Employer Duties - Hot Work Checklist

OSHA provides a convenient checklist of safety procedures for hot work. Some of the key points on the list, applicable in all maritime environments, include the following:

• Are only authorized and trained personnel permitted to use welding, cutting, or brazing equipment?
• Are compressed gas cylinders regularly examined for obvious signs of defects, deep rusting, or leakage?
• Are precautions taken to prevent the mixture of air or oxygen with flammable gases, except at a burner or in a standard torch?
• Is it prohibited to use cylinders as rollers or supports?
• Is it required that electric power to the welder be shut off when no one is in attendance?
• Is suitable fire extinguishing equipment available for immediate use?
• Are precautions taken to protect combustibles on the other side of metal walls when welding is under way?
• Are employees who are exposed to the hazards created by welding, cutting, or brazing operations protected with PPE and clothing?
• Is a check made for adequate ventilation in and where welding or cutting is performed?

It is recommended that each maritime employer develop a similar and workplace-specific checklist to ensure safe conditions during every hot work situation.

To learn more about Shipyard Hot Work visit our Shipyard Hot Work Online Training web page.