Introduction to Control of Work (COW)

Overview

This course introduces the Control of Work system and its role in preventing incidents during work activities. Using practical examples, learners explore the purpose, elements, and key steps of Control of Work and how effective planning, communication, and authorisation support safe operations.

This course is delivered as RelyOn eLearning and has an approximate duration of 20 minutes.

Who is it For

This course is suitable for all members of the work party, including employees, contractors, supervisors, permit users, and personnel involved in planning or executing work activities.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the course, learners will be able to:

• Describe the Control of Work system
• State the purpose of the Control of Work system
• Identify the elements within the Control of Work system
• List the five steps within the Control of Work system
• Explain how to plan within the Control of Work system
• Explain the Risk Assessment process within the Control of Work system
• Explain how work is controlled under a Permit to Work
• Explain the life cycle of the Permit to Work
• Describe the communication processes within the Control of Work system
• Summarise Lock Out Tag Out
• Describe sub-systems within the Control of Work system

Course Content

The course includes topics such as:

• Purpose of Control of Work
• Core elements of a Control of Work system
• Work planning and authorisation
• Roles and responsibilities
• Risk assessment and control measures
• Permit-to-work interfaces
• Communication and handover
• Lessons from Control of Work failures

Assessment

Learners are assessed through knowledge checks and assessment questions throughout the course. This course includes 20 questions.

Certificate

Successful completion of the course will result in a certificate of completion issued by RelyOn.