One of my all time favorite, and most reliable, sources of safety information is the FM Global Data Sheet library. And as I have said for several years now, EVERYONE can get FREE access to this library. If you work for a company that does not want to spend the money on published safety standards and you need to improve your programs and training, this library is a MUST have! Recently FM Global revised their Hot Work Data Sheet to include the following changes:
I have highlighted some of the more significant improvements that may be helpful in improving our hot work programs, practices and permits!
- Redirected the emphasis of the data sheet to avoiding hot work whenever possible and, if unavoidable, employing required precautions to control combustible materials.
- Organized the section on hot work that requires a permit to align with the FM Global Hot Work Permit.
- Clarified existing and added new recommendations on implementing a hot work management program.
- Clarified existing and added new recommendations on protecting hot work designated areas at both new and existing locations.
- Clarified existing and added new recommendations on hot work permit authorization.
- Clarified existing recommendations on defining a hot work area.
- Added illustrations to aid in defining a hot work area.
- Added new recommendations to address the following:
- Hot work on thermally-conductive surfaces extending through building assemblies
- Hot work high-risk areas and operations such as on or in combustible-lined equipment, in unprotected areas, and torch-applied roofing
- Clarified existing recommendations on post-work fire watch responsibilities and durations.
- Clarified existing recommendations on post-work fire monitoring methods and durations.
- Added recommendations to address low-energy hot work operations in both production areas routinely conducting low-energy hot work and hot work permit-required areas.
- Expanded illustrative losses.
- Added an appendix with a sample hot work management policy statement.
- Added an appendix with a sample hot work permit (FM Global Hot Work Permit).
To get this revised data sheet and all the others, CLICK HERE. They do ask that you register, but I have never been “spammed” by FM!