I can see this idea and certification requirement law being adopted by other cities and states in the US in the near future.
“Once the harm has been done, even a fool understands it.” Boston’s Deputy Fire Chief Jack Dempsey quotes Homer, to sum up, the need that drove the implementation of Boston’s Hot Work Certification Program.
Like much Greek literature, the Hot Work Program was borne from tragedy: the loss of two Boston Firefighters in a blaze sparked by unpermitted and careless hot work.
Boston Hot Work Safety Program
The Boston Hot Work Safety Certificate Program was created by NFPA in cooperation with the City of Boston to assist in advancing safety. It is designed to help those in various disciplines in the construction industry develop awareness and understanding of both dangers and safety procedures that can help promote safety on the work site where hot work occurs.
The City of Boston requires that in order to receive a permit to do hot work you will need to obtain a Hot Work Safety Certificate and ensure that all persons engaged in hot work operations on the work site also hold a Hot Work Safety Certificate. This certificate is obtained by taking the Hot Work training class and successfully completing an assessment of your learning.
NEW! Read the latest update from the City of Boston on the NFPA Hot Work Safety Certificate program.
What is Hot Work?
The definition of “hot work” per the amended Boston Fire Prevention Code includes Welding and allied processes; Heat-treating; Grinding; Thawing pipes; Powder-driven fasteners; Hot Riveting; Torch-applied roofing; and any similar applications producing or using sparks, flame or heat.
Why do I have to attend a Hot Work Safety Certificate Program training? When was the Hot Work Safety Certificate Program created?
In June 2016, the Boston City Council passed an ordinance amending the Boston Fire Prevention Code requiring that effective January 1, 2017, all persons engaged in hot work operations must obtain a Hot Work Safety Certificate.
Why was this requirement created?
The City of Boston passed the ordinance in response to the tragic March 2014 fire in Boston’s Back Bay area that took the lives of two firefighters and that was subsequently identified by investigators as being started by hot work operations in a nearby building.
Who conducts the training classes?
Training classes for the Hot Work Safety Certificate Program are conducted by instructors who have been trained by NFPA.
What is the training program like?
The Boston Hot Work Safety Certificate Program provides in-person training to meet these learning objectives:
- Describe the various types of hot work
- Identify common fuel sources and ignition sources
- Cite relevant standards, regulations, and ordinances that are applicable to hot work
- Define the duties and responsibilities of each person on the hot work team
- Read and understand a hot work permit.
How do I sign up for a Hot Work Safety Certificate Program training class?
For organized labor
Hot Work Safety Certificate Program classes will be offered at your Local. Please contact your Local Administrator for more information. Your Local Administrator, and not NFPA, will be determining the time and place for these training sessions.
For all others
Preregistration is required, and classes are subject to cancellation. Click here if you are doing work in Boston that would include Hot Work of any kind so that you can get the required training.
For Hot Work Training Materials, DVD’s, Online Training and more for your workplace, click on the link below for great safety training resources at excellent prices from our friends at Atlantic Training!
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