Toolbox talk · General site safety · about 5 minutes
Fire safety and hot works
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
Why it matters
Fires on site spread quickly through materials, waste and temporary structures. Hot work such as welding, cutting and grinding is a common cause.
The hazards
- Sparks from cutting, grinding and welding
- Flammable materials, gases and waste near hot work
- Overloaded or damaged electrics
- Blocked escape routes
Stay safe
- Get a hot works permit where the site requires one
- Clear flammable materials away from the work area or protect them
- Have the right fire extinguisher at hand
- Keep a fire watch during and after hot work for the time the permit sets
- Store gas cylinders and flammables in the designated area
- Keep escape routes and fire points clear
- Know the alarm, escape routes and assembly point
Ask the team
- Where is the nearest fire point?
- What does the hot works permit ask you to check?
- Where is the assembly point?
The law and guidance
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. HSE HSG168, Fire safety in construction.
General guidance to help you give a toolbox talk. It doesn't replace your site's risk assessments, method statements, permits or training. Check it against your own site rules before you give it.