Safe Use of Torches and Heat Guns

Key Hazards

• Burns from flame, hot air, heated materials, or hot surfaces
• Fire from sparks, heat transfer, or nearby combustibles
• Fumes from heating paint, plastic, adhesives, or chemicals
• Electrical hazards from damaged heat gun cords or plugs
• Gas cylinder or fuel hazards during torch use
• Hidden ignition after work is complete

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Torches and heat guns are useful tools, but they create fire, burn, fume, and energy hazards. Heat can travel farther than expected and ignite materials that are not directly touched by the flame or hot air.

The work area should be inspected before heat is applied. Paper, cardboard, wood, insulation, dust, rags, plastic, fuel, solvents, and other combustibles should be removed or protected.

Hot work procedures may apply when using torches or other open-flame equipment. Permits, fire extinguishers, fire watch, and post-work inspections may be required depending on the location.

Workers should keep hands, clothing, cords, hoses, and nearby materials away from flame, hot air, heated metal, and hot surfaces.

Fumes should be considered when heating paint, plastic, adhesives, coatings, pipe wrap, or unknown materials. Ventilation or respiratory protection may be needed.

Heat guns should be inspected for damaged cords, plugs, housings, switches, and air openings. They should not be used where flammable vapors or wet electrical conditions are present unless approved.

Torches require safe handling of fuel, hoses, cylinders, tips, regulators, and ignition sources. Leaks, damaged hoses, or poor storage can create serious fire hazards.

The work is not complete just because the tool is turned off. Heated surfaces, hidden embers, and heat transfer through walls or materials can start a fire after workers leave.

Safety Reminders

• Inspect the work area for combustible materials.
• Follow hot work permit and fire watch requirements when applicable.
• Keep fire extinguishing equipment nearby when needed.
• Protect hands, clothing, cords, and hoses from heat.
• Provide ventilation when heating materials can create fumes.
• Inspect torches, hoses, regulators, cords, and heat guns before use.
• Check the area after work for hidden heat or fire hazards.

Ask the Crew

• What combustible materials are near the work area?
• Does this task require hot work controls or a fire watch?
• Could heating this material create fumes?
• Are the torch, hose, regulator, or heat gun in safe condition?
• How will the area be checked after the work is complete?