We’ve compiled a list of the top hot work hazards so you are aware of some areas where your employees might need extra protection.

• Confined Spaces. Small spaces are more than just a problem for the claustrophobic.
• Electrical Shocks.
• Non-Ionizing Radiation.
• Fumes.
• Sparks.
• Gas Cylinders.
• Insufficient Apparel.

Common Hazards of Hot Work

• Flying sparks. This is the main risk posed by hot work.
• Flammable swarf, molten metals, slag, cinder, and filings. The debris and residue that hot work creates are often highly combustible and/or hot.
• Heat conduction when working on pipes.
• Hot surfaces.
• Explosive atmospheres.

Hot Work Control Measures to Keep Workers Safe

• Avoid Hot Work Where Possible.
• Prepare a Permit to Work.
• Clear the Area Where Hot Work Will Be Carried Out.
• Carry Out Hot Work in a Designated or Prepared Area.
• Ensure Those Carrying Out Hot Work Are Trained to Do So.
• Monitor Gas or Vapour in the Area Being Used for Hot Work.

‘Hot work’ includes any process that generates a source of ignition, such as naked flames, heat or sparks arising from working methods, such as welding. The process can generate such extreme temperatures that even containers that might not be classified as flammable under normal conditions can ignite.

Fire/ explosion hazard.

Hot work is defined as cutting and welding operations for construction/demolition activities that involve the use of portable gas or arc welding equipment, or involve soldering, grinding, or any other similar activities producing a spark, flame, or heat.

Hot work activity is most commonly defined as work involving electric or gas welding, cutting, grinding, brazing, or similar flame or spark-producing operations. These activities can inadvertently place an ignition source into an area with combustible or flammable material.

Hot work equipment to be used shall be in satisfactory operating condition and in good repair. Hot work site is clear of combustibles or combustibles are protected. Exposed construction is of noncombustible materials or, if combustible, then protected. Openings are protected.

Hot work is defined as any activity that involves open flames or produces heat and/or sparks capable of initiating fires or explosions. Examples of hot work include: welding, cutting, grinding, drilling, soldering, brazing, torch-applied roofing, etc.

Hot work is a process that involves welding, soldering, brazing, cutting, grinding, drilling and burning or melting metals or other substances such as glass. Use of open flame in the furnace or sparks or such ignition tools are considered hot work procedures.

The Standard includes a sample Hot Work Permit that includes “requirements within 35 ft (11m) of hot work.” One of the requirements is: Other combustible storage material removed or covered with listed or approved materials (welding pads, blankets,…

Hot work is a process that involves welding, soldering, brazing, cutting, grinding, drilling and burning or melting metals or other substances such as glass. Use of open flame in the furnace or sparks or such ignition tools are considered hot work procedures.

Hot Work Workplace Safety Program. Purpose. Welding and Hot Work, such as brazing or grinding present a significant opportunity for fire and injury. All precautions of this program must be applied prior to commencing any welding or hot work by company employees or contractors.

Any person doing hot work is required to have an OSHA hot work permit which can be obtained by completing a hot work training course. All workers must be trained in proper use of equipment as well as first aid.