Hot work poses a significant fire safety risk, and therefore special training is required to carry it out. A hot work certificate is compulsory for people carrying out hot work at temporary workplaces, such as construction sites or industrial plants. The hot work certificate ensures that workers are aware of the risks associated with hot work and know how to prevent fires effectively.
The certificate is valid for five years, and to obtain it, you must successfully complete a 7-hour hot work certificate training course, which consists of a theory module undertaken via online training, as well as practical fire-fighting exercises and a final examination carried out as part of the livetraining involving practical fire-extinguishing exercises and a final exam.
In what situations is a hot-work permit required?
A hot work permit is compulsory for anyone carrying out temporary hot work. Temporary hot work refers to tasks involving the use of open flames, spark-producing tools or other methods posing a fire hazard in premises not permanently designed for hot work.
A hot work permit is required, for example, for the following types of work:
- Welding, flame cutting and gas brazing
- Using an angle grinder and metalworking that produces sparks
- Roofing and waterproofing work using bitumen
- Other work involving the use of open flames or high temperatures at temporary workplaces
In permanent hot-work areas, however, which are equipped with appropriate protective measures and fire safety systems, a hot-work permit is not always required, but compliance with safety regulations remains of the utmost importance.
Flexibility in education through a hybrid model
The hot work card training is delivered using a hybrid model that combines the best aspects of online and face-to-face training. This allows for more flexible learning, whilst ensuring that practical skills and fire safety knowledge are thoroughly assessed.
Structure of the course:
- Theory module (distance learning)
- To be completed online independently or via distance learning under the guidance of a trainer
- Covers safety regulations for hot work, risk assessment and prevention
- Includes learning activities and preparation for the course exam
- Fire-fighting drill and course exam (face-to-face training)
- Organised as an on-site training course, during which participants practise using the correct fire-fighting equipment
- The course exam ensures that participants have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills
- Upon successful completion, participants will receive a hot work certificate, which is valid for 5 years
The employer’s responsibility and the importance of the hot work permit
Under the law, employers must ensure that their employees have the necessary training for hot work. A hot work certificate is not merely a formality; it helps to prevent accidents and improve fire safety on site.
Why should employers ensure that their staff complete hot work card training?
- Reduces the risk of fire – Accidents involving hot work can cause significant damage, but trained staff know how to work safely.
- Complies with legal requirements – The health and safety authorities require that anyone carrying out hot work must be trained.
- Improves safety on site – Well-trained staff know how to protect themselves and the environment when carrying out hot work.
- Avoiding financial risks – Damage caused by hot work can lead to substantial compensation claims and liability issues.
Renewing a hot work permit – When and how is it done?
As the hot work certificate is valid for five years, it must be renewed before it expires. Renewal requires completing the training again, which is important as safety regulations and recommendations may change over the years.
The refresher course covers the same key topics as the first course:
- Risks and safety practices associated with hot work
- The correct use of fire-fighting equipment
- Protective measures and safety instructions for temporary hot-work sites
Refresher training is delivered using the same hybrid model, with the theoretical part taking place via distance learning and the practical part via live training.
Tip: Keep an eye on your certificate’s expiry date and book your refresher training in advance so that you can continue working without any interruptions!
When is a hot-work certificate required?
- A hot work permit is compulsory for anyone carrying out hot work at temporary work sites, such as construction sites, in industry, or in roofing and waterproofing work.
- The hot work card training course lasts 7 hours and is delivered using a hybrid model: the theory section is online, whilst the fire-extinguishing exercise and the course exam take place as face-to-face sessions.
- The card is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before it expires.
- It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that employees carrying out hot work are trained and qualified.
Ensure a safe working environment and complete your hot work certificate training in good time – check the training schedules and sign up today!
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