Analysis of international incident data indicates that the oil and gas industry continues to experience incidents directly linked to controllable activities. A recurring pattern reveals serious consequences – injuries, environmental damage, equipment failures, and project delays – being attributable to poorly planned high-risk work and inadequate risk control strategies.
These incidents frequently stem from fundamental permitting mistakes and common pitfalls, including:
- Selecting the wrong work category
- Relying on flawed information
- Failing to recognise site-specific hazards (such as flammable substances)
- Introducing ignition sources into hazardous environments
- Not complying with permit terms (e.g., inadequate isolation or drainage)
- Improper handover procedures involving unauthorised personnel performing critical functions
- Undermining the purpose of the Work Permit to Work (WPTW) system as a tool for work planning and risk control.
Ultimately, ineffective monitoring by Work Permit Authorities (WPAs) and Operating Company Representatives (OCRs) can exacerbate these vulnerabilities.
These repeated basic errors highlight the critical importance of using the WPTW system as intended: as a robust framework to verify that work only commences after foreseeable risks are clearly defined and meticulously controlled. This approach is essential for safeguarding individual well-being and maintaining the integrity of operations.
More information
For information about the WPTW system, contact our support centre on 1800 078 939, or email [email protected].