A risk assessment for hot work operations should include identifying potential hazards, assessing risks, and implementing control measures. Hot work is defined as work involving electric or gas welding, cutting, brazing, or similar flame or spark-producing operations 13, 14.

Hazards Identification:

• Fire and Explosions: Hot work can ignite flammable or explosive substances in the work area [1]. This is especially dangerous in confined spaces [2]. Ensure that hot work is not performed in a hazardous confined space that contains an explosive or flammable hazardous substance in a concentration in excess of 10 % of its lower explosive limit; or oxygen in a concentration in excess of 23 % [2].
• Burns: Workers can be burned by sparks, hot materials, or equipment 15, 18.
• Eye Injuries: Flying sparks and debris can cause eye injuries [3].
• Inhalation of Toxic Fumes: Welding and cutting can produce toxic fumes, especially when working with stainless steels or materials cleaned with flammable liquids 2, 5, 17.
• Electric Shock: Using electrical equipment in wet conditions can lead to electric shock [4].
• Engulfment: Entry into grain storage structures can lead to engulfment hazards [5].

Risk Assessment:

Assess the likelihood and severity of each hazard. Factors to consider include:

• The presence of flammable or explosive substances 4, 5
• The type of hot work being performed 13, 14
• The work environment (e.g., confined space, elevated location) [2]
• The experience and training of the workers [6]

Control Measures:

• Elimination/Substitution: Consider alternative methods that do not involve hot work. If hot work is necessary, use the least hazardous method possible.
• Engineering Controls:
  • Ventilation: Use mechanical ventilation to remove fumes and maintain air quality [4].
  • Isolation: Isolate the hot work area from combustible materials [1].
  • Shielding: Use shields or blankets to contain sparks and protect flammable materials [1].
• Administrative Controls:
  • Hot Work Permit: Implement a hot work permit system to ensure that hazards are identified and controlled before work begins 1, 3, 4, 6, 7. The permit should document fire prevention and protection requirements 1, 3.
  • Fire Watch: Assign a qualified person to patrol the area and maintain a fire watch during and after hot work [2].
  • Training: Provide training to employees on hot work hazards, safe work procedures, and the proper use of PPE [6].
  • Atmospheric Testing: Conduct atmospheric testing to ensure that the work area is free of flammable substances 4, 5.
  • Emergency Procedures: Develop and communicate emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and first aid 9, 11.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or face shields to protect against flying debris and sparks [3].
  • Hand Protection: Wear gloves to protect against burns [3].
  • Protective Clothing: Wear appropriate clothing to protect skin from sparks and hot materials [3].
  • Respiratory Protection: Use respirators when ventilation is inadequate to control exposure to toxic fumes [3].

Monitoring and Review:

• Regularly inspect hot work areas to ensure that control measures are in place and effective.
• Review hot work procedures and permits to identify areas for improvement.
• Investigate incidents and near misses to prevent future occurrences 1, 3.

Specific Recommendations:

• Develop a written hot work program that includes procedures for hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measures.
• Ensure that all workers involved in hot work are properly trained and qualified.
• Maintain a fire extinguisher in the hot work area and ensure that workers are trained in its use [3].
• Follow management of change procedures when introducing new equipment, processes, or materials 1, 3.
• Ensure garbage and materials contaminated by flammable liquids are properly stored in covered receptacles [7].