Hot Work Section
All hot work shall be performed in a Designated Hot Work Area, if possible. A Designated Hot Work Area must meet the following requirements:
The Designated Hot Work Area shall be a discrete area, sectioned off by noncombustible walls, or curtains.
Adequate ventilation, such as a suction hood system providing 20 air changes per hour, should be provided for the work area.
Where welding, cutting and brazing are done near walls, partitions, ceilings, or a roof of combustible construction, fire-resistant shields or guards shall be provided to prevent ignition.
Protective dividers such as welding curtains or non-combustible walls will be provided to contain sparks and slag to the combustible free area.
Flammable and combustible liquids and material will be kept 35 feet from work area.
Floors shall be swept and clean of combustibles within 35 feet of work area.
At least one 10 lb. dry chemical fire extinguisher should be within access of the 35 feet of work area.
Hot Work in areas not designated as Hot Work Areas. When welding, cutting, or brazing work is to be done outside of a Designated Hot Work Area, it is necessary to meet the following requirements:
A Hot Work Permit is required for all Hot Work.
Flammable materials that cannot be removed from the area must be adequately covered or guarded before hot work is started.
All floor openings and cracks shall be closed, sealed and/or covered to ensure that sparks cannot drop into the openings and come into contact with combustible materials.
Guards, shields, and or fire-blankets shall be used to confine the heat, sparks and/or slag from coming into contact with any combustible material with 35 feet of the hot work
Portable welding curtains or shields must be used to protect other workers in the welding area. Airflow away from the welder and others present must be established and maintained.
Plastic materials must be covered with welding tarps during welding procedures.
Suitable fire extinguishing equipment shall be maintained in a state of readiness at all times for instant use. This may include fire extinguishers, water hoses or buckets of sand, depending on the nature of the combustible material exposed.