Permit-to-Work: Step-by-Step Process Flow

A clear Permit-to-Work (PTW) process is the backbone of safe, controlled high-risk work. Follow this step-by-step flow to reduce accidents and ensure accountability.

Work Request — The job owner (requester) submits a detailed request describing scope, location, timing, personnel, and tools. Include specific hazards (electrical, hot work, confined space).

Preliminary Risk Assessment — Supervisor or safety officer reviews the request, identifies hazards, and proposes controls (isolation, PPE, hot-work monitors).

Select Permit Type & Fill Form — Choose the correct permit (hot work, electrical, confined space, work at height) and complete the PTW form with controls, equipment, and emergency procedures.

Authorization — Competent authoriser (shift supervisor or safety manager) checks the assessment, confirms controls, and signs the permit. Only authorised people can approve.

Isolation & Preparation — Implement isolation (lockout/tagout, barriers), place signage, and verify atmospheric testing or fall-protection setup as required.

Pre-Start Briefing — Conduct a toolbox talk with all workers to confirm roles, hazards, controls, and communication methods.

Work Execution & Monitoring — Perform the job under continuous monitoring. Permit holder ensures controls remain effective; safety officer inspects at intervals.

Stop Work Authority — Any team member can stop work if hazards change or controls fail.

Completion & Handover — On finishing, restore isolations, remove tools, and clean the area. Authoriser inspects and signs closure.

Recordkeeping & Review — File the permit, record near-misses or incidents, and review for lessons learned to improve future permits.

A disciplined PTW process saves lives and keeps operations running — treat it as both a legal document and a live safety tool.