Introduction to Health and Safety at Work

Engineers (and others responsible for work 
covered by permits)
➤
ensure that permits are raised as required.
Contractors
The permit system should be applied to contractors in 
the same way as to direct employees.
The contractor must be given adequate informa-
tion and training on the permit system, the restrictions it 
imposes and the precautions it requires.
6.8 
Emergency procedures
6.8.1 Introduction
Most of this chapter is about the principles of control to 
prevent accidents and ill-health. Emergency procedures, 
however, are about control procedures and equipment 
to limit the damage to people and property caused by 
an incident. Local fi re authorities will often be involved 
and are normally prepared to give advice to employers.
Under Regulation 8 of the Management of Health 
and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, procedures must 
be established and set in motion when necessary to deal 
with serious and imminent danger to persons at work. 
Necessary links must be maintained with local authorities, 
Figure 6.11
Emergency services at work.

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Principles of control
93
particularly with regard to fi rst aid, emergency medical 
care and rescue work.
Although fi re is the most common emergency likely 
to be faced, there are many other possibilities, which 
should be considered including:
➤
gas 
explosion
➤
electrical burn or electrocution
➤
escape of toxic gases or fumes
➤
discovery of dangerous dusts like asbestos in the 
atmosphere
➤
bomb 
warning
➤
large vehicle crashing into the premises
➤
aircraft crash if near a fl ight path
➤
spread of highly infectious disease
➤
severe weather with high winds and fl ooding.