The precautions that stop a soldering or hot-works task starting a fire on site.
Hot works, such as soldering with a blowtorch, using a hot-air tool or grinding, are a leading cause of fires on building sites, often starting after the work is finished. Use this as a revision checklist of the precautions; follow the current HSE guidance and any site permit.
- Plan and permit. On many sites hot works need a permit that records the precautions and the time limits, so check whether one is required before you start.
- Clear the area. Remove combustible materials from around the work, or where they cannot be moved, cover and protect them with suitable fire-resistant material.
- Mind hidden voids. Be alert to what is behind the surface you are heating, because heat can travel through pipes and into wall and floor voids and ignite dust or timber out of sight.
- Protect with a heat mat. Use a heat-resistant mat or guard between the flame and any surface that could scorch or catch.
- Keep firefighting to hand. Have a suitable fire extinguisher within reach and know how to raise the alarm.
- Use the minimum heat. Use the right tool and no more heat than the job needs, and never leave a lit torch unattended.
- Keep a fire watch. After finishing, watch the area for a period before leaving, because a smouldering fire can take time to develop, and check again before you go.
The danger with hot works is the fire you do not see start, so the precautions are about prevention and a watch afterwards. Follow current HSE guidance and the site fire and permit rules for real work.
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