Hot work is defined as cutting and welding operations for construction or demolition activities that involve the use of portable gas or arc welding equipment, or involve soldering, grinding, brazing, drilling or any other similar activities producing a spark, flame, or heat.
Hot work introduces significant fire hazards into any industry with the potential of combustible dust, including grain dust, and flammable products. A Hot Work Permitallows employers to maintain safety and control over potentially hazardous hot work operations. The hot work permit system reinforces to workers the safety requirements of their work situation.
Under the hot work
permit system, a firewatcher is required to oversee a hot work site for at least 60 minutes after the completion of the job.
Most fires associated with hot work start after the job has been completed as a result of smoldering sparks.
Hot work permits are needed for each and every employee, contractor or sub-contractor/trade performing hot work for a project.
Person Performing Hot Work
Use equipment safely – use curtains or shields.
Alert affected employees of hot work activities being conducted.
Clean the area, sweep debris, remove any flammable materials.
Use fire retardant tarps to cover area where hot work is to be performed.
Wet the area with water, if appropriate, and maintain dampness during the project.
Complete a Hot Work Permit, Supervisor of area must sign off before starting work, keep the permit on site with the fire watch.
Have a fire extinguisher readily available.
Have the required training to perform hot work.
Wear all required PPE.
Cease operations if unsafe conditions
arise
Fire Watch
Alert affected employees of hot work activities.
Stop work if the operation becomes unsafe.
Have a fire extinguisher readily available.
Have a means of communication to alert facility of fire or any other emergency.
Extinguish small fires if it is safe to do so.
Remain at the hot work location for at least 60 minutes after the hot work has ended to ensure no lingering sparks or smoldering embers are present that could spark fire (“fire watch”).
