Scout's Toolbox Talks

When hot work is being performed, a dedicated fire watch must be assigned. This role isn’t optional—it’s a critical safeguard for catching fires before they grow out of control.

Why It Matters:

Many jobsite fires don’t start during the work—they start after sparks have settled into hidden combustible materials. A fire watch stays alert during and after the work, ready to respond.

Key Points:

• A fire watch must be posted during all hot work, unless it’s in a fire-resistant, designated hot work area.
• Fire watches must:
  • Remain in the area for at least 30 minutes after work ends
  • Have a clear view of the work zone
  • Be trained in extinguisher use
  • Know how to sound the alarm and call emergency services
• Fire watches must never be distracted or leave the area unattended.
• Fire extinguishers and access to an emergency phone/radio must be nearby.

✅ Fire watch = last line of defense.

Ask the Crew:

• Who’s our fire watch today?
• Do they know how to respond if something sparks up?

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