ISO 45001 Hot Work Permit Template

Introduction

Hot work is a type of work activity that involves open flame or produces heat and/or sparks as a part of its functioning. A number of industrial facilities regularly perform hot work, which is usually highly hazardous and can lead to serious incidents. Implementation of ISO 45001 standards in organizations is an important safety activity that helps in reducing incidents and ensuring the safety of workers and the environment. Thus, an ISO 45001 hot work permit template is an essential part of an organization’s safety management system, aiding in implementation of actions that help reduce the risks connected to hot work.

Hot Work Definition and Risks

Hot work is defined as a work practice that can create a source of ignition, such as open flame or extreme heat, with the potential to cause damage to the environment, people, and/or structures.

Types of Hot Work

These include the following:

• Welding and Cutting (arc, gas, plasma): Can produce open flame, sparks, and heat.
  
  

• Brazing and Soldering: Can produce heat.
  
  

• Grinding: Can produce sparks and heat.
  
  

• Thawing pipes: Can involve open flame or heat.
  
  

• Bitumen/roofing.

Hazards Presented by Hot Work

They include the following:

• Fire: Sparks can reach fuel sources up to 35+ ft. away; common fuel sources are wood, paper, textiles, gas, or dust.
  
  

• Explosion: Can occur near flammable materials.
  
  

• Burns: Contact with open flame, hot materials, or heat.
  
  

• Inhalation of fumes and gases: Harmful gases produced by welding/cutting.
  
  

• UV and infrared exposure: From welding arcs.

A hot work permit is a mandatory document for organizations performing hot work to ensure that all possible safety measures are put in place.

ISO 45001 Overview

ISO 45001:2018 is an international standard relating to occupational health and safety (OHS). The main purpose of the standard is to help organizations achieve greater occupational health and safety performance by providing a systematic framework to manage and improve occupational health and safety within an organization in order to reduce incidents and ill health.

ISO 45001 helps organizations fulfill their duty of care to employees and others who are affected by their work by emphasizing the control of OHS risks and improvement of OHS performance.

Regarding hot work, clause 6.1.2.2 of ISO 45001:2018 focuses on operational control and requires organizations to “carry out a hazard identification and risk assessment process covering all work activities, including those of contractors and subcontractors, and to establish controls to eliminate hazards or reduce risks to acceptable levels.” Thus, a hot work permit system is one of the effective ways to implement controls regarding hot work.

ISO 45001 Hot Work Permit

One of the most crucial aspects of an ISO 45001 compliant hot work system is the implementation of a hot work permit, which will help any organization in controlling hot work-related risks and therefore meeting the requirements of ISO 45001. A hot work permit template should include detailed information about hazards of hot work and control measures that need to be implemented. It is important to note that an ISO 45001 compliant hot work permit should also include such elements as fire watch, fire extinguishers, and fire hose. A comprehensive hot work permit template can be found here.

Need for a Hot Work Permit System

There are several reasons why a hot work permit system in an organization should comply with ISO 45001.

• First of all, an ISO 45001 compliant hot work system will ensure that all control measures are considered and implemented.
  
  

• Then, a hot work system that meets ISO 45001 requirements will help the organization in being in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. In many cases, such systems are mandatory for organizations that perform hot work.
  
  

• Finally, a hot work permit will also contribute to creating and maintaining a safe working culture in an organization.

The Importance of an ISO 45001 Hot Work Permit Template

An ISO 45001 hot work permit template should present a comprehensive overview of hot work hazards and measures that should be taken in order to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. In addition, the implementation of such a system will help in satisfying legal and regulatory requirements and creating a safe working culture within an organization. As a result, an organization will experience the benefits of a safer workplace and increased employees’ satisfaction and productivity, as well as reduced incidents and costs.

Key Elements of a Hot Work Permit System

Any hot work permit template should have the following elements:

1. Basic Information

This section should provide the following information:

• Permit Number.
  
  

• Date and Time of Issue/Expiration.
  
  

• Location of Hot Work.
  
  

• Description of Work.
  
  

• Persons Involved (Name, Position, etc.).

2. Hazard Identification

This section includes a list of potential hazards that can be associated with hot work. This list can be developed based on the type of work and the location where the work will be performed. Hazards can include the following:

• Flammable materials – liquids, gas, dust, etc.
  
  

• Confined space.
  
  

• Overhead work.
  
  

• Below-grade work.
  
  

• Lack of Ventilation.
  
  

• Ignition sources.

3. Pre-Work Control Measures Checklist

This section should include a list of all control measures that should be taken before the beginning of hot work. In order for hot work to be safe, all required control measures should be taken into account and implemented. This section should include items such as the following:

• Flammable materials removal/protection – combustibles within a 35′ radius or 11 meters should be removed or protected with fire-resistant shields.
  
  

• Fire extinguishers/hose – appropriate fire extinguishers should be available in the work zone; fire hose should be available if the fire protection system is not functioning.
  
  

• Fire-watch assignment – a fire watch should be appointed, briefed, and equipped with appropriate tools.
  
  

• Area isolation – cracks, drains, and holes should be sealed to prevent sparks from entering.
  
  

• Ventilation – local exhaust ventilation or general ventilation should be provided.
  
  

• PPE – welding helmets, gloves, safety glasses, flame-resistant clothing, etc.
  
  

• Gas testing – if applicable.
  
  

• Electrical safety – equipment should be examined, and proper grounding should be provided.
  
  

• Check walls, ceilings, and floors below and around the work area for any possible fuel sources.

4. Fire Watch and Post-Work Monitoring

Fire watch is required during hot work and should continue after the work is complete for a specified period of time. In this section, the length of fire watch should be specified. In addition, a check of the work area should be completed to make sure that no hazard sources are left.

5. Authorization and Signatures

The authorization and signatures section should include the names of the permit issuer, the supervisor/foreman, the hot work operator, and the fire watch. Finally, all these people should sign to confirm that they have read and understood the conditions of the hot work permit.

6. Emergency Procedures

This section should provide brief information about alarm pull stations and emergency response procedures.

Implementing and Managing the Hot Work Permit System

For the system to be effective, it should undergo a mandatory implementation phase. In this phase, all employees should be trained on the new hot work system and control measures. In addition, it is important to conduct audits to determine whether the system is functioning effectively.

Conclusion

Hot work is one of the most hazardous types of work that can lead to incidents. Implementation of a hot work permit system that complies with ISO 45001 standards can greatly reduce the risks associated with hot work and, thus, increase the safety level within an organization. The hot work permit system includes a hot work permit form, which should provide a detailed list of potential hazards and control measures. The use of such a system will ensure that all safety aspects are considered before hot work begins and that all employees are aware of the hazards and control measures. Therefore, it is of paramount importance for any organization that performs hot work to implement a hot work permit template that is ISO 45001 compliant.