When hot work needs a fire watch
OSHA (29 CFR 1910.252 for general industry and 1926.352 for construction), NFPA 51B, and the fire code all require a fire watch when hot work is done where more than a minor fire could develop — for example, when combustible materials are within 35 feet of the work, or when openings, walls, or ceilings could carry sparks to combustibles out of sight. Your hot work permit, owner, or insurer may require one on every job.
- Welding and cutting on structural steel, piping, tanks, and equipment
- Grinding and torch work during tenant improvements and renovations
- Torch-applied roofing and membrane work
- Brazing and soldering near insulation, framing, or stored goods
- Shipyard, refinery, plant shutdown, and turnaround hot work
What our hot work watch does
Our watch arrives before the first arc is struck, walks the area with your crew, checks that combustibles are moved or covered, and confirms extinguishers are charged and in reach. During the work they watch the work and everything around, above, and below it. After work stops, they stay for the post-work watch your permit requires and sweep the area — including adjacent rooms and floors — before signing off.
- On site and briefed before hot work begins
- Dedicated watch — no other duties while work is under way
- Extinguishers ready and the location of alarms and phones known
- Post-work watch of at least 30 minutes, longer when your permit or insurer requires
- Hot work permit sign-off and a written log for every shift
Hot Work Fire Watch FAQ
How long does the fire watch stay after hot work ends?
OSHA and the fire code require at least 30 minutes after the work is finished. NFPA 51B, many insurers, and many facility permit programs require longer. We follow whichever requirement is strictest for your job.
Can one fire watch cover several welders?
Only if they can see every work area and everything sparks could reach. Separate areas, levels, or rooms usually need separate watches. Tell us how many crews and areas you have and we’ll size the coverage.
Do you supply extinguishers?
Our personnel carry the equipment they need to do the job. Your site should still have the extinguishers your permit requires at each work area — we check them before work starts.