Hot work permit — pre-work checklist
Checks to complete on each hot work permit before welding, cutting or grinding starts: combustibles cleared within 11 m, sprinklers in service, equipment inspected, gas tested where needed, fire watch assigned during and after the work.
22 itemsWorkplace safetyVersion 1Updated
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Category: Permit — pre-work checklist
- Permit type: Hot Work
- Filled in on each permit concerned, before the work starts.
Imported as a draft: it is not used until you review it and click Activate on the HSE template. Once activated, it is used on every new permit of this type and replaces the checklist in use.
Checklist items
Type of hot work
ChoiceRequired- Welding
- Flame cutting
- Grinding
- Brazing or soldering
- Other
Hot work cannot be avoided
No cold method (mechanical cutting, bolting) can be used, and the part cannot be moved to a designated hot work area.
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitSprinkler and fire alarm systems in the area are in service
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitDetectors isolated for the work
Zone isolated to avoid false alarms, by whom, and the time it will be restored. Leave empty if none.
Free textoptionalCombustibles removed within 11 m (35 ft), or protected
What cannot be moved is covered with fire-resistant blankets or shielded with metal guards.
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitFloors swept clean of combustible debris
Combustible floors are wetted down or covered with damp sand or fire-resistant sheets.
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitOpenings in walls, floors, ducts and conveyors within 11 m are covered so sparks cannot travel
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitFlammable liquids, gases and dusts removed from the area
Where they may still be present, the atmosphere is tested at the work point before work starts.
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitGas test at the work point (% LEL)
Record the reading when flammables may be present. Work only within the limit set by your site procedure.
NumberoptionalTanks, pipes and containers worked on are emptied, cleaned, purged or inerted, and isolated
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitThe other side of walls, partitions and ceilings has been checked for combustibles and heat transfer
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitHot work equipment inspected
Hoses, regulators, flashback arrestors, cables and earth clamps in good condition; gas cylinders secured upright.
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitA suitable fire extinguisher is at the work point, and the operator is trained to use it
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitA fire watch is assigned and present during the work
Trained, with an extinguisher and a means to raise the alarm, and with no other task while watching.
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitFire watch after the work ends (minutes)
Many standards and insurers ask for at least 60 minutes, then periodic checks for several hours. Follow your site procedure.
NumberRequiredThe operator wears the protective equipment the task requires
Welding helmet or goggles, flame-resistant clothing, gloves and safety footwear.
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitVentilation or fume extraction is adequate for the process and the space
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitWelding screens protect people nearby from arc flash and spatter
Pass / FailoptionalThe area is cordoned off and signed “Hot work in progress”
Pass / FailoptionalThe operator and the fire watch know the emergency number and the nearest alarm call point
Pass / FailCritical: a failure blocks the permitPhoto of the prepared work area
PhotooptionalAdditional precautions or remarks
Free textoptional
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Official FreeMaint template, free to use and adapt inside your FreeMaint workspace. An adaptation may be shared in the library under CC BY 4.0; its page then credits this template.
Templates are general guidance. They do not replace the manufacturer’s instructions, your site procedures or applicable regulations.
Equipment: Workplace safety
Industries: Manufacturing, Facilities, Energy and utilities, Construction, Food and beverage
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