IOGP - Life-Saving Rules

The International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP) has established a set of nine Life-Saving Rules designed to highlight a key action to prevent fatal injuries for activities that research has shown to be high-risk.

Aimed at individual workers, every rule is geared to a specific task. IMCA recommends that, as far as possible, Members adopt the IOGP Life-Saving Rules These rules are based on data analysis, industry best practices, and user feedback. Here are the rules:

1. Bypassing Safety Controls - Obtain authorisation before overriding or disabling safety controls

2. Confined Spaces - Obtain authorisation before entering a confined space

3. Driving - Follow safe driving rules

4. Energy Isolation - Verify isolation and zero energy before work begins

5. Hot Work - Control flammables and ignition sources

6. Line of Fire - Keep yourself and others out of the line of fire

7. Safe Mechanical Lifting - Plan lifting operations and control the area

8. Work Authorisation - Work with a valid permit when required

9. Working at Height - Protect yourself against a fall when working at height

The IOGP Life-Saving Rules are not intended to address all risks and hazards; they are meant to draw attention to the activities most likely to lead to a fatality, and the life-saving actions over which an individual has control. The Rules are intended to support existing company management systems.

They are not intended to replace company management systems, policies, safety training programmes, operating procedures, or work instructions, and in fact rely on this framework being in place.

Standardisation of Life-Saving Rules:

• Enables better transfer of knowledge, experience and lessons learned;

• Increases individual awareness ownership of critical safeguards that prevent fatalities;

• Is a step towards an industry-wide common safety language;

• Improves clarity and allows consistent use.

The IOGP Life-Saving Rules can significantly enhance safety in the marine contracting industry by providing clear, actionable guidelines to prevent accidents and fatalities.

By integrating these rules into daily operations, the marine contracting industry can create a safer working environment, reduce the likelihood of accidents, and protect the well-being of its workforce.

Supporting materials

All supporting materials for the implementation of the IOGP Lif-Saving Rules can be found on the IOGP web site including currently available translations. Life-Saving Rules | IOGP