Cutting Operations Hot Work Audit

Oxy-fuel cutting hot work audit covering hose condition, flashback arrestors, flame settings, and fire watch controls.

Job Authorization and Hot Work Planning

• Hot work permit is approved and current for this task/location
  Permit is posted or available at the worksite and matches the exact location, date, and scope of oxy-fuel cutting.
• Work area hazard assessment completed before cutting
  Assessment addresses combustibles, ignition sources, ventilation, nearby openings, and adjacent operations.
• Competent person or authorized supervisor identified for the hot work
  A responsible person is assigned to verify controls, stop work if conditions change, and coordinate fire watch coverage.
• Combustible materials removed or protected within the hot work zone
  Combustibles are cleared, shielded, or covered with fire-resistant protection to prevent ignition from sparks or slag.
• Ventilation is adequate for cutting fumes and gas accumulation
  Air movement prevents accumulation of fuel gas, oxygen enrichment, or cutting fumes in the work area.

Equipment Condition and Gas Delivery System

• Fuel gas and oxygen hoses are free of cuts, burns, abrasions, and kinks
  Hoses show no visible damage, soft spots, leaks, taped repairs, or excessive wear along the full length.
• Hose connections are secure and properly clamped or fitted
  Connections at cylinders, regulators, manifolds, and torch handles are tight and appropriate for the system in use.
• Flashback arrestors are installed at the correct locations and oriented properly
  Arrestors are present on the fuel and oxygen lines as required by site procedure and manufacturer guidance, with flow direction correct.
• Regulators, gauges, and torch valves are in serviceable condition
  No cracked lenses, damaged gauges, leaking fittings, or sticking valves are observed during pre-use inspection.
• Cylinder caps, securing method, and storage/positioning are acceptable
  Cylinders are secured upright, protected from impact, and separated from heat and ignition sources as required.

Torch Setup, Leak Check, and Flame Settings

• System leak check completed before ignition
  All connections were checked for leaks using an approved method before lighting the torch.
• Torch flame is adjusted to the correct cutting setting
  Flame is stable and appropriate for the material and cutting operation, with no excessive soot, popping, or backfiring.
• Torch tip is correct for the material thickness and in good condition
  Tip size matches the job and shows no clogging, distortion, or damage that could affect flame stability.
• Ignition and shutdown sequence follows site procedure
  Torch is lit, adjusted, and shut down in the correct order without unsafe handling or uncontrolled gas release.

Fire Protection and Fire Watch Controls

• Suitable fire extinguisher is immediately available at the work location
  Extinguisher is the correct type, charged, accessible, and within reach of the fire watch or operator.
• Fire watch is assigned and positioned with an unobstructed view of the hot work area
  Fire watch can observe sparks, slag, and hidden ignition points and is not assigned conflicting duties.
• Fire watch duration meets site requirement after cutting stops
  Post-work monitoring duration is documented and meets or exceeds the site standard; if no stricter requirement applies, OSHA minimum is at least 30 minutes and NFPA 51B may require longer based on hazard conditions.
• Adjacent openings, floors, and concealed spaces are protected from sparks
  Openings, cracks, ducts, and penetrations are covered or monitored to prevent fire spread to hidden spaces.
• Post-work area inspection completed after hot work ended
  Area was checked for smoldering materials, hot slag, and delayed ignition sources before release.

PPE, Housekeeping, and Closeout

• Operator PPE is appropriate for oxy-fuel cutting
  Eye protection, face protection, gloves, clothing, and footwear are suitable for the task and in good condition.
• Work area is left free of slag, scrap, and ignition hazards
  Cutting debris, hot metal, and waste materials are removed or controlled before the area is released.
• Deficiencies and corrective actions documented and communicated
  Any non-conformance, immediate corrective action, and responsible party are recorded before closeout.