What must be confirmed before work begins after a briefing?

• A. The briefing is complete once the supervisor approves.
• B. All participants must acknowledge that they fully understand the scope of work and associated hazards.
• C. Before starting, a designated safety person must sign off on the job.
• D. PPE has been inspected.

Answer: (C)

Before work starts after a briefing, a designated safety person must sign off on the job. This formal sign-off acts as authorization that the safety plan has been reviewed and approved, hazards have been identified and controls are in place, and the work is permitted to proceed under established procedures. It creates accountability and provides independent verification that all safety requirements—such as energy isolation, lockout/tagout, proper PPE readiness, tool inspection, and clear communication—are in order. Relying only on a supervisor’s approval doesn’t guarantee that an independent safety review has occurred, and simply acknowledging understanding of the scope doesn’t authorize the job. PPE inspection is important but by itself doesn’t confirm that the overall job plan is safe and authorized.