Scout's Toolbox Talks

When hot work is in progress, having a fire watch isn’t just a good idea — it’s an OSHA requirement. Their job is to be the eyes on the hazard the entire time, and even after the work stops.

Why It Matters:

Fires don’t always start immediately. Sparks can smolder in hidden areas for hours. A trained, dedicated fire watch can stop a small flare-up from becoming a major incident — if they stay alert and know what to do.

Key Points:

• A fire watch must be physically present and focused during all hot work activities.
• They must stay for at least 30 minutes after the hot work ends (longer if site policy requires).
• Their only job is to monitor for fire — they should not be doing other tasks.
• They must have access to a charged, appropriate fire extinguisher and know how to use it.
• Fire watches must be trained to sound the alarm and initiate emergency procedures if fire breaks out.

✅ A distracted fire watch is as dangerous as no fire watch at all.

Ask the Crew:

• Who’s assigned fire watch duties today?
• Do they know the required stand-by time after hot work ends?

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