Hot Work Permit-to-Work Marine Vessel Checklist

This hot work permit-to-work checklist for marine vessels ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter II-2 (Hot Work Requirements on Ships), ISM Code Section 7 (Shipboard Operations), OCIMF SIRE requirements for hot work authorization, and company Permit-to-Work system. Hot work fires and explosions are among the most serious maritime safety incidents — contributing to vessel total losses annually.

  • Industry: Maritime
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Role: Ship Safety Officer / Chief Officer
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: SOLAS Chapter II-2 Hot Work Requirements, ISM Code Section 7 Shipboard Operations PTW, OCIMF SIRE Hot Work Authorization Requirements, NFPA 51B Standard Hot Work Operations, Company Permit-to-Work Safety Management Procedures

Permit Authorization

PTW issue and approval.

  • Hot Work Permit signed by authorized officer (Chief Officer or Master)?
  • Permit validity period clearly stated?
  • On tankers - terminal/OIM authorization obtained for hot work?
  • Classification society approval obtained if structurally significant?
  • All parties (welder, safety officer, standby) named on permit?

Gas Testing

Atmosphere testing before hot work.

  • Hydrocarbon gas test conducted in work area - below 1% LEL?
  • Adjacent spaces and compartments also tested?
  • Gas meter calibrated and within service date?
  • Continuous gas monitoring planned during hot work?
  • Re-test interval defined on permit (typically every 30 minutes)?

Fire Prevention Measures

Fire protection precautions.

  • All flammable materials removed or protected in work area?
  • Fire blankets placed to catch sparks and hot material?
  • Charged fire extinguisher immediately accessible at work site?
  • Dedicated fire watch person positioned during all hot work?
  • Post-work fire watch for minimum 30 minutes after hot work ends?

Isolations

Energy and fuel isolations.

  • Fuel and gas lines in area isolated, drained, and blanked?
  • Electrical equipment in hot work area isolated and locked out?
  • Fixed CO2 system for compartment isolated and tagged?
  • Bilge valves in work area closed to prevent spark travel?
  • Ventilation adequate to remove fumes during hot work?

Welder PPE and Equipment

Hot work PPE.

  • Proper welding shield / helmet worn?
  • Heat-resistant gloves and protective clothing worn?
  • Respiratory protection worn if toxic fumes possible?
  • Welding equipment inspected and cables free of damage?
  • Fall protection in place if working at height?

Permit Closure

Post hot work documentation.

  • Hot work completed and all equipment removed?
  • 30-minute post-work fire watch completed?
  • Work area inspected for fire or hot spots before closure?
  • Permit formally closed and signed off?
  • Hot Work Notes

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Why Use This Hot Work Permit-to-Work Marine Vessel Checklist?

This hot work permit-to-work marine vessel checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for ship safety officer / chief officer professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter II-2 Hot Work Requirements, ISM Code Section 7 Shipboard Operations PTW, OCIMF SIRE Hot Work Authorization Requirements, NFPA 51B Standard Hot Work Operations, Company Permit-to-Work Safety Management Procedures. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hot Work Permit-to-Work Marine Vessel Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Permit Authorization, Gas Testing, Fire Prevention Measures, Isolations, Welder PPE and Equipment, Permit Closure. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this Hot Work Permit-to-Work Marine Vessel Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Ship Safety Officer / Chief Officer professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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