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NFPA 51B is the nation's most comprehensive document on hot work safety.

Hot work can be dangerous, especially when combustible materials are in the area. NFPA 51B: Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting, and Other Hot Work helps reduce the risks associated with hot work projects such as welding, heat treating, grinding, and other applications likely to produce sparks or flames.

Trust the 2014 NFPA 51B to help clarify activities and safety precautions for anyone conducting hot work operations, in any setting!

This welding standard provides general requirements to help ensure those involved with hot work are addressing fire and explosion hazards prevention and safety practices in areas where combustible materials could spark or ignite from the hot work being performed. It also offers clear guidance on managing the activities and safety requirements of permit-authorizing individuals (PAIs), fire watch, welders, fire marshals, and hot work operators -- in any setting where hot works are used.

NFPA 51B provides clear instruction on safe use of welding, cutting, heat treating, grinding and hot work equipment such as blankets, curtains, and pads.

Whether you're a contract welder or a fire chief, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the current requirements of hot works safety. Many people don't realize that NFPA 51B covers far more than permit areas -- this document also pertains to areas that are designed for hot work. If you're seeking clear instructions and the latest information on the use of equipment such as welding blankets, curtains, and pads, you'll need to reference this manual often.

Changes in the current standard include:

• Better defined requirements for designated areas where hot work is performed without need of a permit
• Clearer language underscoring that all hot work falls under this standard