Welding & Cutting Safety - Safety Inspection

Complete this checklist before any welding, cutting, or hot work. Fire watch must be designated.

  • Industry: Construction
  • Frequency: Each hot work operation
  • Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Role: Welder / Safety Officer
  • Total Items: 31
  • Compliance: OSHA 1926.350-354 Welding & Cutting, NFPA 51B Hot Work, AWS D1.1

Area Preparation

Prepare work area for hot work.

  • Combustibles removed or protected (35ft)?
  • Floor swept of debris and dust?
  • Floor openings/gaps covered?
  • Fire extinguisher within 25 feet?

Equipment Inspection

Inspect welding equipment.

  • Hoses free of damage and leaks?
  • Regulators and gauges functioning?
  • Welding cables in good condition?
  • Ground properly attached?

PPE & Ventilation

Verify PPE and ventilation.

  • Proper welding helmet/filter lens?
  • Fire-resistant clothing worn?
  • Adequate ventilation or respiratory protection?
  • Welding screens in place to protect others?

Pre-Inspection Setup & Documentation

Initial documentation and site preparation verification

  • Inspector Name
  • Inspection Date
  • Project Name / Job Number
  • Current Weather Conditions
  • Previous inspection findings reviewed?

Safety & Compliance Verification

Verify compliance with applicable OSHA regulations and site safety plan

  • Site safety plan posted and accessible?
  • All required permits current and displayed?
  • SDS/MSDS sheets available for all chemicals on site?
  • First aid supplies accessible and stocked?
  • Emergency contact information posted?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Verify all personnel have and are using appropriate PPE

  • Hard hats worn by all personnel?
  • Safety glasses/eye protection in use?
  • High-visibility vests worn where required?
  • Steel-toe/safety footwear worn?
  • PPE in good condition (no damage)?

Site Conditions & Housekeeping

General site conditions and housekeeping standards

  • Walkways and access routes clear of debris?
  • Adequate lighting in all work areas?
  • Trip hazards identified and addressed?
  • Waste properly contained and removed?

Related Construction Checklists

Related Safety Inspections Checklists

Browse More Checklists