General Permit-to-Work (PTW) System Audit Checklist

This general Permit-to-Work (PTW) system audit checklist ensures compliance with ISM Code Section 7 (Shipboard Operations - Procedures for Key Shipboard Operations), OCIMF SIRE PTW requirements, STCW requirements for safe shipboard operations, and company Safety Management System permit-to-work procedures. An effective PTW system is the primary safeguard against incidents during non-routine maintenance and hazardous work operations at sea.

  • Industry: Maritime
  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Role: Master / Chief Officer / Ship Safety Officer
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: ISM Code Section 7 Shipboard Operations PTW, OCIMF SIRE PTW System Requirements, STCW Safe Shipboard Operations Requirements, Company SMS Permit-to-Work Procedures, ILO MLC 2006 Occupational Safety Shipboard

PTW System Documentation

PTW system review.

  • PTW procedures documented in SMS and current version on board?
  • All required permit types available (hot work, confined space, LOTO, WAH)?
  • Issuing authority clearly defined (who can authorize each permit type)?
  • All officers trained in PTW system requirements?
  • PTW forms in language understood by all crew?

Recent Permit Audit

Sample review of recent permits.

  • Sample of recent permits reviewed - all sections properly completed?
  • No blank sections found in reviewed permits?
  • All reviewed permits signed by authorized officer only?
  • No conflicting/incompatible permits issued simultaneously?
  • All closed permits formally signed off with work completion noted?

Hot Work Permits

Hot work PTW compliance.

  • Gas test always required before hot work permit issued?
  • Fire watch always assigned for duration of hot work?
  • 30-minute post-work fire watch requirement in procedure?
  • Master or Chief Officer approval required for all hot work?
  • On tankers - terminal approval required before hot work at berth?

Confined Space Permits

CS entry PTW compliance.

  • Atmospheric testing always required before CS permit issued?
  • Dedicated attendant always required for CS entry permit?
  • Rescue equipment and rescue plan required before CS entry?
  • Continuous forced ventilation required during CS occupancy?
  • Re-test intervals for atmosphere defined in CS procedure?

Isolation and Working at Height

LOTO and WAH PTW.

  • Lockout/tagout isolation procedure required before electrical work?
  • All energy sources identified and isolated before work begins?
  • Working at height permit required for work above 2 metres?
  • Safety harness and fall arrest always required under WAH permit?
  • Simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) procedure in place when multiple hazardous jobs active?

PTW Audit Records

PTW system documentation.

  • PTW register/log maintained for all permits issued?
  • Completed permits retained for minimum 3 months?
  • Non-conformities raised for any PTW deficiencies found?
  • Any PTW incident lessons shared with crew?
  • PTW Audit Notes

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Why Use This General Permit-to-Work (PTW) System Audit Checklist?

This general permit-to-work (ptw) system audit checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for master / chief officer / ship safety officer professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.

Ensures compliance with ISM Code Section 7 Shipboard Operations PTW, OCIMF SIRE PTW System Requirements, STCW Safe Shipboard Operations Requirements, Company SMS Permit-to-Work Procedures, ILO MLC 2006 Occupational Safety Shipboard. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the General Permit-to-Work (PTW) System Audit Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: PTW System Documentation, Recent Permit Audit, Hot Work Permits, Confined Space Permits, Isolation and Working at Height, PTW Audit Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

Who should use this General Permit-to-Work (PTW) System Audit Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Master / Chief Officer / Ship Safety Officer professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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