to start Competency management The Meter Operations Controller shall maintain on behalf of the Responsible Engineer a register of all written procedures and personnel who have been validated to undertake work on metering installations.

27 GDN/PM/SCO/1 27 of Records The Meter Operations Controller shall retain records as stated in Section Monitoring and audit The Meter Operations Controller shall support the monitoring and audit requirements within Sections 6.4 and 9.

28 GDN/PM/SCO/1 28 of Authorising Engineer The Authorising Engineer CANNOT authorise an RO/NRO prepared by him/herself Permitry preparation The Authorising Engineer shall ensure the safe design and planning of the proposed operation and that all forms of permitry are prepared in accordance with Safe Control of Operations documentation. The Authorising Engineer shall determine which Competent Person is to be responsible for each operation. Permitry shall be authorised by the Authorising Engineer Co-ordination and communication The Authorising Engineer should liaise with the Network Controller and Meter Operations Controller at the planning stages of a nonroutine or routine procedure to ensure that relevant current information is obtained to enable the proper planning and design of procedures and where appropriate the contingency plan. The Authorising Engineer shall liaise with the Network Controller/Process Controller and Meter Operations Controller to ensure that all persons affected by the work (e.g. those in adjacent Distribution networks, Meter Asset Managers, GNCC, etc.) are notified and any conflicts identified/resolved in advance of the works, and the opportunity to approve or supply relevant data (e.g. network analysis) has been provided. Authorising Engineers are responsible for conflict checking their own operations they specifically authorise within their normal geographical area Contingency plans Non-routine operational procedures shall contain on and off-site emergency contingency plans. The Authorising Engineer, in liaison with the Network Controller shall ensure that where applicable the contingency plan is suitable and sufficient. The Authorising Engineer shall ensure that facilities/resources to implement the emergency contingency plan are readily available in the event that the plan has to be implemented. If a contingency plan is evoked the Authorising Engineer (or Competent Person) shall contact the personnel identified in the contingency plan and request their services to implement the off-site

29 GDN/PM/SCO/1 29 of 78 contingency plan. The Network Controller shall be informed of the situation at the earliest opportunity Examination and authorisation The Authorising Engineer shall carry out a thorough and detailed examination of the proposed permitry and then as appropriate authorise the documents. Where necessary comments shall be added to the documentation or returned to the originator for amendment and resubmission. The Authorising Engineer is accountable for the signed off permitry. Where permitry requires two or more Authorising Engineers signatures (e.g. Non-routine operations where different disciplines are participating), the final signatory shall ensure that the above responsibilities are discharged. During the period whilst work is being undertaken as part of a procedure, the Authorising Engineer shall have sole operational responsibility for that part of the Network for which he/she has received clearance to proceed with the work. He/she may delegate this responsibility from time to time to another Authorising Engineer having the required competencies to authorise the procedure provided the Network Controller has been advised and the acceptability of such persons is confirmed, (e.g. to provide cover during periods of holidays, sick leave, etc.) Amendments to authorised permitry The Authorising Engineer is allowed to make amendments to the permitry where the Competent Person supervising or carrying out the works has identified an anomaly between the authorised documentation and the on-site conditions either prior to starting or during the works. The Authorising Engineer shall use his/her engineering judgement to approve a deviation from the written permitry or abort the works. Any deviation shall be clearly written on the permitry, refer to GDN/PM/SCO/4 and 5 section Routine and Non-Routine Operations authorised outside normal working hours In the event that a written procedure requires checking for potential conflicting work outside of normal working hours, i.e. following an

30 GDN/PM/SCO/1 30 of 78 uncontrolled event where the immediate imminent danger has been averted, the Authorising Engineer shall liaise with appropriate Emergency Standby Engineers, Network Analysis, GNCC, DNCC, etc., to satisfy themselves that no other potential conflicting work is progressing Permit to Work and Forms of Authority In addition to the specific duties outlined elsewhere in this document, the Authorising Engineer shall visit site when issuing a Permit to Work to confirm that the conditions of the Permit can be met, brief the Competent Person, advise any other persons (on or off site) who may be affected and satisfy themselves that the work can proceed in a safe manner. The Authorising Engineer is responsible for ensuring that Permits to Work and Forms of Authority are only issued to Competent Persons. Where necessary the Authorising Engineer can contact the Network Controller to check that the proposed individual to be issued with the Permit to Work, Form of Authority, etc. has the necessary competence Transferability (Change to Competent Person) If the Competent Person is unable to start/continue the work for any reason, e.g. due to illness, the Authorising Engineer shall nominate and brief a new Competent Person and either issue a new Permit to Work/Form of Authority, or endorse the changes on the existing Permit to Work/Form of Authority/NRO/RO. For a Permit to Work this shall be carried out on site. Notify the Network Controller at the earliest opportunity. In cases where work is continuous, e.g. working shifts, there may be a need for more than one Competent Person. A local procedure shall be developed for this, which will call for the Competent Person to be clearly identified on the permitry with appropriate precautions including the handover process Hand over (Delegated Authority) For any circumstance as described in sections and that leads to a delegation of authority for a change to AE or CP, a full hand over process shall be undertaken to ensure the nominated

31 GDN/PM/SCO/1 31 of 78 person has full knowledge and understanding of the operation that he/she is to manage. All associated documentation shall be both clear and concise to ensure effective control throughout i.e. fit for purpose Records The Authorising Engineer shall retain records as stated in Section Monitoring and audit The Authorising Engineer shall ensure that the monitoring and audit requirements detailed in Section 9 are completed as appropriate Deviation from company management and work procedures Where the work cannot be undertaken in accordance with current company procedures, the Authorising Engineer should refer the matter in accordance with the technical authority levels as set out by the company unless the deviation is required to avert immediate danger.

32 GDN/PM/SCO/1 32 of Competent Person The Competent Person is the person responsible for overall control of activities at all sites involved in an operation. He/she shall remain in attendance at the location(s) of operational activities whilst work is in progress, unless specifically stated within the procedure. For operations with multiple sites, each site shall be under the direct control of a competent person who shall be named on the relevant documentation. It is the responsibility of the Competent Person to bring to the attention of the Authorising Engineer that a particular work type is being undertaken for the first time or has been undertaken infrequently, and to request for mentorship to either discuss the work or arrange for a mentor to attend the site whilst the work is being undertaken. One person cannot simultaneously fulfil the roles of Authorising Engineer and Competent Person for the same operation To increase the effectiveness of routine and non-routine operational procedures it is preferable for the Competent Person to prepare those they have been assigned to carry out or supervise. The Competent Person shall always have the written permitry available on-site during the operation Deviation from Safe Control of Operations Procedures The Competent Person has NO authority to deviate from the written Safe Control of Operation procedure unless the Authorising Engineer has granted authority Deviation from company management and work procedures The Competent Person has NO authority to deviate from current Engineering Procedures. If the work cannot be undertaken in accordance with current company procedures, the situation shall be referred to the Authorising Engineer Communications The Competent Person in overall control shall be clearly identified on relevant documentation, and shall ensure that adequate communication is established for multiple site situations prior to starting the operation. In addition, the Competent Person shall