Flammable Hot Work: Why Certification Is Not Only A Requirement, But Your Safety
In any workplace where sparks fly, flames burn or heat develops, there is an inherent risk. Welding, cutting, soldering, roofing with an open flame - all are classified as 'flammable hot work' and can quickly turn a routine task into a disaster. But did you know that over 60% of all fires in Sweden caused by hot work are carried out by people without adequate qualifications? This underlines the importance of proper knowledge and certification, not only to meet legal requirements, but to protect life, property and the future of your business.
What is "Flammable Hot Work" and why is it so risky?
The term 'Flammable Hot Work' is broader than many people think. It includes any type of work that generates heat or sparks that can cause a fire. Examples include:
Welding and cutting
Soldering and thawing
Grinding with angle grinders
Hot air gun work on combustible materials
Roofing with LPG torches
The risk is that the heat generated can ignite nearby combustible materials - often in places you don't think about, such as walls, floors or ventilation systems. A small spark can lie smouldering for a long time before a full-scale fire breaks out, hours after the work has been completed.
Who is responsible and what does the law say?
In Sweden, hot work is regulated by the insurance companies' safety regulations, which in practice are the industry standard and a requirement for the vast majority of insurance policies.
These regulations require that:
The employer/client ensures that the work is carried out safely and that the person carrying out the work has the right skills.
The authorizer (often a manager or supervisor) has undergone training and issues a written authorization before the work starts.The person carrying out the hot work is certified and follows the safety rules.
The fire watch (if necessary) is trained and present to be able to intervene quickly in the event of a fire incident.However, the ultimate responsibility always rests with the client of the work. Without proper certification, companies may risk losing their insurance in the event of a fire, with devastating financial consequences.
Completing a flammable hot work certification course doesn't just put a piece of paper in your hand - it gives you the crucial knowledge to:Identify risks: Understand what materials and circumstances pose a fire risk.
Plan and prepare: Know how to secure a workplace before, during and after work.
Act correctly: Know how to handle fire extinguishing equipment and how to act in the event of an incident.
Comply with regulations: Ensure that work is carried out in accordance with current regulations and thus protect your company.
Invest in Safety with the Knowledge Office's Flammable Hot Work Training
At the Knowledge Office, we offer a comprehensive and practical training in flammable hot work, adapted for both those who will perform the work, act as a fire guard or be a licensor.
Our experienced instructors will guide you through theory and practice, so you feel confident and competent to handle these hazardous tasks.
Course content includes:
Legislation and regulations
Fire knowledge and flammable substances
Risk assessment and planning
Fire extinguishing equipment and its use
Practical exercises
Working with hot work is a necessary part of many industries. But it must be done with respect for the risks and with the right knowledge. Certifying you and your team not only ensures that you meet legal and insurance requirements, but above all that you contribute to a safer working environment for everyone.
Contact the Knowledge Office today to book your place on the next course and give yourself the tools to work safely and responsibly! Read more about and book our Flammable Hot Work training here: