Permit to Work

Term from Facilities Management industry explained for recruiters

A Permit to Work is a formal safety system used in facilities and buildings to control dangerous or high-risk activities. It's like a special permission slip that ensures work is planned, reviewed, and carried out safely. This system is particularly important for tasks like working with electricity, at heights, in confined spaces, or with hazardous materials. The person managing the permit checks that workers have the right skills and safety measures are in place before work begins. It's similar to having a detailed checklist and authorization process that helps prevent accidents and ensures everyone follows safety rules.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Permit to Work system for a 50-story commercial building, processing over 200 permits monthly

Implemented electronic PTW system to streamline maintenance operations

Trained staff on Permit-to-Work procedures and safety compliance

Supervised high-risk maintenance activities through Work Permit system

Typical job title: "Permit to Work Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Facilities Manager Safety Coordinator Maintenance Supervisor HSE Manager Building Operations Manager Permit Controller Safety Officer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a Permit to Work system in a large facility?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of creating a comprehensive system including risk assessment, permit types, approval chains, and training requirements. Should mention experience with both paper-based and electronic systems.

Q: How do you handle emergency situations within a Permit to Work system?

Expected Answer: Should discuss emergency procedures, permit suspension protocols, communication channels, and how to balance urgent work needs with safety requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements of a Permit to Work form?

Expected Answer: Should mention work description, hazards, safety measures, time validity, authorized persons, emergency procedures, and sign-off requirements.

Q: How do you ensure contractors comply with the Permit to Work system?

Expected Answer: Should discuss contractor briefings, verification of qualifications, supervision requirements, and consequences of non-compliance.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of a Permit to Work system?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a safety system to control hazardous work, ensure proper authorization, and maintain safe working conditions.

Q: What types of work typically require a permit?

Expected Answer: Should list common examples like hot work, working at heights, confined space entry, and electrical work.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of permit types
  • Form processing and documentation
  • Safety regulation awareness
  • Basic risk assessment

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Permit system management
  • Contractor supervision
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Safety audit participation

Senior (5+ years)

  • System implementation and improvement
  • Staff training and development
  • Policy creation and updates
  • Multi-site permit coordination

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety regulations
  • Inability to explain risk assessment process
  • Lack of experience with emergency procedures
  • Poor understanding of different permit types and their requirements

Related Terms