United States High-risk taskVersion 1Updated September 25, 2026

Hot work permit checklist

Free hot work permit checklist from OSHA 29 CFR 1910.252(a) and 1926.352: stop conditions, 35 ft clearance, fire watch and close-out. Fill in or print.

How often: Before each hot work job outside an area designed for welding and cutting. How long a permit stays valid is set by your organization.

Sections
6
Checks
42
Critical
10
Sources
53

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1

Exact location of the hot work (building, floor, area) *

2

Type of hot work *

3

Work setting *

4

Name of the person doing the hot work *

5

Contractor company, if any

6

Permit valid from *

7

Permit valid until *

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Frequently asked questions

Does OSHA require a written hot work permit?

In general industry, the authorizing person must inspect the area and designate the precautions; the rule says this is preferably done in the form of a written permit [16]. A written permit such as this one also leaves a record of what was checked.

When is a fire watch required for hot work?

In general industry: whenever more than a minor fire might develop [7], or when appreciable combustibles are within 35 feet (10.7 m) [8], combustibles farther away are easily ignited by sparks [9], wall or floor openings within 35 feet expose combustibles [10], or combustibles on the other side of a metal wall, ceiling or roof could be ignited by conduction or radiation [11]. In construction, additional personnel are assigned to guard against fire whenever normal fire prevention precautions are not sufficient [51].

How long does the fire watch stay after hot work ends?

At least half an hour after welding or cutting is completed in general industry [14]. In construction, the fire guard stays for a sufficient period after completion to ensure no possibility of fire exists [49].

How far away must combustibles be from hot work?

In general industry, at least 35 feet (10.7 m) where relocation is practicable [27]. Floors are swept clean of combustible material for the same radius [20]. In construction, movable fire hazards in the vicinity are taken to a safe place or otherwise protected [45], and where fire hazards cannot be removed, positive means confine the heat, sparks and slag [46].

Built from 53 official sources

Every check traces to the text it is based on. Read the purpose, how to use it, the rules behind it, what it does not cover and every source.

Guidance, not legal advice. It does not replace the law, the manufacturer's instructions or your organization's competent people, and completing it does not certify that work is safe.