What is the purpose of a fire watch?

The purpose of a fire watch is to monitor construction or repair work for fire hazards. This activity is essential during operations where potential fire sources are present, such as welding, cutting, or grinding. A designated fire watch personnel is tasked with observing the work area for any signs of ignitions or dangerous sparks, especially when flammable materials are nearby. Their role includes being vigilant for early indicators of fire, having a fire extinguisher or other firefighting tools on hand, and being prepared to raise the alarm or take action immediately if a fire develops.

While guarding materials from theft and ensuring compliance with safety regulations are important aspects of overall safety and security management, they do not specifically address the immediate needs during high-risk activities associated with fire hazards. Similarly, training employees on fire safety is vital for long-term hazard prevention but does not relate directly to the on-the-spot monitoring required during hazardous work operations. Thus, the primary aim of a fire watch is to actively prevent fires by monitoring potentially hazardous activities.