cutting and welding

Hot Work Permits in Construction: The Fire Prevention Program That Prevents Welding-Caused Fires

Welding, cutting, grinding, and other hot work on construction sites ignite fires when flammable materials nearby are unprotected. Hot work permit programs — pre-work hazard assessment, fire watches during and after work, specific precautions — prevent fires that have destroyed buildings under construction and caused fatalities. OSHA 29 CFR 1926 and NFPA 51B govern hot work. Understanding the program is essential for any project involving hot work.