To ensure the safety of those working on or near the tramway, we’re reminding contractors of the Authority to Work permit requirements, which must be agreed before any works can commence.
Permit+ - the online Authority to Work management system - was developed to provide an efficient and secure way for our team to oversee requests for permits, which are required for contractors who are looking to work on or near the trams.
Since its 2023 launch, it has processed more than 3000 permits, ensuring that our Engineering team can ensure that safety standards are met, and that our Operational Control Centre is aware of all works taking place nearby.
The Overhead Line Equipment is always powered, unless de-energisation is agreed, and has the potential to be extremely dangerous to people working at height nearby. Similarly, it’s useful for our team to know about works taking place at ground level when trams are passing by, so that drivers can be warned of potential obstructions during the day.
Permit+ has made the process of applying for permits entirely digital, enabling applicants and our team to process and review applications faster. The website also offers transparent information about the fees attached for different kinds of permits.
Edinburgh Trams’ Authority to Work Manager, Iain MacLeod, said,
“We’d encourage anyone looking to work on or near the tramway in 2026 to look at the permit requirements, so that we can continue to ensure the safety of contractors before works commence.”
Requests for an Authority to Work permit should be made at least 21 calendar days before works are planned to allow sufficient time to coordinate the necessary third-party permissions.
If you’re unsure if you require a permit to work, please contact the team at [email protected].
More details about applying for an Authority to Work permit can be found here.
