Hot Works RAMS Guide for UK Contractors

Key Topics in a Hot Works RAMS

Hot works permit to work

A formal written hot works permit to work must be issued before any hot works commence. The permit must identify: the exact location; the type of hot works; the start and end time; the fire watch period after completion; the person authorising the permit; and the fire safety measures in place. Permits must be time-limited (typically per shift or per day) and cannot be issued verbally. The RAMS must describe the permit process and name who is authorised to issue hot works permits on the project.

Fire watch — during and after hot works

A dedicated fire watch must be maintained during all hot works. After hot works cease, a fire watch of at least 60 minutes must be maintained at the work location (many insurance policies require 2 hours and some require fire watch at intervals up to 8 hours after completion). The RAMS must specify the fire watch period required and by whom. Smouldering fires from hot works can take hours to develop into a serious fire — post-work fire watch is one of the most commonly omitted controls.

Fire extinguisher provision

Appropriate fire extinguishers must be immediately available at the hot works location throughout the operation and fire watch period. For welding and cutting, a minimum of one CO2 and one dry powder or water mist extinguisher is typically required. For torch-applied roofing, a foam or water extinguisher should be within 5 metres of the torch operator. The RAMS must specify the type and number of extinguishers, confirm they are recently serviced, and ensure operatives know how to use them.

Combustible material clearance

All combustible materials must be removed from a minimum 5 metre radius of the hot works location before work commences. Where combustible materials cannot be removed (e.g. structural timber, existing insulation), they must be shielded with non-combustible protection (fire blankets, steel plates). Where hot works are above combustible materials in a floor or ceiling void, the void must be checked and combustibles removed or protected.