Can We Legally Authorize PMC Supervisors for Permit Issuance in Critical Height Work?

Authorization of PMC Supervisors for Permit Issuance

My factory is registered under the Factory Act. Presently, we are executing a number of engineering projects and hiring a Project Management Consultant (PMC) for these projects. Can we authorize one of the PMC supervisors to issue permits from our site? The PMC is hired for supervision purposes to ensure timely completion of work with quality.

Legal Implications of Critical Height Work

Please note that this involves critical work of changing roof sheets, specifically height work. What are the legal implications as this is considered critical height work? Can we authorize the project consultant to issue permits? Any accidents on our premises are our responsibility.

Thank you.

Accountability in Case of Accidents

In case of any accident on your premises, you are solely accountable. You cannot transfer accountability. You can authorize anyone to issue a permit to work at height or for any other purpose, provided they are competent enough.

Issuing Permits for Work at Height

To issue a permit to work at height—whether for roof work or any other task—the issuer must have thorough knowledge, skill, and authority. We refer to this person not as an "expert" but as a "competent person" because they should specify all the protective measures to adopt and carry out the work safely. Their responsibility is not limited to just issuing the permit but also ensuring that the work is carried out strictly according to the permit conditions. The issuer cannot just issue a permit and relax. Remember, in spirit, a permit is a 'sword of Damocles' for the issuer.

Regards,
Kesava Pillai