How to Navigate IGEM GL/6: A Practical Guide for SCO Roles
Turning a Complex SCO Guidance Document into a Practical Tool
For anyone involved in Safe Control of Operations (SCO), IGEM GL/6 is one of the most important guidance documents in the UK gas industry.
It provides the framework for the safe control of work on gas networks and forms the foundation of SCO roles, competence requirements and operational procedures across the sector.
However, for those opening the document for the first time, IGEM GL/6 can appear complex and difficult to navigate.
The good news is that you do not need to memorise every page. Understanding how the document is structured and knowing where to find relevant information is often far more valuable than trying to learn it word for word.
Understanding the Purpose of IGEM GL/6
Before diving into the detail, it is important to understand what GL/6 is designed to achieve.
The document provides a structured framework for controlling work on gas networks by defining:
- Roles and responsibilities
- Competency requirements
- Control documents
- Communication requirements
- Monitoring and assurance activities
Its purpose is not to replace engineering judgement or risk assessment. Instead, it provides a consistent structure for managing operational risk across SCO-controlled activities.
Understanding SCO Roles Within IGEM GL/6
One of the best places to start is by understanding the SCO roles and how they interact.
Key roles include:
- Competent Person (CP)
- Authorising Engineer (AE)
- Responsible Engineer (RE)
- Network Controller (NC)
- Reviewing Manager (RM)
- Originator
Understanding the responsibilities and interfaces between these roles provides a strong foundation for using IGEM GL/6 in practice.
Focus on the IGEM GL/6 Sections Relevant to Your Role
A common mistake is trying to read GL/6 from cover to cover.
A more practical approach is to focus on the sections most relevant to your role.
Competent Persons (CPs)
Should focus on:
- Roles and responsibilities
- Permit requirements
- Communication and handover requirements
- Site control and monitoring
Authorising Engineers (AEs)
Should focus on:
- Authorisation requirements
- Risk assessment
- Control document preparation
- Competency management
- Deviations and approvals
Responsible Engineers (REs)
Should focus on:
- Competency frameworks
- Monitoring and assurance
- Performance review
- Overall SCO implementation
Pay Particular Attention to Competency Requirements
One section that is frequently overlooked is the competency requirements section.
Competence is not achieved through training alone.
It is based upon a combination of:
- Training
- Knowledge
- Experience
- Authorisation
- Ongoing monitoring and review
Understanding this principle is essential for anyone working within Safe Control of Operations (SCO).
Make Use of the Appendices
Many of the most practical tools are found in the appendices.
These include examples of key SCO control documents such as:
- Permit to Work (PtW)
- Routine Operation (RO)
- Non-Routine Operation (NRO)
- Form of Authority (FoA)
- Record of Atmosphere Test (RAT)
The appendices are particularly useful because they show how the principles described in the main document are applied in real operational situations.
How SCO Training Supports IGEM GL/6
While IGEM GL/6 provides the framework, SCO training helps bring it to life in practice.
Training provides the opportunity to:
- Apply IGEM GL/6 principles to real scenarios
- Understand how SCO roles interact in operations
- Explore common challenges in gas network work
- Build confidence in using control documents correctly
For many individuals, this is where the document moves from being a guidance document to a practical operational tool.
Final Thoughts on IGEM GL/6
IGEM GL/6 is a comprehensive document, but it does not need to be intimidating.
Understanding its structure, SCO roles and competency requirements provides a strong foundation for anyone working within Safe Control of Operations.
Rather than trying to memorise every section, focus on understanding:
- where to find information
- how it applies to your role
- how control documents are used in practice
A practical understanding of IGEM GL/6 helps support safe, compliant and efficient gas network operations.
Need Help Understanding SCO and IGEM GL/6?
Pragmatic Consulting delivers SCO training covering:
- SCO Core
- Permit to Work (PtW)
- Routine Operations (RO)
- Non-Routine Operations (NRO)
- Form of Authority (FoA)
- We provide both full courses and renewal courses for those needing to refresh their knowledge
Helping individuals and organisations develop the knowledge, understanding and competence required to apply IGEM GL/6 effectively in real operational environments.
Further reading
You might also be interested in our related articles:
RO vs NRO: Difference Between Routine and Non-Routine Operations in SCO
Five Key Five Key Principles of SCO (Safe Control of Operations)
