Hot Works Permit Requirements

Hot works means any task that produces heat, sparks, or open flame — welding, grinding, cutting, and brazing.
Hot works are a leading cause of construction site fires, often resulting in total project losses.
A hot works permit must be issued before any hot work begins and displayed at the work location.
The permit is issued by a competent person who inspects the area and confirms fire precautions are in place.
Sparks from grinding can travel up to 10 metres and remain hot enough to ignite combustible materials.
All combustible materials within a minimum radius must be removed or protected with fire-resistant sheeting.
A fire watch must be maintained during hot works and for at least 60 minutes after completion.
A suitable fire extinguisher must be immediately available at the hot works location at all times.
Hot works in confined spaces, near gas cylinders, or near flammable stores require additional precautions.
The permit is valid for a single shift only — a new permit is required for each shift or location change.

Prevent site fires	Hot works are the single biggest cause of major fires on construction sites — permits ensure precautions are checked before work starts.
Insurance requirement	Most construction insurance policies require a formal hot works permit system; claims may be rejected without one.
Protect lives	Fires from hot works can spread rapidly through partially completed buildings, trapping workers with limited escape routes.

Do

Don't

Obtain a signed hot works permit before starting any welding, grinding, or cutting.
Clear all combustible materials from the work area before hot works begin.
Use fire-resistant sheeting to protect surfaces that cannot be moved or removed.
Have a suitable fire extinguisher within arm's reach of the hot works at all times.
Maintain a fire watch during the work and for at least 60 minutes afterwards.
Check above, below, and behind the work area for hidden combustible materials.
Display the permit at the work location so it is visible to all personnel.
Ensure fire detection systems are managed appropriately before starting hot works.
Return the permit to the issuer at the end of the shift or when work is complete.
Report any fire, scorch marks, or smouldering materials to your supervisor immediately.

DON'T start any hot works without a valid, signed permit for that specific location.
DON'T carry out hot works near unprotected combustible materials or flammable liquids.
DON'T assume sheeting alone is sufficient — remove combustibles wherever possible first.
DON'T work without a fire extinguisher present and checked at the hot works location.
DON'T leave the area unwatched during or after hot works — fires can start hours later.
DON'T forget voids, cavities, and ducting where sparks can travel and ignite unseen.
DON'T carry out hot works with an expired or unsigned permit document.
DON'T disable fire alarms or detectors without following the agreed management procedure.
DON'T continue hot works beyond the permitted time or shift without a new permit.
DON'T ignore small fires or smouldering — extinguish and report them immediately.

See also: Hot Works Fire Prevention | Welding Safety

Presenter		Project
Location		Date

Toolbox Talk Record