Fire Watch Safety Checklist
Date: 2025-09-07
Inspector: [INSPECTOR NAME]
Location/Area: [LOCATION/AREA]
Department: [DEPARTMENT]
Purpose
This checklist is to be used by designated fire watch personnel to ensure that all potential fire hazards are identified, monitored, and controlled during and after hot work operations or in any situation where a fire hazard may be present. It helps to maintain regulatory compliance and minimize the risk of fire-related incidents.
Instructions for Use
- Review this checklist before, during, and after hot work operations or any activity that may create a fire hazard.
- Complete each item on the checklist and document any findings or corrective actions taken.
- Ensure that all fire watch personnel are trained on how to use this checklist.
Frequency
This checklist should be completed: Continuous monitoring during fire watch; review and update checklist annually.
Safety Checklist
General Fire Watch Requirements
These requirements apply to all fire watch personnel and activities.
Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
Fire watch personnel are trained in fire prevention and the use of fire extinguishers. Check: Training records are current and available. Personnel can demonstrate proper use of fire extinguishers. If failed: Provide immediate training or refresher training to fire watch personnel. | _________________ | ||
Fire watch personnel are aware of the facility's fire safety plan and emergency procedures. Check: Personnel can describe the fire safety plan, evacuation routes, and emergency contact information. If failed: Review the fire safety plan with fire watch personnel. | _________________ | ||
Fire watch personnel have the authority to stop work if fire hazards are identified. Check: Personnel understand their authority and responsibility to stop work. If failed: Reinforce the stop-work authority during training. | _________________ |
Pre-Operation Checklist
To be completed before hot work or any activity that may create a fire hazard begins.
Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
Ensure a hot work permit has been issued, if required. Check: A valid hot work permit is present and signed by authorized personnel. If failed: Do not proceed without a valid hot work permit. Obtain the permit and ensure all conditions are met. | _________________ | ||
Verify that all combustible materials have been removed from the work area or are protected with fire-resistant covers. Check: No combustible materials are within 35 feet of the hot work area, or all combustibles are properly protected. If failed: Remove or protect all combustible materials before starting work. | _________________ | ||
Confirm that fire suppression equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, water hoses) is readily available and in good working order. Check: Fire extinguishers are fully charged and inspected. Water hoses are connected and functional. If failed: Replace or recharge fire extinguishers. Repair or replace damaged water hoses. | _________________ | ||
Inspect the work area for any potential ignition sources or fire hazards. Check: No ignition sources are present, or they are properly controlled. If failed: Eliminate or control any identified ignition sources. | _________________ |
During Operation Checklist
To be completed during hot work or any activity that may create a fire hazard.
Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
Continuously monitor the work area for any signs of fire or smoke. Check: Fire watch personnel are actively observing the work area. If failed: Maintain continuous monitoring; do not leave the area unattended. | _________________ | ||
Ensure that sparks, slag, and heat are contained within the designated work area. Check: Sparks and slag are not escaping the work area. If failed: Implement additional spark and slag containment measures (e.g., screens, barriers). | _________________ | ||
Maintain communication with workers performing hot work. Check: Regular communication is maintained to address any emerging hazards. If failed: Establish and maintain clear communication channels. | _________________ | ||
Be prepared to activate the fire alarm and initiate evacuation procedures if a fire starts. Check: Fire watch personnel know the location of fire alarms and evacuation routes. If failed: Review fire alarm and evacuation procedures with personnel. | _________________ |
Post-Operation Checklist
To be completed after hot work or any activity that may create a fire hazard has been completed.
Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
Maintain a fire watch for at least 30 minutes after completion of hot work to monitor for any smoldering fires. Check: Fire watch is maintained for the specified duration. If failed: Continue fire watch for the required time period. | _________________ | ||
Inspect the work area and surrounding areas for any signs of fire, smoke, or hot spots. Check: No signs of fire, smoke, or hot spots are present. If failed: Extinguish any remaining hot spots or smoldering materials. | _________________ | ||
Properly dispose of any hot materials, such as welding rods or slag. Check: Hot materials are disposed of in a designated safe container. If failed: Ensure proper disposal of hot materials. | _________________ | ||
Document the completion of the fire watch and any incidents that occurred. Check: A written record of the fire watch is completed and filed. If failed: Complete and file the fire watch record. | _________________ |
Equipment and Materials
Checklist items related to equipment and materials used during the fire watch.
Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
Ensure that the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers are available. Check: Fire extinguishers are of the correct type (ABC, CO2) and readily accessible. If failed: Provide the correct type and number of fire extinguishers. | _________________ | ||
Verify that fire-resistant blankets or screens are in good condition and available for use. Check: Blankets and screens are free from damage and readily accessible. If failed: Replace damaged blankets or screens. | _________________ | ||
Check that communication devices (e.g., radios, phones) are functioning properly. Check: Communication devices are operational and charged. If failed: Repair or replace faulty communication devices. | _________________ |
General Requirements
Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
All personnel involved in or affected by hot work operations must be trained in fire safety and emergency procedures. Check: Training records are up-to-date and readily available. If failed: Provide or schedule necessary training. | _________________ | ||
Ensure that all equipment used in hot work operations is properly maintained and in good working condition. Check: Equipment maintenance records are current. If failed: Repair or replace faulty equipment. | _________________ | ||
Comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fire safety regulations and codes. Check: Knowledge of and adherence to relevant regulations. If failed: Consult with safety personnel to ensure compliance. | _________________ |
Failed Item Procedures
- If any item fails the checklist, immediately take corrective action to address the issue. If the issue cannot be immediately resolved, stop the hot work or activity until the issue is resolved.
- Report all failed items and corrective actions to the supervisor or designated safety personnel.
Documentation Requirements
Maintain records of fire watch training, hot work permits, and fire watch checklists.
Checklist Completion
Overall Status: ☐ Pass ☐ Fail ☐ Corrective Actions Required
Inspector Signature: Date:
Supervisor Review: Date:
Corrective Actions Completed By: Date:
References and Standards
- Refer to local fire codes and regulations for specific requirements.
- Refer to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.38 for emergency action plan requirements.
- Refer to NFPA standards for fire prevention and protection measures.
This checklist must be retained for [RETENTION PERIOD].
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