Who must be present before starting work after obtaining a HOT WORK permit?

The necessity of having a fire watch present before beginning work after obtaining a HOT WORK permit is critical due to the inherent risks associated with hot work operations, such as welding, cutting, or grinding. The fire watch is responsible for monitoring the area for any signs of fire or smoldering materials and has the authority to take action if a fire hazard is detected. This role is essential for ensuring the safety of workers and preventing fire incidents during operations that generate heat or sparks.

While the presence of an operations manager, safety officer, or quality control personnel may be important for overall project management, safety compliance, or ensuring quality standards, it is the fire watch's role that is specifically tied to the immediate risks posed by hot work activities. The fire watch serves as a dedicated safety measure directly addressing the potential fire hazards that are present during such tasks, making their presence mandatory before work commences under the HOT WORK permit.