The Importance of a Hot Works Permit and How Permit to Work Software Can Help

Hot work is a high-risk activity in construction and maintenance projects. Without proper risk management, it can lead to devastating consequences, including fires that result in significant financial losses. Over the past two years, hot work fires have caused over £250 million in damages, including building repairs, lost profits, and increased operational costs. Implementing a structured hot works permit system is essential to mitigate these risks. A well-managed permit ensures all safety measures are in place before work begins. Permit-to-work software supplied by Work Wallet can streamline this process, helping businesses improve safety, efficiency, and compliance.

What is Hot Work?

Hot work is any activity that generates heat, sparks, or flames, increasing the fire risk. Common examples include:

• Welding
• Soldering
• Torch cutting
• Grinding
• Hot riveting
• Heat-applied roofing work

Many of these activities are performed in high-risk areas, such as construction sites, industrial facilities, and maintenance projects. Without proper control, they can ignite flammable materials, leading to fires that spread rapidly.

The Risks of Hot Work

Statistics show that welding alone is responsible for around 1,000 accidents in the UK each year, leading to 300 serious injuries. Other hot work activities carry similar risks, particularly in areas with combustible materials.

Common high-risk areas include:

• Torch-applied roofing, especially when roof voids are present
• Plant rooms and mechanical spaces
• Areas where flammable liquids, gases, or dust are stored

Given these risks, an effective hot work permit process ensures safety.

The Role of a Hot Work Permit in Risk Management

A hot work permit is a formal safety document that authorises and controls hot work activities. It ensures that:

✅ Risks are adequately assessed before work begins

✅ Safety controls are implemented to prevent fires

✅ Workers acknowledge and follow all required precautions

✅ A structured approval process is in place to enhance accountability

Using permit-to-work software like Work Wallet simplifies this process by digitising permit creation, approvals, and tracking. Instead of relying on paperwork, teams can manage everything in one central platform, ensuring real-time visibility and compliance.

Implementing an Effective Hot Works Permit Programme

A structured hot work permit system should include the following key steps:

1️⃣ Risk Assessment & Site Inspection - A site-specific risk assessment must be completed before a permit is issued. Using permit-to-work software, businesses can document potential hazards, capture work area images, and ensure compliance with safety standards.

2️⃣ Permit Authorisation & Worker Acknowledgement – Hot work should only begin after an authorised person issues a permit. Workers must confirm that they understand the required precautions. A digital system streamlines this process, ensuring clear records and accountability.

3️⃣ Fire Safety Controls – Measures such as shielding flammable materials, using fire-resistant blankets, and ensuring the presence of fire extinguishers should be verified before work starts. The software can store predefined checklists to help teams stay compliant.

4️⃣ Fire Watch & Monitoring - A fire watch should be maintained throughout the job, including a post-work fire watch (typically 60 minutes). With digital permit-to-work software, workers can log fire watch activities and upload thermal imaging photos for verification.

5️⃣ Permit Close-Out & Reporting – Once the work is complete, the permit must be formally closed out by an authorised person. A digital system enables easy tracking and reporting of completed permits, improving audit trails and compliance records.

Enhancing Safety with Permit-to-Work Software

Work Wallet’s permit-to-work software takes the guesswork out of managing hot work permits. It provides a centralised digital platform where businesses can:

✔ Issue and approve permits in real-time

✔ Conduct risk assessments and attach site images

✔ Automate fire watch tracking and post-work monitoring

✔ Maintain detailed records for compliance and audits

By switching to a digital permit-to-work system, businesses reduce paperwork, improve safety oversight, and ensure full compliance with best practices.

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