Hot work is a process that can be a source of ignition when flammable material is present or can be a fire hazard regardless of the presence of flammable material in the workplace.
Common hot work processes involve welding, soldering, cutting, brazing burning and the use of powder-actuated tools or similar fire producing operations outside of designated hot work areas.
[3] The UK's Health and Safety Executive suggests that a hot work permit should specify: When performing hot work, welders must assess the risk of fire in the work area and implement certain safety precautions if a threat is detected.
Either the welder himself or an appointed laborer must become designated for a fire watch and stay in the area of the hot work for no less than 2 hours after the last of the hot work has been completed.
[5] In the United States, OSHA maintains regulations for hot work in the marine industrial setting.