What must a hot-work permit specify during a risk assessment?

The hot-work permit is an essential safety document used to manage risks associated with activities that can ignite fires, such as welding, cutting, or grinding. Specifying that work must be completed at least one hour before the site's closure is critical for safety protocols. This timeframe allows for proper ventilation, cooling, and observation after the hot work is completed. Any residual heat or sparks can remain for some time after the work stops, so having this buffer period ensures that any potential fire hazards are mitigated before the site is shut down for the day. Furthermore, it allows for fire watch personnel to monitor the area, ensuring that any smoldering materials do not ignite.

While having fire extinguishers on hand, wearing fire-resistant clothing, and scheduling the work to begin by the end of the day are also important safety measures, they do not directly address the immediate need for post-work assessments and precautionary measures after high-risk activities have ended. The one-hour completion guideline specifically acknowledges the potential continuing risk that hot work can pose to site safety, emphasizing its priority in the risk assessment process.