Hot Work

Department Responsibilities:

Each department engaged in welding, cutting, or brazing operations shall do so in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.251 and this policy.

The Supervisor/Manager of each department conducting welding, cutting, or brazing operations shall be responsible for enforcing this policy and ensuring that all cutting and welding equipment is in satisfactory condition and in good repair.

It is each employee’s responsibility to:

  • Follow and use hot work procedures;
  • Ensure that all cutting and welding equipment is in satisfactory condition and in good repair;
  • Attend and actively participate in training sessions; and
  • Protect nearby personnel and passers by against heat, sparks, etc. when working in occupied buildings.

Outside contractors performing work on University property are required to follow the requirements of OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.251 and this policy. Outside contractors working on University property are required to have a hot work permit, which can be obtained from Facilities Services.

Hazards:

There are several hazards to consider when performing welding, cutting, or brazing operations. These hazards include fires, explosions, electrocution, burns, welder’s flash, oxygen depletion, and toxic fumes. Each Supervisor/Manager will be responsible to ensure their personnel are aware of these hazards and have taken adequate steps to prevent such an occurrence.

Personal Protective Equipment:

It is the responsibility of the Supervisor/Manager to ensure each employee utilizes the appropriate equipment required to safely perform welding, cutting, or brazing operations. This includes the personal protective equipment listed below:

  • Respirators should be used when ventilation is less than adequate.
  • Flame retardant clothing should be worn to prevent clothing from catching on fire.
  • High top boots should be worn to prevent burns to the legs and feet.
  • Gloves are recommended to prevent hand burns.
  • All personnel are required to use an approved welder’s shield or goggles. All shields must be ANSI (American National Standard Institute) approved and the proper shade for the type of operation being performed.

Training:

Supervisors/Managers are required to ensure personnel who weld, cut, or braze have received proper training. They are also responsible to ensure personnel are trained in the following areas:

  • Fire extinguisher use;
  • Respirator training, if they’re required to use a respirator;
  • How to respond to an emergency (emergency numbers and alarm locations);
  • Confined space training, which includes all requirements of the Confined Space Policy, if personnel are required to work in confined spaces; and
  • Personal protective equipment and the type of shield required for their specific operation.