Permitrequired

Permitrequired is a term used in safety and regulatory contexts to indicate that a space, place, or task requires a formal permit before entry or performance. The permit serves as a documented authorization that specifies hazards, necessary controls, roles, and time limits to ensure that work proceeds safely. The concept is widely applied in industrial environments where hazards can be present or potential, and where entry or execution without prior systematic controls could pose risks to workers.

In the specific context of confined spaces, a permit-required confined space (PRCS) is a space that has or could have one or more serious hazards. Common criteria include the presence or potential for a hazardous atmosphere, the risk of engulfment, an internal configuration that could trap or asphyxiate, or other recognized safety hazards. Managing a PRCS typically requires an entry permit, continuous atmospheric monitoring or testing, isolation of the space from energy sources, installation of ventilation when needed, a trained attendant on site, and prepared rescue procedures.

The permit process generally involves hazard assessment, control measures, authorization by a competent person, issuance of an entry permit with defined conditions, ongoing verification during entry, and permit termination once the work is completed or conditions change. Compliance obligations vary by jurisdiction but commonly include training for workers, documented procedures, and access controls.

Related concepts include non-permit-required confined spaces (NPRCS), which lack the hazards that trigger a permit system, and broader permit systems for activities such as hot work, electrical work, or lockout/tagout. Regulations and terminology are defined by national and regional safety standards.