Hot Work Permit Template

Hot work covers forging, extrusion, hot rolling, and other processes that deform metal using heat or an open flame. These are high-risk operations, so a valid permit is required before work begins. [No information on other specific activities.]

The permit process forces you to verify the precautions before work starts: inspect the equipment, clear or protect combustibles, check the fire protection systems, and set up fire watch and post-work monitoring. The checklist points above show the specific items you must confirm.

A suitable permit confirms sprinklers are in automatic mode with control valves open; hot work equipment has been inspected and is in working order; floors at and below the work area are clear of combustibles or adequately protected; combustible materials are removed or shielded; horizontal surfaces above and below the area are cleaned where accessible; flammable liquids, dust, lint, waste and oil are eliminated as far as feasible; remaining combustibles are covered with fire-resistant blankets, shields or curtains; spark pathways are eliminated or protected; wall and floor openings are sealed with fire-resistant materials or protected by fire-resistant tarpaulins where sealing is not possible; ventilation fans and conveyors are isolated or shut down; the area is free of explosive atmospheres; construction materials are non-combustible and free of combustible coatings or insulation; combustibles on the opposite side of walls or partitions are relocated or protected; enclosed equipment is cleaned and protected; containers are purged of flammable liquids and vapours; a continuous fire watch is maintained during work and for at least 30 minutes after completion, including breaks; fire watch personnel have suitable charged extinguishers and hose lines plus documented training; the area is inspected hourly for at least 2 hours after work or longer if conditions warrant; coverage extends to adjacent areas above and below; confined space entry or lockout/tagout procedures are implemented where needed; and smoke or heat detectors are temporarily deactivated to prevent false alarms.

Record the date the work is conducted, who prepared the permit, and the location; complete the permit before work starts; provide a permit reference number, the type of hot work and the minimum clearance distance to the nearest combustible material; verify each precaution in the list; record any additional observations and corrective actions; sign the permit; and note the finish time plus the actual inspection start and end dates.

Use the scoring to identify deficient areas, then determine their underlying causes so the fire, spark and explosive-atmosphere controls can be corrected before work continues.