Hot Works Permits: Process and Risks

Hot works — welding, cutting, soldering, grinding — are the leading cause of construction fires in South Africa. Permit systems formalise the safety controls that must be in place before sparks start flying.

What counts as hot works

• Welding (arc, MIG, TIG)
• Brazing and soldering
• Cutting (oxy-fuel, plasma)
• Grinding (sparks generated)
• Use of blowtorches
• Hot bitumen application (roofing)

Permit requirements

Typical permit includes:

• Location and time of work
• Description of hot work
• Hazards in area (combustibles, fuels, dust)
• Precautions taken (clearing, screens, fire extinguisher)
• Fire watch arrangements
• Time of completion + fire watch period (typically 60 min)
• Sign-off by issuer and recipient

Pre-work controls

• Clear combustibles within 10m
• Wet down combustibles that can't be removed
• Screen welding sparks (welding blankets)
• Cover floor openings
• Identify other workers in the area
• Fire extinguisher present
• Suitable PPE for hot work

Fire watch

Person dedicated to watching for fire during and after work:

• During work
• At least 60 minutes after work ends
• Suitable extinguisher in hand
• Means of raising alarm

Insurance

Most Contractors All Risks policies require hot works permits and impose conditions. Breach voids cover for fire-related claims.

Refurbishment risks

Hot works in existing buildings face hidden hazards:

• Voids extending fire to adjoining spaces
• Old timber and insulation
• Live operations (e.g. petrol stations, kitchens)
• Heritage materials (lime mortar, lath and plaster)

MCFAR coordinates engineering work with hot works compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions