In the world of workplace safety, "risk assessment" is a term everyone knows. But for more hazardous activities, a standard risk assessment is only the beginning. To truly control the danger, you need a formal Permit to Work (PTW) system. But when do you need to move beyond a risk assessment and implement a full permit?
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Understanding the Difference between a Risk Assessment and a Permit to Work
A Risk Assessment identifies potential hazards and evaluates the risks involved in a task. It's a foundational step for almost any work activity.
A Permit to Work System, however, is a formal, documented control process. It doesn't just identify the risk; it confirms that all safety precautions have been completed, authorises a specific person to do a specific job at a specific time, and ensures a safe handover once the work is complete. It is, as the HSE describes it, a core part of a 'safe system of work'.
When is a Permit to Work Essential?
You should always use a PTW system for non-routine, high-risk work. While every site is different, this typically includes:
○ Hot Work: Any task involving open flames, welding, or creating sources of ignition in areas where flammable materials could be present. A PTW ensures fire watches are in place and combustible materials are cleared.
○ Confined Space Entry: Working in enclosed areas like tanks, pits, or sewers poses risks from dangerous fumes and lack of oxygen. A PTW is vital for confirming atmospheric testing, isolation, and rescue plans are in place.
○ Working at Height: This includes work on scaffolding, fragile roofs, or near openings where a fall could cause serious injury. A PTW ensures anchor points are checked, equipment is inspected, and fall arrest systems are used correctly.
○ Electrical Work: For tasks involving isolation of high-voltage equipment, a PTW provides a formal record that circuits have been de-energised, locked-off, and proven dead before work commences.
A risk assessment tells you something is dangerous. A Permit to Work system is the tool you use to control that danger from start to finish.
If your teams perform any of these high-risk tasks, a formal, auditable PTW system isn't just best practice—it's an essential part of your legal duty of care.
Explore SG World's range of duplicate-copy Permit to Work systems to ensure you have a clear, reliable process for every high-risk job.