Hot work is a process that can be a source of ignition when flammable material is present or can be a fire hazard regardless of the presence of flammable material in the workplace. Common hot work processes involve welding, soldering, cutting, brazing burning and the use of powder-actuated tools or similar fire producing operations outside of designated hot work areas. When flammable materials are not present, industrial processes such as grinding and drilling become cold work processes.[1]
In some countries, such as the UK and Canada,[2] a hot work permit is required for hot work.[1] The purpose of a hot work permit is to effect "the employer's written authorization to perform hot working operations".[3] The UK's Health and Safety Executive suggests that a hot work permit should specify:
When performing hot work, welders must assess the risk of fire in the work area and implement certain safety precautions if a threat is detected. The establishment of a fire watch is the most important precaution a welder can take against an accidental fire on a job site. Either the welder himself or an appointed laborer must become designated for a fire watch and stay in the area of the hot work for no less than 2 hours after the last of the hot work has been completed. This designated fire watch person must have a fire extinguisher and access to phone in case of a fire.[5]
In the United States, OSHA maintains regulations for hot work in the marine industrial setting. The following regulations apply:
Other relevant literature is: