Hot work Toolbox Talk
Flame, sparks and heat can ignite material far from the immediate work. Hot work should be avoided where possible and otherwise controlled through a site-specific permit and fire watch.
Key points
- Use cold methods where reasonably practicable.
- Survey both sides of walls, floors and voids for combustibles.
- Remove or protect combustibles and seal vulnerable openings.
- Isolate alarms only where authorised and restore them promptly.
- Provide suitable extinguishers and a trained fire watch.
- Control gas cylinders, hoses, flashback arrestors and ignition sources.
- Inspect during the work and for the permit’s specified post-work period.
Do
- Obtain a valid permit.
- Stop if conditions change.
- Record the final fire check.
Don't
- Do not start on an expired permit.
- Do not leave hot material unattended.
- Do not assume sparks stay in the room.
Questions to ask the group
- Can a cold method be used?
- What is combustible nearby or behind the surface?
- Who performs the final check and when?
References: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005; Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002