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We also identify and remove hazards that block emergency exits. Patrolling – We look out for any smoke, open flames, or rising temperatures.Our guards serve a vital role in keeping the property and people safe and secure. How many feet must combustible materials be from the point of operation?Ģ.If work is being done on your property that involves open flames or sparks, there is a higher chance of a fire. If you identify hazards or unsafe acts during hot work activities, you should stop work immediately and notify a supervisor. By staying alert, following assigned job tasks, and keeping flammable materials away from ignition sources, fire watchers help ensure the safety of everyone around them.
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For this reason, they need to receive training on various topics, such as the use of fire extinguishers, the hazards with fire watch duties, the use of personal protective equipment, etc. Return all firefighting equipment to their permanent housing following each work shift.įire watchers have a critical job that can save lives, prevent injuries, and preserve property.If you must go, stop the job, and notify the workers. Never leave the work area while hot work is going on.Know the wind direction to understand where sparks and open flames will blow.Stop operations immediately if you identify a hazard.Maintain communication with workers in the area.Keep flammable materials away from ignition sources.Inspect the work area before and after each shift for the potential release of flammable liquids or vapors.Always read, understand, and maintain the conditions stated on the hot work permit.The fire watch may need to stay on-site longer, depending on the conditions of the worksite. According to the NFPA 51B standard, fire watchers must remain on the scene for 60 minutes after work is complete.Fire watchers should refrain from all other job duties.Fire watchers are required to be familiar with facilities for sounding an alarm in the event of a fire.They should try to extinguish fires when within the capacity of the equipment available. Fire watchers are required to have fire extinguishing equipment readily available and be trained in its use.Your employer will determine when fire watch personnel is required. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and NFPA require fire watchers in various situations. If a fire occurs, the fire watch will attempt to extinguish it or will sound a fire alarm. What is a Fire Watch?įire watch personnel are responsible for keeping flammable materials away from ignition sources and watching for sparks, embers, or other possible ignition sources that could start a fire. Utilizing fire watch personnel during hot work activities is one effective safeguard in preventing fires. Fortunately, there are many safeguards that can assist in preventing these incidents. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported that between 2013-2017, US fire departments responded to an average of 4,630 structure fires involving hot work activities each year.
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