SSOW-20: Hot Works — Fire Precautions & Bitumen Burner
Skill level: 1
SSOW
Scope
This Safe System of Work applies to all operatives carrying out hot works, including use of bitumen boilers, gas torches, soldering irons, grinders, or welding equipment.
The purpose is to prevent fire, burns, explosions, and property damage during tasks that involve open flames, heat, or sparks.
1. Hazards
Ignition of nearby combustible materials (timber, paint, dust, leaves, insulation, fuel).
Explosion from gas leaks or pressure build-up.
Burns from hot bitumen, metal, or flame contact.
Fumes and vapours causing respiratory irritation.
Inadequate ventilation causing buildup of flammable gases.
Delayed ignition after completion of work (smouldering embers).
Trip hazards from hoses, gas bottles, and tools.
2. Controls & Precautions
🔥 Before Work Begins
Complete a Hot Works Permit (if on client site).
Ensure fire extinguishers (CO₂ + water or foam) are available and within reach.
Inspect gas hoses, regulators, and burners for wear, cracks, or leaks — replace damaged parts immediately.
Keep a fire bucket or sand nearby as secondary control.
Ensure the work area is clear of combustible materials for at least 5 metres radius (or shield with non-combustible blankets).
Confirm adequate ventilation — never use gas burners in confined or enclosed spaces.
Check weather conditions — avoid high wind use outdoors which may blow flames or sparks.
Verify that all cylinders are stored upright, secured, and away from heat sources.
Designate a fire watch person if more than one operative is present.
🔧 During Work
Light burners safely using an igniter, never a lighter or match.
Keep bitumen boilers attended at all times when lit.
Never overfill bitumen boiler; allow expansion room.
Do not leave hoses under tension or kinked; position to avoid damage and tripping.
Keep gas cylinders upright and at least 1 m from burner.
Avoid directing flame near gas hoses, valves, or flammable materials.
Wear full PPE (see below).
Stop immediately if you smell gas or see flame irregularities — isolate gas at bottle valve.
🧯 After Work
Extinguish burner fully and close cylinder valve.
Allow burner and bitumen to cool fully before moving or storing.
Inspect area for signs of smouldering or heat — continue fire watch for at least 60 minutes after completion.
Return fire extinguishers to their designated place and sign off permit (if used).
Store gas cylinders in designated ventilated area, clearly labelled and secured.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Flame-resistant glovesEN 407Protect hands from heat and splashes
Heat-resistant overalls or long sleevesEN ISO 11612Protect from flame and bitumen
Safety boots (non-melt soles)EN ISO 20345Protect feet from heat and impact
Eye protection / face shieldEN 166Protect from sparks and splashes
Respirator (if in enclosed space)EN 149 FFP2Protect from fumes and vapours
Hard hatEN 397General site safety
Hi-vis vestEN 20471Site visibility
4. Emergency Procedures
In case of fire:
Raise alarm immediately and call 999.
Only tackle fire if safe using nearest extinguisher.
Evacuate area, accounting for all personnel.For burns:
Cool affected area with clean, cold running water for at least 10 minutes.
Do not remove bitumen adhering to skin — seek medical help.
Record incident and report to supervisor.
5. Training & Supervision
Only trained and authorised operatives may carry out hot works.
Training must include:
Gas safety and handling.
Fire extinguisher use.
PPE and emergency procedures.Supervisors must verify equipment condition and monitor safe practices.
7. Documentation
Hot Works Permit (if required).
Pre-Start Checklist for burners and gas cylinders.
Fire Watch Log (time and sign-off).
SSOW-20 reference in Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS).
6. Environmental Considerations
Prevent bitumen or oil spillages from reaching drains or soil.
Collect and dispose of waste material responsibly.
Avoid smoke emission near occupied areas.