What to Include in a Take 5 Form
A Take 5 Form is a quick, pre-task risk assessment tool used widely across construction, mining, and industrial sectors to help workers identify and control hazards before starting work. The goal is simple: take five minutes to stop, think, and assess the risks, so you can proceed safely.
Take 5 forms are designed to be fast, practical, and effective. They promote situational awareness and empower individuals to take ownership of safety in real time.
Key Sections of a Take 5 Form
Based on industry best practices and templates used across major infrastructure projects, a standard Take 5 Form includes the following sections:
1. Stop and Think
This section prompts the worker to pause and consider the task ahead. Typical questions include:
- Do I understand the scope of the task?
- Is there a procedure or method statement for this job?
- Do I understand the job steps?
- Do I have the correct tools and equipment?
- Is my PPE appropriate and in good condition?
- Are the necessary permits in place?
- Is the work area clear and accessible?
If any answer is “No,” the form should prompt the worker to record corrective actions before proceeding.
2. Spot the Hazards
This section helps identify potential risks associated with the task or environment. Common hazard prompts include:
- Working at height
- Working near live equipment or moving plant
- Exposure to hazardous materials
- Confined spaces
- Lifting operations
- Working near water
- Impact on others nearby
If any hazard is present, the form should ask whether additional controls are required and what those controls are.
3. Plan and Control
This section ensures that all identified hazards are addressed. It asks:
- Are any hazards left uncontrolled?
- Have control measures been implemented?
- Is the task safe to proceed?
If hazards remain, the form may direct the worker to review the Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) or consult a supervisor.
4. Complete the Task Safely
Once all checks are complete, the worker signs off and proceeds with the task. This section typically includes:
- Date and time
- Name of the person completing the form
- Task description
- Location
- Summary of hazards and actions taken
Digital versions may include photo attachments, dropdown fields, and automated alerts for unresolved risks.
Real-World Example
On a rail infrastructure site, a worker preparing to install fencing might complete a Take 5 Form that identifies:
- Risk of working near moving vehicles
- Uneven terrain causing trip hazards
- Need for high-visibility PPE and traffic control
The worker notes these risks, confirms control measures (e.g. spotter, signage), and proceeds only after confirming the area is safe. This simple process helps prevent incidents and ensures compliance with site safety protocols.
Why Take 5 Forms Matter
Take 5 Forms are essential for:
- Proactive hazard identification
- Improved safety culture
- Reduced incidents and near misses
- Compliance with safety regulations
- Empowering frontline workers to take ownership of safety
They’re especially valuable in dynamic environments where conditions can change rapidly and formal risk assessments may not be practical for every task.
How Glaass Supports Take 5 Forms
At Glaass, Take 5 Forms are digitised to streamline safety workflows. Our platform allows teams to:
- Complete Take 5s on mobile devices in real time
- Attach photos and notes to each entry
- Trigger alerts for unresolved hazards
- Integrate Take 5 data into safety dashboards and reports
- Customise templates to suit project-specific needs
Whether you’re working on a tunnel, rail corridor, or high-rise, Glaass helps ensure that every task starts with a moment of safety reflection and ends with confidence.
