• Obtain a hot works permit before using any thermal cutting method on site.
• Clear combustible materials within 10 metres of the cutting location.
• Wear hearing protection, eye protection, and RPE during all steel cutting.
• Use fume extraction when cutting galvanised, painted, or coated steel.
• Maintain an exclusion zone below and around the cutting area for falling off-cuts.
• Deburr or mark cut edges immediately to prevent laceration injuries.
• Inspect disc cutters and abrasive wheels before every use.
• Maintain a fire watch for 60 minutes after completing any hot cutting.
• Secure the steel member to prevent movement during the cutting operation.
• Have a fire extinguisher immediately available at the cutting location.

• DON'T cut steel using thermal methods without a hot works permit in place.
• DON'T cut galvanised or painted steel without fume extraction or RPE.
• DON'T allow sparks to reach combustible materials — clear or protect them first.
• DON'T leave cut steel edges unprotected — they cause deep lacerations.
• DON'T use a disc cutter without hearing and eye protection.
• DON'T cut steel with anyone standing below where off-cuts may fall.
• DON'T use damaged or expired abrasive discs — they shatter at high speed.
• DON'T cut into structural members without the engineer's written approval.
• DON'T store oxy-fuel gas cylinders near the cutting area during operations.
• DON'T skip the fire watch after hot cutting — fires start hours later.

See also: Steel Erection Safety | Grinding and Cutting Safety