Hot work

Permit, gas-free certificate, fire watch, and the controls that stop a welding spark from becoming a tanker explosion.

Why it matters

Hot work in or near a flammable atmosphere has caused some of the worst tanker casualties in history. The system controls are absolute.

Common hazards

• Flammable cargo or residue in the space below or adjacent.
• Sparks falling on PPE, cargo, or rags.
• Damaged welding leads / fuel hoses.
• Fire watch leaving station before the cool-down period.

Practical checklist

• Permit-to-work signed by Master.
• Gas-free certificate for the space and neighbouring spaces.
• Fire blanket / screens isolating the work.
• Fire watch armed with extinguisher and radio.
• Fire watch in place for a minimum 30 minutes after work stops.
• Equipment isolation and earthing.

Mistakes to avoid

• Treating 'cold cutting' as no-permit work.
• Letting the gas test 'travel' with the permit beyond the tested space.
• Reusing a stale permit for a new shift.

Last verified 15 days ago