Hot Works
By the Riskora Editorial Team · Last reviewed
Hot works are any activity that produces heat, sparks or open flame — welding, grinding, cutting, brazing, soldering, blowtorch use and bitumen heating.
Hot works are the leading cause of fires on UK construction sites. The Fire Protection Association and most insurers require a hot works permit, a controlled hot works zone, fire-resistant covers for nearby combustibles, suitable extinguishers and a fire watch during and for at least one hour after the work.
Hot works carried out under refurbishment contracts in occupied buildings are particularly high-risk because of hidden voids, dust accumulation and shared services.
If your insurer issues a hot works permit, treat it as the controlling document. RAMS sits underneath; the permit governs whether the work proceeds today.
Why it matters
An unattended cut-off saw or welder 5 minutes after the work has stopped is a classic hot works fire scenario. Fire watch is not optional — it is the control.