Brigham Young University - Idaho

BYU-Idaho is committed to providing a safe work place for all individuals working in university facilities. The primary purpose of this plan is to ensure that university employees, students, and visitors are protected from fire and smoke, and that applicable safety and fire code regulatory requirements are followed.

This policy applies to all BYU-Idaho personnel engaged in the operation of hot work as defined below.  Reporting requirements also apply to non-university construction personnel working in BYU-Idaho facilities.

 1. Definitions  

Hot Work- Any operation being performed with an open flame, spark, and heat generating tool or appliance. This includes, but is not limited to, brazing, cutting, grinding, soldering, welding, or torch applied products.

Hot Work Area- The area which is exposed to sparks, hot slag, radiant or convection heat as a result of hot work.

2. Hot Work Permits

Hot work permits are required for all University personnel engaged in hot work within the scope of their work or duties on university property.  The University Safety Office issues Hot Work Permits to those persons who have received training regarding the university policy for hot work. 

3. Fire Watch

A fire watch shall be provided during hot work activities and shall continue for a minimum of 60 minutes after the conclusion of the work.  Fire watch shall include the entire work area. Additional personnel shall be assigned if the exposure to hot work involves openings where hot slag or sparks can pass through to unprotected areas.  Individuals designated to fire watch duties shall have fire-extinguishing equipment readily available and shall be trained in the use of such equipment.  Individuals assigned shall be responsible for extinguishing spot fires and promptly communicating an alarm.

4. Hot Work Area

Hot Work shall not be performed in areas where flammable liquids or vapors, dust, lint, or combustible storage is at risk of ignition from spark or heat.  In areas that contain combustible materials appropriate shielding shall be provided to prevent sparks or heat from igniting combustibles or the materials shall be removed from the area.  Openings or cracks in walls, floors, ducts, or shafts within the hot work area shall be covered to prevent the passage of smoke, sparks or debris from work in progress.  Fire resistant guards or curtains should be utilized for this purpose. Floors shall be kept clean within the hot work area.

5.Fire Protection

If sprinklers are installed in area of work confirm that they are in service.  A fire extinguisher with a minimum of 2-A, 20 b;c rating shall be provided at the hot work site and located within 30 feet of work being performed.

6.Signage

Visible hazard identification shall be provided at or near the hot work area to alert or warn others of the hazard. For example:

CAUTION: Hot Work In Process --- STAY CLEAR

 7. Hot Work Checklist

1. The hot work site is cleared of combustible materials or combustibles are    adequately protected.
2. Exposed construction is of noncombustible materials or combustibles are protected.
3. Openings are protected.
4. Floors are kept clean.
5. There are no exposed combustible materials on the opposite side of partitions, walls or ceilings.
6. Fire watches are assigned, equipped and trained.
7. Fire extinguishers shall be verified as operable and available.
8. Sprinkler protection is in service. (if applicable)
9. Equipment is in good condition and has been inspected for defects.

8. Fixed Hot Work Areas

BYU-IDAHO has designated hot work areas which meet regulatory requirements.  These areas are, Physical Plant Mechanical Shop, Physical Plant Vehicle Maintenance and Austin Welding Lab.