A permit to work (PTW) is a document that authorises hazardous work to be performed. It is a critical tool for ensuring the safety of workers and the public. A PTW should include the following information:
- The name and contact information of the person authorizing the work.
- The date and time the work is to be performed.
- The location of the work.
- A description of the work to be performed.
- The hazards associated with the work.
- The precautions that must be taken to mitigate the hazards.
- The names of the workers who will be performing the work.
- The names of the supervisors who will be overseeing the work.
- The signature of the person authorizing the work.
PTWs can be delivered to workers in a variety of ways, including:
- Hard copy: PTWs can be printed out and given to workers in hard copy form.
- Electronic copy: PTWs can be sent to workers electronically, either a link to an online form or by scanning a QR code onsite
- Mobile app: PTWs can be stored on a mobile app that workers can access on their phones or tablets.
The best way to deliver PTWs to workers will depend on the specific needs of the organisation. If workers are not always in a location where they can access a computer or printer, then an a digital option such as a link sent out to the contractor prior to coming onsite or a QR Code that is available onsite which the contractor can scan may be the best option. The digital PTW copy can then be sent onto other larger system databases such as Contractor Management Software.
Using digital PTW allows you to have access to live reports and data based on all PTW completed and collected and dashboards can show you the workflow of the PTW and where it is up to in the approval process.
It is important to note that PTWs are not a substitute for safe work practices. Workers should always follow all applicable safety procedures, even when they have a PTW.
Here are some additional tips for creating and using PTWs:
- Make sure the PTW is clear and concise. Workers should be able to understand the information on the PTW without having to read it multiple times.
- Use plain language and avoid jargon. Workers should not have to have a specialized understanding of the work to be performed in order to understand the PTW.
- Be specific about the hazards and precautions. Workers need to know exactly what hazards they are facing and what precautions they need to take.
- Get workers’ signatures on the PTW. This will help to ensure that they understand the risks and precautions associated with the work.
- Review the PTW regularly and update it as needed. The hazards and precautions associated with the work may change over time, so it is important to keep the PTW up-to-date.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your PTWs are effective in protecting workers.
Ask Time & People how they can help your organisation better manage and deliver Permits to Work.
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