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.
Related
High confidence
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