Hot Work Guidelines (Welding, Grinding, Cutting, Burning)

Introduction

These Guidelines assist in the management of risks associated with Hot Work.
 
Hot Work is any work that may generate flames, heat or sparks and it includes grinding, cutting, welding and use of open flames.
 

Hazard Assessment

A hazard assessment must be completed before Hot Work commences.
 
The following hazards may exist:

• Fire
• Explosion
• Electrocution
• Burns
• Arc-flash
• Oxygen-depletion
• Toxic fumes

You must inspect the area in which the work is to be performed and consider all possible hazards and any necessary precautions.
 
Consider adjacent areas as well, especially in the vicinity of chemistry laboratories and air-conditioning / ventilation intakes.
 
The hazard assessment must be signed by the person undertaking the assessment.

Hot Work Permit

Hot Work Permits are not required:

• for tasks undertaken in recognised workshops where welding, grinding and burning are routine operations;
• for use of portable gas-fired space-heating or cooking equipment that is hired for specific short-term use.
   

In all other circumstances a Hot Work Permit must be completed before any work involving welding, grinding, gas-cutting, flame heating or any other flame / spark producing equipment is commenced.

The Hot Work Permit must list:

• details of the task
• the location
• all precautions required (including the provision of fire blankets and flash screens where required)
   

The people issuing the Hot Work Permit must satisfy themselves that all appropriate measures have been taken, and all equipment complies with the relevant standards and codes prior to hot work commencing.
 
They should give additional instructions where their local knowledge suggests further precautions.

 Display of permits and warning signs

Permits and warning signs are to be displayed at entry points to hot work areas.
Permits must be valid at the time work is being undertaken.
Copies must be made where more than one entry point exists.

Fire Detection Systems

Fire detection systems (smoke or thermal) must be isolated prior to work commencing.
 
Fire detectors (smoke or thermal) are not to be isolated without first notifying the University Security Office and the Building Fire Warden.

Impairment Notification Form

Should the hot work extend beyond University operating hours (6.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.) or span of shift, with the fire protection system to remain isolated, an impairment notification form must be completed by an authorised person and faxed to the University fire insurers and the University Insurance Officer.

Personal Protective Equipment

As required to complete the particular work (e.g. welding, grinding etc.)

Further Information

View the Maintenance Departments’ Safe Operating Procedure for Hot Work here. 
 
Contact the Maintenance Operations Manager on 13728 for further information if required.

Last updated: 27 October 2005