The fire watch should be stationed near the work area, with the ability to detect and prevent any stray sparks, slag, or heat sources from starting a fire. Because they will tell workers in the near vicinity of a fire and alert emergency fire professionals if a fire starts to go out of control, need a fire watch should be regarded a key aspect of the fire warning system. A fire watch’s main responsibilities include. During a fire watch, make sure that firefighting equipment is readily available and ready to use. When feasible, keep the immediate area around the hot work clear of combustible materials within a 35-foot radius. Keep an eye out for fires and sparks, slag, or other heat sources that could cause a fire. Communicate with employees and alert them if certain tasks pose an elevated danger of fire.
Any tiny or incipient fires should be put out right away
Stay in the area during the job and for at least 30 minutes after the work is completed to ensure that there are no shouldering materials in any areas where hot work was done. Workers assigned to fire watch duty must have fire-extinguishing equipment on hand for the many types of fires they may encounter. If combustible metals, electricity, or oils or grease are present in the work area, the fire extinguisher class must match the type of fire. The Fire Watch should be taught how to use fire extinguishing equipment. Fire watchers should always be aware of the work environment, exit routes, and any changes or obstructions that could obstruct a safe evacuation. The fire watch should be vigilant in looking for hidden fire hazards, particularly in storage places, crawl spaces, and hidden spots where work could have thrown sparks or slag.
Designated fire watchers must be aware of the location
The manual fire alarm stations and be familiar with the necessary procedures for responding to fires and sounding alarms. Fire watch staff must be familiar enough with the job site, structure, and location to be able to give accurate directions and information to the fire department in the event of a fire. Prior to beginning the hot work, fire watch personnel should inspect the task site to ensure that all flammable materials have been removed, covered, or protected by fire-safe materials. When hot activity such as welding, cutting, or heating is done on or near walls, upper-level floors, ceilings, or other building separators, a fire watch may be required on the opposite side of the partition because sparks or heat transfer could produce a fire hazard.
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Any emergency switches, electrical shut-off mechanisms, and main power cut-offs, as well as shut-off points for gas, oil, process water, and any other areas that could be hazardous to employees or provide fuel to a possible fire, should be known to the fire watch. The fire watch should only attempt to put out a fire if it is within their training and fire-fighting equipment’s capabilities. The membership is incredibly affordable, and it never goes up in price, no matter how many employees you have or how many excellent safety topics you use. Hundreds of safety themes are included in your membership that you may use in your safety meetings, toolbox talks, and safety moments. Take a look at our website to find out more about what a subscription entails. To discover more, simply click the link below.
What is the Purpose of a Fire Watch?
If a fire breaks out, the fire watch responds quickly. They are the ones who are in charge of raising the alarm. They’ll stick to protocol while also attempting to put out the fire. That alert is, in fact, their principal responsibility. Firefighters should arrive as quickly as possible. As a result, the alarm is crucial. Buildings, machinery, and people can all be saved with the intervention of professionals on the scene.
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Procedures for Fire Watch
You’ll want to stick to approved fire safety standards. Examine all codes thoroughly for details once again. Here’s a quick rundown. All hot work in your facility should be monitored. Beyond that, keep an eye out for fire hazards across the workplace. If a fire hazard is discovered without a fire watch, shut down all operations. Carefully read your safety permit. Make certain that all conditions and standards are met. Make sure combustible materials don’t come into contact with the ignition sources. In the event of a fire, activate the fire alarm right away. If at all possible, put out the fire. You may have a separate emergency alarm number in some instances.