Formalized Procedures

Formalized procedures provide instructions needed to accomplish work safely. Formalized procedures should include:

• Operating procedures that describe the operating steps for the system, apparatus, and equipment in a facility.
• Safe work practices used to control hazards during operations such as lockout; confined space entry; opening equipment or piping; and control over entrance into a facility by maintenance, contractor, laboratory, or other support personnel.
• Management of change procedures that describe the method that will be used to review proposed changes to materials, technology, equipment, procedures, personnel and facility operation for their effect on safety vulnerabilities. (See Equipment Maintenance )
• "Stop Work" procedures establish the authority and responsibility, without reprisal, for workers to stop work when they discover that employees are exposed to conditions of imminent danger or to other hazards (e.g., leaking valves in a hydrogen system).
• Clear decision and communication chains for reacting to safety concerns/incidents, including formal approval to resume operations after issue has been addressed.
• Emergency response procedures for onsite personnel to ensure employee safety during an emergency situation at the facility (see Dealing with Incidents).