Hot Works Risk Assessment & Method Statement

Hot works including welding, cutting, grinding, and flame-based activities present significant fire and burn risks requiring strict controls.

Hot works are activities that generate heat, sparks, or flames capable of igniting flammable materials. A permit-to-work system is essential.

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Key Hazards

⚠️Fire and explosion
⚠️Burns from flames, sparks, or hot materials
⚠️Fume inhalation
⚠️Arc eye (welding flash)
⚠️Electric shock (electric welding)
⚠️Compressed gas cylinder hazards
⚠️Noise exposure
⚠️Manual handling of equipment

Control Measures

✓Hot works permit to work system
✓Fire watch during and minimum 60 minutes after
✓Remove or protect combustible materials within 10m radius
✓Fire extinguishers readily available
✓Welding screens and barriers
✓Local exhaust ventilation for fumes
✓Gas cylinder safety (storage, handling, securing)
✓Competent trained operatives only

PPE Requirements

  • 🛡️Welding helmet with correct shade filter
  • 🛡️Flame-resistant coveralls
  • 🛡️Leather welding gloves and sleeves
  • 🛡️Safety boots
  • 🛡️Respiratory protection (fume exposure)
  • 🛡️Hearing protection
  • 🛡️Safety glasses under welding helmet

Legal Requirements

  • 📋Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
  • 📋Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
  • 📋Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
  • 📋Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992

Step-by-Step Method

1. Complete hot works permit
2. Conduct fire risk assessment of area
3. Clear 10m radius of combustibles
4. Protect immovable combustibles with fire blankets
5. Position fire extinguishers
6. Erect welding screens
7. Set up ventilation/extraction
8. Test equipment before use
9. Station fire watch
10. Conduct hot works
11. Fire watch continues 60 min minimum after completion
12. Close out permit when area deemed safe

Emergency Procedures

• In case of fire: Raise alarm, evacuate area, call 999, use extinguisher only if safe to do so
• For burns: Cool with water for minimum 10 minutes, seek first aid
• For fume exposure: Move to fresh air, seek medical attention
• For arc eye: Do not rub eyes, seek medical attention
• Emergency contacts: [List]