Work involving flames, grinders, welding, or other spark sources near a natural gas installation is considered hot work and requires strict control before commencement.
Permit to Work
The work must be performed under a work permit that specifies the area, duration, protective measures, isolations, and responsible personnel.
Gas-free testing
Before work begins, the atmosphere must be tested using a suitable and calibrated instrument. The measurement must accurately represent the work site and not just a distant location.
Isolation of gas sources
Lines that could feed the area must be isolated according to the approved procedure. Where required, LOTO must be applied and isolation must be confirmed.
Continuous monitoring
Some tasks require continuous or repeated atmospheric monitoring. A safe result before starting does not guarantee that conditions will not change.
Fire protection
Suitable fire extinguishing equipment must be available, and the area must be checked after work completion for any hot spots or hidden ignition.
Core principle
Hot work does not begin simply because "the line is closed." It only begins when the required checks have been completed and the measures of the work permit have been implemented.
