Menu

Health and Safety News

Occupational health and safety news and guidance

Award Winning Coffee Subscription

Safer, Smarter, Faster: The Top Three Benefits of Electronic Permit to Work Systems

Introduction
Effective work permit management is essential for maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Traditional paper-based Permit to Work (PTW) systems can be slow, inefficient, easily mislaid, and prone to error, contributing to serious safety risks.


A 2017 study published in the Chemical Engineering Transactions Journal found that permit system failures were a contributing factor in approximately 7% of over 600 process safety incidents recorded between 1990 and 2015. (Yan, C. K., Siong, P. H., Kidam, K., Ali, M. W., Hassim, M. H., Kamaruddin, M. J., & Kamarden, H. (2017). Contribution of Permit to Work to Process Safety Accident in the Chemical Process Industry. Chemical Engineering Transactions, 56, 883–888.)

To overcome these challenges, a growing number of organisations are turning to electronic Permit to Work (ePTW) systems to enhance visibility, streamline coordination, and strengthen safety practices. This article outlines three major benefits of adopting an ePTW system, with IAMTech’s iPermit serving as a case study.

1. Centralised Dashboards for Better Oversight


A core benefit of ePTW systems is centralised control. User Home Screens can provide a real-time overview of all active permits on-site through intuitive dashboards.

With iPermit, users benefit from an interactive ribbon tool that simplifies navigation. It allows them to organise and locate permits with ease, helping teams monitor progress from issue to completion without relying on outdated physical documents.

This centralisation enhances collaboration, reduces administrative effort, and speeds up response times, allowing personnel to focus on safety and execution.

2. Safer Management of Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS)


Overlapping permitted work in th…

Read more

Enhancing Workplace Safety: Applying the COM-B Model for Effective Behaviour Change

Creating a safe and healthy workplace goes beyond setting rules—it requires developing behaviours that prioritise health and safety. The COM-B model provides a framework for understanding and influencing behaviour change, making it an excellent tool for improving workplace safety.

Understanding the COM-B Model

Developed by Susan Michie and colleagues in 2011, the COM-B model identifies three essential components that drive behaviour:

  1. Capability (C): An individual's psychological and physical ability to engage in a behaviour. In workplace safety, this includes having the necessary knowledge, skills, and physical ability to follow safety procedures.

  2. Opportunity (O): External factors that enable or encourage behaviour, such as access to safety equipment or a workplace culture that prioritises safety.

  3. Motivation (M): Internal processes that influence decision-making, including habits, emotional responses, and conscious decision-making. Motivation determines whether someone will engage in a behaviour.

For a behaviour to occur, all three components must be present. Addressing each element helps create effective interventions to promote safer workplace practices.

Applying the COM-B Model to Health and Safety

To strengthen workplace health and safety, employers can implement strategies targeting each COM-B component:

1. Enhancing Capability

  • Training Programmes: Provide employees with thorough training on safety protocols, equipment use, and emergency procedures. Regular refresher courses help maintain competence.
  • Skill Assessments: Conduct regular evaluations to identify gaps in knowledge or ability, followed by targeted training.

2. Creating Opportunities

  • Accessible Safety Equipment: Ensure that employees…

Read more

Drive Smart: Your Essential Guide to Safer Driving

Welcome to the #DriveSmart campaign, your go-to resource for practical tips and expert advice on becoming a more confident and safer driver. Whether you’re a seasoned motorist or just starting out on the road, our series of videos and blog posts is here to help you navigate the many challenges of driving.

Every week, we’ll cover a specific driving topic designed to sharpen your skills, boost your awareness, and keep you and others safe on the road. From navigating roundabouts to driving on icy roads, we’ve planned a year-long series of content to ensure there’s something valuable for every driver.


Why “Drive Smart”?

Driving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing so safely and responsibly. Unfortunately, even the best drivers can face unexpected hazards, whether it’s severe weather, distracted road users, or vehicle issues. The #DriveSmart campaign is here to empower you with knowledge and strategies that make a real difference behind the wheel.

Our mission is simple:

  • Help you improve your driving habits
  • Raise awareness of common road hazards
  • Provide practical advice to handle challenging conditions
  • Encourage safer, more mindful behaviour on the road

What to Expect from the Series

Every video in this series is designed to be short, engaging, and packed with actionable advice. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the topics we’ll cover:

  • Winter Driving Tips: Learn how to handle icy roads, reduce stopping distances, and stay in control during bad weather.
  • Defensive Driving: Anticipate the unexpected and develop skills to avoid potential accidents.
  • Vehicle Maintenance: Keep your car in top condition with essential checks, like the POWDERS method, before setting off.
  • Sharing the Road:

Read more

POWDERS: Your Essential Pre-Drive Checklist

Before you start any journey, safety should be your top priority—not just for yourself but for everyone on the road. A quick vehicle check can make all the difference in preventing breakdowns, accidents, and other road hazards. That’s where the POWDERS acronym comes in.

What is POWDERS?
POWDERS is a simple, easy-to-remember checklist to ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy before driving. Each letter stands for a key area to check:

  • P: Petrol (or Fuel) – Ensure you have enough fuel (or charge for EVs) to complete your journey, including unexpected detours.
  • O: Oil – Check your oil levels using the dipstick. Low oil can lead to engine damage.
  • W: Water – Top up your coolant and windshield washer fluid for optimal performance and visibility.
  • D: Damage or Doors – Inspect for damage like cracked mirrors, broken lights, or tire issues, and ensure all doors are securely closed.
  • E: Electrics – Test your lights, horn, and dashboard indicators to ensure everything is working correctly.
  • R: Rubber (Tires) – Check your tire tread depth (minimum 1.6mm in the UK) and pressure for safe handling and braking.
  • S: Self (or Y for You) – Buckle up, adjust your seat and mirrors, and ensure you’re alert and ready to drive.

Why POWDERS Matters
Taking just a few minutes to complete these checks can save you from costly repairs, dangerous situations, and unnecessary stress on the road. It’s a habit that every driver—new or experienced—should adopt.

Want to Learn More?
For a detailed guide on how to carry out the POWDERS checklist, check out our video. We’ll walk you through each step and explain why it’s crucial for your safety.

🛠️ Watch it here: 

Read more

View older posts »