Hot work
Hot work describes any process that utilizes an open flame, generates sparks, heat, smoke or dust and can be a source of ignition for nearby flammable materials or that may unnecessarily cause a fire alarm in university buildings.
Hot work includes welding, soldering, cutting, brazing, grinding and drilling metal, heating with a torch, the use of candles, smoke-producing machines, or plate warmers and cooking in locations without appropriate ventilation.
To conduct hot work at Concordia, you must:
- Submit the fire prevention form at least 3 working days prior to the work or activity.
- Follow the mandatory hot work safety precautions.
- Implement any additional precautions or procedures imposed by University fire prevention personnel.
Important: Any person conducting these activities that cause a fire alarm can expose the person conducting the activity to a municipal fine of up to $2700.00. University fire prevention personnel are authorized to inspect the work site and, if necessary, stop all activity if the established requirements have not been adhered to or if any other safety or fire risk is identified.
Before you start your hot work
Once you have obtained authorization to conduct hot work by filling out the fire prevention form, follow these steps the day of your work:
1. Advise the nearest building Protection and Prevention desk prior to commencing the work or call 514-848-3717
2. Establish a 11 meters / 35 foot safety zone and restrict its access to all non-essential personnel.
3. Ensure that the safety zone is free of any combustible materials, liquids, vapor and free of dust or other particles that may create a risk of fire or explosion.
4. Ensure that the established equipment and precautions are present and properly utilized.
5. Upon completion of the hot work, call Campus Safety and Prevention Services at 514-848-3717.
6. Following completion of the hot work, a constant surveillance of the work area must be maintained, for 60 minutes.
7. A follow-up inspection of the work area must be conducted 4 hours after completion of the hot work to ensure that there are no residual heat sources, embers or possibility of combustion.
8. Upon completion of the final inspection, notify Campus Safety and Prevention Services by calling 514-848-3717.
Concordia fire prevention and safety personnel may impose supplemental safety requirements based on the nature and location of the work being conducted. Failure to implement the established precautions can result in the work being immediately halted and/or cancelled.
Any cost associated with special requirements, equipment and/or university charges related to the hot work are the responsibility of the person conducting/coordinating the hot work.
Hot work and maintenance will often result in special measure being imposed or by a fire alarm system being by-passed.
The interruption, bypass or closure, in part or in full, of any fire alarm or sprinkler system must only be undertaken by authorized University personnel or authorized external fire alarm and/or sprinkler service providers. The online, fire prevention form must be completed at least 2 working days prior to the scheduled interruption of fire alarm and/or sprinkler systems.
Any sprinkler valves that are closed during repairs or for maintenance must be identified with the designated "fire protection out of service" warning sign. Warning signs are available at the nearest Protection and Prevention desk or by calling 514-848-3717.
University fire prevention personnel may impose a fire watch/monitor or other precautions judged to be necessary for the duration of the fire protection systems interruption.
Any cost associated with special requirements, precautions or equipment and/or university charges related to the interruption of fire protection systems are the responsibility of the person responsible for coordinating the work.
Any unauthorized person who tampers with fire alarm or sprinkler systems will be subject to severe internal consequences and potentially criminal charges.
Watch the hot work safety precautions video
