During waterproofing hot works on the roof of a non-Arabtec project, a fire started when the flame of a welding torch ignited plastic wrapping covering stored polystyrene insulating sheets. Due to high winds the flames quickly spread to other materials and installed air handling units. Despite attempts by the contractor’s emergency team to tackle the fire using extinguishers, the fire continued to spread and was eventually extinguished by Civil Defense. Key Points • Although a hot work permit had been obtained, the permit receiver was not trained on the procedure and the conditions of the permit were not followed. In particular, removal or covering of combustible material had not been undertaken. • There were communication barriers between the supervisor and work team which impacted communication of the permit controls. • The pre-start activity briefing had not been conducted. • The hot work permit training provided did not correlate with the approved procedure. Recommendations • Review hot work procedures, training and work practices to ensure they are aligned. • Identify verbal and written communication barriers on your project; consider the need for translators and availability of permits to work in multiple languages. • Ensure permits are only used for high risk activities, with safety critical works subject to increased focus, review and audit from consultants, site managers and health and safety professionals.

1. Form # HSEQ – HSEA (Rev 2 – Sep 18)
HSE ALERT # 055
Arabtec Construction
HSEQ & Org. Risk Dept.
HOT WORKS FIRE RISK
(Non-Arabtec Project)
During waterproofing hot works on the roof of a non-Arabtec project, a fire started when the
flame of a welding torch ignited plastic wrapping covering stored polystyrene insulating
sheets. Due to high winds the flames quickly spread to other materials and installed air
handling units. Despite attempts by the contractor’s emergency team to tackle the fire using
extinguishers, the fire continued to spread and was eventually extinguished by Civil Defense.
Key Points
 Although a hot work permit had been obtained, the permit receiver was not trained
on the procedure and the conditions of the permit were not followed. In particular,
removal or covering of combustible material had not been undertaken.
 There were communication barriers between the supervisor and work team which
impacted communication of the permit controls.
 The pre-start activity briefing had not been conducted.
 The hot work permit training provided did not correlate with the approved procedure.
Recommendations
 Review hot work procedures, training and work practices to ensure they are aligned.
 Identify verbal and written communication barriers on your project; consider the need
for translators and availability of permits to work in multiple languages.
 Ensure permits are only used for high risk activities, with safety critical works subject
to increased focus, review and audit from consultants, site managers and health and
safety professionals.