What is the purpose of a fire watch during hot work operations?

The purpose of a fire watch during hot work operations is to monitor fire hazards and suppress potential fires. This role is critical because hot work, such as welding or cutting, produces sparks and heat that can ignite flammable materials in the vicinity. The fire watch is specifically tasked with observing the area for signs of smoke or flames, ready to intervene by using appropriate fire suppression equipment, such as fire extinguishers or hoses, if a fire does occur.

This proactive monitoring helps to ensure a safe working environment and minimizes the risk of fire-related incidents, which can lead to severe damage, injury, or loss of life. The fire watch also plays a key role in coordination with the hot work crew to identify and mitigate any fire hazards before work begins. This aspect of the fire watch’s duties underscores the importance of fire safety during operations involving heat and flames.