Hot Work Permits & Fire Extinguishers

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! We’ve covered the fire triangle and the proper storage of flammables. Today, we're talking about the procedures and tools to manage fire risk during the most common fire-prone tasks on a job site.

Hot Work: The Permit and the Fire Watch

Hot work is any activity that can produce a spark, flame, or heat and includes welding, cutting, grinding, and soldering. It is a major cause of construction fires.

• Hot Work Permit: A permit is a checklist that ensures all fire risks have been assessed and controlled before the work begins. It should be issued by a supervisor and include details like the work to be done, the time, and the fire prevention measures in place. Never perform hot work without a valid permit.

• Fire Watch: A designated person whose sole responsibility is to watch for sparks and embers during hot work and for at least 30 minutes after the work is completed. The amount of time also depends on the location of the hot work. They must have a working fire extinguisher and be prepared to use it or sound the alarm.

The Tool for the Job: Fire Extinguishers

Every job site must have fire extinguishers readily available. Knowing which one to use and how to use it can be the difference between a small fire and a major incident.

• The A, B, Cs:

  • Class A: For ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.

  • Class B: For flammable liquids and gases like gasoline and grease.

  • Class C: For electrical fires.

  • Note: Many modern extinguishers are multi-purpose, marked with an "ABC" rating.

• The P.A.S.S. Method:

  • Pull the pin.

  • Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.

  • Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishing agent.

  • Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire.

Knowing when to use a permit and how to use an extinguisher are fundamental parts of a proactive fire safety plan.

Tomorrow, we'll discuss the most important part of fire safety: a practiced evacuation plan.

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-The Safety Man