Fire Watch
When, Why & How
A complete guide to fire watch requirements, hot work safety, and compliance documentation
What Is a Fire Watch?
A fire watch is a dedicated individual or team assigned to monitor an area for fire hazards when normal fire protection systems are impaired or when hot work is being performed. The fire watch person must be trained, equipped with a fire extinguisher, and have no other duties during the watch period.
Fire watch is not optional — it is mandated by NFPA 101 §9.7.6, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.252(a)(2)(iii) for hot work, and NFPA 51B (Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting, and Other Hot Work). In healthcare facilities, CMS and The Joint Commission require fire watch as part of Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSM) when sprinkler or fire alarm systems are taken out of service NFPA 101, §9.7.6.
When Is Fire Watch Required?
Hot Work Permit Process
Before any hot work begins, a Hot Work Permit must be issued. This is required by OSHA and reinforced by NFPA 51B. The permit documents that all precautions have been taken NFPA 51B, §8.1.
Pre-Work Inspection
Clear combustibles within 35 feet. Protect what cannot be moved with fire-resistant covers.
Issue Hot Work Permit
Authorized person inspects area and signs permit. Valid for one shift or specific time period.
Assign Fire Watch
Trained person with extinguisher stationed at work area. No other duties during watch.
Post-Work Monitoring
Fire watch continues minimum 30 minutes after hot work completion. 60 minutes recommended by NFPA 51B.
Fire Watch Log Form
Every fire watch must be documented. Below is a standard fire watch log form template. A fire watch log should be maintained for every shift and retained per your facility's record-keeping policy.
▶ Watch on YouTube
See fire watch procedures explained on What The Fire Code — including hot work safety, ILSM during construction, and real-world scenarios.
Watch on YouTube →References
1. NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, §9.7.6 — Fire Watch Requirements.
2. NFPA 51B: Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting, and Other Hot Work.
3. NFPA 25: ITM of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, §15.5 — Impairment Procedures.
4. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.252(a)(2)(iii) — Hot Work Fire Watch Requirements.
5. The Joint Commission: PE.02.06.05 — Interim Life Safety Measures.
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Discussion (2)
Great breakdown of the technical details. The NFPA 25 maintenance table is exactly what I needed for my ITM schedule.
Really clear explanation. Would love to see a companion video walkthrough of the inspection process.