Any industrial or construction operation that produces flames, intense heat, radiant energy, sparks, and heated metals is considered hot work. Equipment may also create hazardous gases or high voltages. Projects that involve welding, cutting, brazing, and soldering are common examples of hot work that requires fire safety equipment and strict adherence to safety protocols. Here’s all you need to know to protect your team and facility.

Potential Hazards for Employees Performing Hot Work

Extreme temperatures create hazards. The equipment and processes of hot work can produce flames and electrical arcs that reach 10,000 degrees or higher, creating risks of burns, ignition, and heatstroke. Arc welding in particular creates ultra-intense UV light, which could cause retinal damage without protective helmets.

Additionally, the smoke produced by hot work may contain toxic substances, including arsenic, nickel, fluorine, and cadmium. These materials can cause damage to organs upon inhalation. Long-term exposure may create or exacerbate existing respiratory problems, heart disease, and hearing loss.

Safety Protocols to Follow

Local fire codes and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements dictate that facility managers and building owners take all appropriate precautions to eliminate hazards during welding and cutting work. In general, this involves implementing procedures and controls before operations begin, such as restricting hot work to designated areas, ensuring employees use safety gear, and removing combustible materials from those spaces, including paint, dirt, and debris.

Managers must also have their fire safety equipment maintained according to OHSA schedules. Extinguishers must be of the proper size and rating for the specific type of work performed in the area. You may need to store fire retardant blankets in the area.

Upon project completion, the site should be thoroughly inspected for remaining ignition hazards, including combustible dust.

Proper fire safety precautions are critical before, during, and upon completion of hot work projects. To meet regulations and ensure employee safety, the experts at Taylor Fire Protection Services in Wasilla, AK, bring over 75 years of combined experience in designing, installing, and maintaining fire safety equipment and systems, including alarms, extinguishers, and sprinklers. Call (907) 373-1760 for a safety consultation or visit them online for more information about their services and products.