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The Permit to Work: What It Guarantees
A permit is not just a paper: it is a promise that the area is safe for your specific task today.
Why this matters
- A permit is a contract between the supervisor and the worker. It proves that a competent person has looked at the hazards and put controls in place to keep you alive.
- If you work without a permit, or outside of what is written on the permit, you are walking into unknown hazards. The permit is the only way to be sure that power is cut, pipes are empty, or the air is safe to breathe.
Talking points
- Check the scope: The permit only covers the specific work written on the paper. Do not start extra tasks.
- Verify the controls: If the permit says a valve is locked or a guard is in place, look for it yourself.
- Keep it visible: The permit must stay at the work site so every worker and inspector knows the safety rules.
- Stick to the time: Permits have a start and end time. Never work past the expiry time.
- Stop if things change: If the job changes or a new hazard appears, stop work and ask for a new permit assessment.
- The signature matters: When you sign a permit, you are saying you understand the risks and will follow the rules.
- Close it correctly: Tell the supervisor when you finish. This ensures the area is returned to service safely.
Ask the crew
- What should you do if the job changes from what is written on your permit?
- Where must the permit be kept while your team is working?
- Why is it dangerous to work on a permit that has expired?
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
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