This Code of Practice will apply to University employees and to contractors who carry out 'hot work' tasks on Site.
For the purposes of this Code, 'hot work' is classed as temporary operations capable of providing a source of ignition, for example welding, cutting, burning, or heating. It does not include routine laboratory or workshop operations in designated areas.
In addition to any injuries, fires caused by 'hot work' can have a significant adverse effect on the University's operations. This can include loss of teaching and research facilities and ultimately, loss of a University building. Implementation of this Code will minimise the risk of these adverse effects and help to ensure the continuous running of the University.
Violation of this Code's requirements may lead to the termination of the work and disciplinary action taken against employees or removal from Site of contractors.
General arrangements for Hot Work
If there is a practical method to carry out a task without involving 'hot work', this method will be used.
Where specific fire fighting equipment is included in the precautions for the work, this equipment will be provided by the University unless otherwise agreed.
University personnel engaging contractors to carry out hot work must inform the Campus Estates & Facilities Management (E&FM) office before commencement of the work.
All equipment used for hot work must be in good order and fit for the intended purpose. Employees and contractors must not use any equipment that is below standard or in need of repair. Any equipment found to be unsafe must be immediately withdrawn from service and disposed of or repaired.
A 'Hot Work Permit' is required for any temporary hot work operation involving open flame or producing heat and/or sparks. This includes but is not limited to welding (gas or electric arc), cutting (gas or electric arc), brazing and grinding. The requirement for a permit applies equally to University employees and to contractors. For details of arrangements, see the 'Hot Work Permit' section below.
If hot work is subject to a 'hot work permit', the area where the work is to be carried out will be examined by an E&FM representative before commencement of the work to ensure arrangements are in place to minimise the risk of fire.
If unsafe conditions are noted during the work, all hot work will cease until the conditions are made safe.
If an employee or contractor is discovered performing any hot work other than in designated areas without obtaining a permit, the work will be stopped until a permit is obtained.
Any contractors' hot work equipment left on the premises overnight or other periods where the contractor is not on Site must be properly secured in an area designated by the Campus E&FM Manager or deputy.
Hot Work Permits
If a 'Hot Work Permit' is required, this will be issued by a person authorised by the University of Greenwich for this purpose. The following personnel are designated as a 'University of Greenwich Authorised Person' for the purpose of issuing a 'Hot Work Permit':
- Campus Estates & Facilities Managers
- Deputy Campus Estates & Facilities Managers
- Maintenance Technician Supervisors
The permit will be valid for a maximum of twelve hours. After this period a further permit must be obtained before continuing with the work.
Fire watcher attendance will cover all work breaks, monitor the area for sixty minutes after completion of the work and any further regular fire watch inspections as necessary.
See also: Hot Work Guidance and Hot Work Permit
Original - October 2007
Review - January 2013
Updated - April 2015