Hot works – FAQ
We have been working with training in hot works for several years. We have collected most of the questions and issues we receive from our customers and here you will find answers.
How long is the hot work certificate valid for?
The hot work certificate is valid for 5 years. After expiry, you must take a new course to be re-certified.
How to renew the certificate in hot work?
To renew the certificate, you must take a new course, including an exam and a new fire extinguishing exercise.
Can I take a “simpler” recertification course if I have the course from before?
No, you can’t. You must take a new course every 5 years.
Who can instruct and certify the practical implementation of the fire extinguishing exercise for hot work?
The Fire Protection Association has a list of all approved instructors in Norway who can sign instructions for the implementation of practical fire extinguishing exercises for hot work. You can find the overview here. In addition, fire service employees with expertise in conducting practical fire extinguishing exercises can attest to the instructions.
When should you take the extinguishing exercise?
The course and extinguishing exercise must be completed within a period of three (3) months. Documentation of the completed extinguishing exercise must therefore be submitted to the course organiser by this deadline.
What type of certificate do I get for the hot work course?
As part of the course and certification package, you will receive a digital certificate from the Norwegian Fire Protection Association. When you have completed and passed the course in hot work, the course instructor will report this to the Fire Protection Association. As soon as the Fire Protection Association has processed the certification, you will receive a text message that your certificate is available. Once you have received the text message, you can find the certificate via this link: bvis.brannvernforeningen.no
When is a certificate for hot work required?
A certificate in hot work is necessary in order to fulfil the insurance companies’ requirements. In Norway, it is a requirement that persons who perform hot work, i.e. work that involves the use of open and hidden flames or other heat sources, must have a valid certificate to perform this work legally and safely.
In which countries is the hot work certificate valid?
The certification schemes in use in the Nordic countries have many similarities, but there are also some unique features. In Norway and Finland, there is only one certificate that is linked to the performance of hot work. This certificate covers a wide range of hot work. The Norwegian and Finnish certificates are valid in all the Nordic countries, with the exception of Sweden.
Denmark, on the other hand, has two different types of certificates for the performance of heating works. One certificate is aimed at roofing, while the other covers heating work other than roofing. The Danish certificates are valid in Norway and Finland, but only within their respective areas.
In Sweden, there is a transition period where Nordic certificates issued before 30 June 2023 will be recognised for the remaining period of validity. However, as of 1 July 2023, only certified consequence owners in accordance with the SBF 2022 standards will be recognised. This means that Norwegian certificates issued after 1 July 2023 will not be valid in Sweden. The same applies to Finnish and Danish certificates.
Who must have a course in hot work?
In Norway, anyone who is to carry out hot work must complete a course in hot work. This applies to self-employed persons, employees and apprentices. The requirement for courses applies regardless of industry or type of business and is stipulated in section 10-2 of the Regulations concerning the performance of work.
What is considered hot work?
Hot work means work that uses tools or equipment that generates sparks and/or heat that can lead to fire. Hot work includes the use of open and hidden flames, hot air, welding, cutting and grinding equipment.
Who has introduced the hot work certificate?
Finance Norway is responsible for the scheme. The Hot Work Certificate was introduced in 2001 by Finance Norway (the insurance companies’ joint interest organisation) in collaboration with the Norwegian Fire Protection Association.
Who sets the requirements for hot work?
The requirements for hot work are set by the insurance companies’ safety regulations. The Fire and Explosion Protection Act. The Working Environment Act. Internal control regulations. Regulations on the performance of work.
What is correct about the risk of hot work?
Before carrying out hot work, you must assess the risks associated with the work and identify the hazards that may arise. A risk assessment must always be carried out before starting work. Risk is the probability of something unexpected happening and the consequences of that happening.
Are angle grinders hot work?
Yes, angle grinders qualify as hot work. It can generate powerful sparks that can potentially lead to fires even far away from the actual work area.
Are heat guns hot work?
Yes, hot air guns qualify as hot work. Heat guns use hot air to generate high temperatures, and this type of tool can pose a fire risk if not used properly.
Does a heat gun have an open flame?
No, a heat gun does not have an open flame. It works by generating hot air using an electric heating element or combustion unit. It can be used to soften or remove materials without having an open flame.
How hot does a heat gun get?
The hot air from a heat gun can develop high enough temperatures to ignite flammable material. Generally speaking, heat guns can produce hot air with temperatures ranging from around 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit) to over 600 degrees Celsius (1112 degrees Fahrenheit). The ignition temperature of wood, paper and textiles is between +200 and +400 degrees C. This means that equipment such as a hot air gun can generate enough heat for materials to self-ignite.
When is a fire watch needed?
The safety regulations require that there must always be a fire watch in situations where there is an increased risk of fire or where fire prevention measures are necessary to ensure the safety of people and property. A fire watch is a measure that is implemented to prevent fire and minimise the damage in the event of a fire.
What do the safety regulations say for carrying out hot work?
The safety regulations apply when carrying out hot work in all environments with a fire risk. You can download the regulations for 2024 here .
We at Instant Norge have for many years provided training in hot works and offer both interactive online courses in hot works and extinguishing exercises. If you have any further questions about hot works, please do not hesitate to contact us.
