Hot Work

Definition of Hot Work

Any work that produce a source of ignition.

Source of Ignition

Hot Rivet, Drilling, Cutting, Welding gas, Grinding, abrasive Hot blasting Works upon Burning Space heating Eg cigarette bud Vehicle Engine Photography Other Activities 

HOT WORK IN CONFINED SPACE HAZARD

• Oxygen more than 23.5% or less than 19.5%
• Accumulation of flammable explosive gases
• Accumulation of toxic fumes other hazards poisonous gases

EFFECT

Explosion/ fire, asphyxiation and fatality.

ACTIVITY HAZARD EFFECT

Spark, fire and burns.

GRINDING

Noise hearing loss

CUTTING/ DRILLING

Grinding wheel pieces, cut/ puncture

BUFFING

• Flying particles
• Eye and skin injury
• Exposure to sharp equipment injury to body
• Welding fumes Health effect
• Welder's eyes Ultra violet light

WELDING
Fire, burns

SOLDERING

Sparks

RIVETING

Hearing loss, Noise, Burns, Hot surfaces

SAFETY MEASURES

Apply Hot Work Permit before performing hot work.

COMPULSORY

• Inspect hot work equipment before use. Example: Grinder Welding equipment appropriate and leather glove.
• Use cotton based PPE such as face shield ear and denim clothing.
• Ensure fire watcher is available while hot work is performed.
• The availability of adequate fire fighting and fire protection equipment.  
• Cover all hazards (flammable substances).
• Use heat barrier or shielding.
• Perform work in safe or designated locations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES DESIGNATION SUPERVISOR 

• Comply with Hot Work Permit requirements. 
• Assign fire watcher while performing hot work. 
• Provide adequate fire protection equipment. 
• Ensure the area is well ventilated for welding and cutting works 
• Ensure the welder is certified and competent.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES WELDER

• Inspect PPE and welding/ cutting equipment before used
• Test for gas leaks on nozzle, gauges and hoses.
• Comply with requirements stated in the Hot Work Permit.
• Only trained and certified welder is allowed to work. 

DESIGNATION DUTIES RESPONSIBILITIES FIRE WATCHER 

• Always available at the hot work area
• Provide fire fighting equipment. 
• Control the fire if possible 
• Sound the alarm if the fire is out of control
• Monitor the work area within hours (30 minutes) after job is completed 

HOT WORK PERMIT 

Compulsory all types of hot work. Valid for one (1) day duration

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

• Safety helmet 
• Welding shield
• Long sleeve jacket
• Leather glove 
• Safety shoes
• Ear plug
• Safety goggle
• Fumes mask

CONCLUSION

Supervisor, Welder and Fire Watcher are responsible in ensuring the safety and health during hot work activities.