What is a permit-to-work (PTW) and who approves it?

• A. Formal authorization to perform hazardous work; approvals typically involve a supervisor, safety officer, and authorized issuer
• B. A log of hours worked by staff
• C. A document granting overtime
• D. A permit to access restricted areas

Answer: (A)

A permit-to-work is a formal safety process that authorizes someone to carry out a specific hazardous task only after confirming that all necessary precautions are in place. It ensures risks are identified and controlled before work begins, and that everyone knows who can stop the work if conditions change. Approvals typically involve people with authority in the work area—often a supervisor who understands the job, a safety officer or safety representative who enforces the rules, and an authorized permit issuer who reviews the task and confirms the required controls are in place. The permit documents the exact task, location, timeframe, required safety measures, energy isolation (lockout/tagout), gas or atmospheric checks, fire precautions, and rescue or emergency arrangements. It is time-bound and task-specific, so work cannot proceed outside the permit and can be paused or canceled if conditions change. It’s not simply a log of hours, an overtime document, or an access permit for restricted areas.