3381 Guidance on management of third party changes to plant control systems

The Energy Institute's Power Systems Committee has identified a need for guidance to support operator assurance in the management of change (MoC) for third‑party‑implemented changes to plant control systems. Recognising the frequent use of third‑party support, the committee considers that guidance on assurance against unauthorised or uncontrolled changes would be beneficial to equipment and plant operators. This need arises in the context of the legal responsibilities owners and operators have for the safe operation of their assets. While it is likely that owners or operators already have robust MoC processes in place for changes they initiate, this guidance focuses on how those processes may be adapted to address changes initiated and implemented by third parties. This guidance represents a second edition, with the original published in 2018.