A fire watch is a designated individual or team whose primary responsibility is to observe for and immediately extinguish any fires that may occur during hot work, such as welding or cutting. They must be familiar with the facility's layout and procedures for sounding an alarm in the event of a fire. Additionally, they must have fire-extinguishing equipment readily available and be well-trained in its use.
What are the Duties and Responsibilities of Fire Watch Personnel?
Fire watch guards are responsible for constantly patrolling areas where hot work is taking place, maintaining vigilance for potential fires. They must also be familiar with the facility's alarm system and have a means of notifying emergency services in the event of a fire. Additionally, they are responsible for having fire-extinguishing equipment readily available and being well-trained in its use.
Fire watchmen are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week in case of emergency. The main function of fire watch personnel is to sound the alarm if something has gone wrong so that firefighters can be sent in. They may try to control the fire, but their primary responsibility isn't to battle the flames; it's to notify experts so they can come and take care of it. Fire watchmen are not allowed to do anything else while on duty.
Fire Watch Responsibilities May Include:
Constantly patrolling area wheres “hot work” is being performed, maintaining vigilance of potential fires.
- It is also critical that a facility be equipped with fire alarms and a method to notify emergency services.
- You'll need the right fire-extinguishing equipment, as well as plenty of practice using it. Fire watches are also responsible for putting out fires that may occur.
- Maintaining the conditions and requirements stated on the safety permit.
- Inspecting the entire workspace before, during, and after each shift for potential flammable vapors or liquids release
- Prepare to use fire extinguishers, hydrants, fixed monitors, and hose carts as needed.
Who is Required to Have a Fire Watch?
OSHA mandates the presence of both hole and fire watch guards in the Code of Federal Regulations. This means that any area where hot work is taking place must have someone designated as a fire watch.
What Happens if a Fire Occurs?
If a fire occurs, fire watch personnel are responsible for sounding the alarm and notifying emergency services. They must also take whatever steps are necessary to extinguish the fire. This may include using fire-extinguishing equipment or calling for help from other employees or emergency responders.
It is important for employers to understand the duties and responsibilities of fire watch personnel in order to ensure the safety of their employees. By providing adequate training and equipment, employers can help ensure that fires are quickly extinguished should they occur.
What are the penalties for not having a fire watch in place during hot work?
It is important to have a designated fire watch whenever hot work is taking place, as failing to do so can result in significant penalties. In some cases, fires that occur as a result of negligence may lead to criminal charges. Additionally, facilities may face hefty fines from safety regulators for not having a fire watch in place.
Conclusion
A fire watch is a designated individual or team whose primary responsibility is to extinguish any fires that may occur during hot work, such as welding or cutting. They must be familiar with the facility's layout and procedures for sounding an alarm in the event of a fire. Additionally, they must have fire-extinguishing equipment readily available and be well-trained in its use.
Fire watch personnel are responsible for constantly patrolling areas where hot work is taking place, maintaining vigilance for potential fires. They must also be familiar with the facility's alarm system and have a means of notifying emergency services in the event of a fire. Additionally, they are responsible for having fire-extinguishing equipment readily available and being well-trained in its use. Always make sure that you hire professionals and ask for their id cards. This will ensure that you are getting the best possible service.
