4.5 Contractor Management & Permits to Work

External contractors represent the single largest unmitigated risk to facility integrity. They possess the tools to destroy infrastructure but lack the institutional knowledge of your specific hazards (e.g., hidden chemical lines, ESD zones). Therefore, you do not "trust" contractors; you engineer a containment system for their activities using the Permit to Work (PTW) framework.

Access & Induction Protocols

An uncontrolled contractor is a breach of security and safety simultaneously.

• If Contractor is New (No History) -> Then Mandatory EHS Induction is required before site entry.
  • Content: Must cover Emergency Evacuation, Chemical Alarms, and ESD protocols.
  • Validity: Induction badge expires after 12 months.
• If Work is in EPA (ESD Protected Area) -> Then Contractor must wear full ESD footwear/smock or be escorted by qualified personnel.
  • Risk: A contractor with a standard vacuum cleaner can generate 20,000V and destroy an entire production run.

Permit to Work (PTW) Logic

The PTW is not a permission slip; it is a shared risk agreement. It forces the contractor to pause and validate that safety controls are active before energy is applied.

• If Work involves Ignition Sources (Welding, Grinding) -> Then issue Hot Work Permit.
  • Constraint: A dedicated Fire Watch with a CO2 extinguisher must remain on station for 60 minutes after work completes.
• If Work involves Grid Infrastructure (Piping, Electrical > 50V) -> Then issue Isolation Permit.
  • Rule: Dual Lockout. The Facility Manager applies the first lock; the Contractor applies the second. Energy is restored only when both agree.
• If Work involves Height > 2m -> Then issue Work at Height Permit.
  • Requirement: Harness anchored to certified structural points, not conduit or sprinkler pipes.

Pro-Tip: Audit the contractor's "Toolbox Talk." Do not just check the box; walk up to the crew at 09:00 and ask, "What is the primary kill-risk on this job today?" If they cannot answer, revoke the permit immediately.

Supervision & Liability

You cannot outsource liability. If a contractor triggers a chemical spill, the regulatory agency fines you.

• High Risk Zones (Chemical Storage, Server Room): 100% Escort required.
• General Zones (Loading Dock, Office): Spot checks every 4 hours.
• Stop Work Authority: Any facility employee (Operator to Manager) has the absolute authority to halt contractor work if unsafe behavior is observed.

Final Checklist