Hot work permit program
Hot work is defined as any operation that involves or generates open flames, sparks or heat that could become a fire hazard. Examples include cutting, welding, grinding, torch-applied roof covers, soldering, etc. A permit should be completed when conducting hot work operations outside a permanent designated area.
The permit should be completed by a person in charge, such as the supervisor, who should:
- Establish fire watch precautions
- Inspect the worksite and check the precaution before signing the permit authorizing the work and allowing the operation to proceed.
For more information and a sample permit, download the attached Sample hot work permit.
Sample hot work permit checklist
| Sprinklers are in service |
| Cutting and welding equipment in good repair/inspected |
Precautions within 35 feet of work
| Floors swept clean of combustibles |
| Combustible floors wet down, covered with damp sand or fire resistive material |
| Flammable liquids removed |
| Combustibles not removed protected with fire resistive tarpaulins or metal shields |
| All wall and floor openings covered with fire resistant tarpaulins or metal shields |
Work on walls or ceilings
| Fire resistive tarpaulins suspended beneath work |
| Enclosed equipment cleaned of all combustibles |
| Containers purged of flammable liquids or removed from area |
| Combustibles moved away from other side of wall |
| Construction is non-combustible, including coverings or insulation |
Fire watch
| Fire watch will be provided during and for at least 30 minutes after work is completed, and during all breaks. |
| Fire watch is supplied with suitable extinguishers or charged small fire hose. |
| Fire watch has been trained in the use of firefighting equipment and emergency procedures. |
To learn more about Hanover Risk Solutions, visit hanoverrisksolutions.com
The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("The Hanover") specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.
LC APR 2019-399
171-0987 (2/14)