Permit Types and When Required

A permit to work (PTW) is a formal document that authorises specific high-risk work under controlled conditions.
Permits ensure that hazards are identified, controls are in place, and all parties understand the safe system.
Common permit types include: hot works, confined space, excavation, electrical, LOTO, working at height, and lifting.
The specific permits required on any site are determined by the construction phase plan and risk assessment.
Permits must be issued by an authorised and competent person before any controlled work begins.
Each permit has a defined duration, location, and scope — work outside these limits is not authorised.
Permits must be displayed at the point of work so all personnel can confirm the authorisation.
Cross-referencing permits is essential when multiple high-risk activities overlap in the same area.
Permits must be formally handed back, closed, and cancelled when the work is complete or the shift ends.
Failure to use permits for high-risk work is a serious breach of CDM 2015 and site safety rules.

Prevent incidents	Permits ensure critical safety controls are in place before high-risk work begins on site.
Legal compliance	CDM 2015 and specific regulations such as Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 require formal permits for controlled work.
Clear communication	Permits record the agreed safe system and ensure all workers and supervisors understand the controls.

Do

Don't

Check which permit types are required on your site before starting high-risk work
Ensure permits are issued by an authorised, competent person before work begins
Read the permit conditions carefully and confirm you understand all the controls
Display the permit at the point of work where all workers can see it
Cross-reference permits when multiple high-risk activities are happening nearby
Stop work and report to the permit issuer if conditions change during the task
Hand back and close the permit formally when the work is complete or the shift ends
Record permit details in the site register for audit and compliance purposes
Renew or reissue the permit if work extends beyond the authorised time or scope
Participate in permit training to understand your responsibilities as a permit user

DON'T start high-risk work without obtaining the correct permit to work first
DON'T assume a permit from a previous shift covers today's work automatically
DON'T work outside the scope, location, or time limits stated on the permit
DON'T hide the permit in a site cabin — it must be displayed at the work location
DON'T ignore the requirement to cross-reference overlapping permits for the same area
DON'T continue working if the conditions specified on the permit have changed
DON'T sign a permit you have not read and understood in full before starting work
DON'T leave permits open after work is complete — formally hand back and close them
DON'T treat the permit as just paperwork — it is your authorisation to work safely
DON'T allow others to work under your permit unless they are named and briefed

See also: Permit to Work Awareness | Permit Audit and Compliance

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