Today's blog post is all about the F 60 practice test. This test is a requirement for anyone who wants to obtain their flight instructor certificate with an instrument rating. In this post, we'll go over what you can expect from the test and how to best prepare for it. Additionally, we'll provide a few tips to help you ace the exam.
You will discover information regarding the type of form you intend to fill out in the table. It will tell you how much time you'll need to finish f 60 practice test, what parts you will need to fill in, and so on.
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Form Name | F 60 Practice Test |
Form Length | 31 pages |
Fillable? | No |
Fillable fields | 0 |
Avg. time to fill out | 7 min 45 sec |
Other names | f60 fire guard test, f60 fire guard test questions and answers, fire guard test questions and answers, s60 fireguard |
Revised on 01/2022 (update to standard NOE and PFE)
FIRE DEPARTMENT ● CITY OF NEW YORK
STUDY MATERIAL FOR THE
CONSOLIDATED EXAMINATION
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.
*Note: The
*Note: The
© 05/2011 New York City Fire Department - All rights reserved ®
TABLE OF CONTENT
EXAM SPECIFIC INFORMATION FOR
STUDY MATERIAL AND TEST DECRIPTION |
4 |
||
Certificate of Fitness |
6 |
||
DEFINITIONS |
12 |
||
PART 1. HOT WORK OPERATION AND FIRE WATCH |
13 |
||
1.1 |
Responsible Person and |
14 |
|
1.2 |
Fire Safety Requirements |
16 |
|
1.2.1. |
Gas Torch Operation Precautions |
16 |
|
1.2.2. |
Protection of Combustibles |
16 |
|
1.2.3. |
Signage |
18 |
|
1.3 |
Fire Watch Requirements |
18 |
|
1.3.1. |
Fire watch |
18 |
|
1.3.2. |
Fire guard |
19 |
|
1.3.3. |
Fire guard for construction sites and |
19 |
|
1.3.4. |
Time and Recordkeeping requirement |
21 |
|
Example: Fire Guard Daily Log Book for Hot Work |
22 |
||
1.4 |
Gas Welding and Cutting Precautions |
23 |
|
PART 2. EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION, FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS, |
|||
AND FIRE EXTINGUISHERS |
24 |
||
2.1 |
Notification |
24 |
|
2.2 |
Fire Protection System |
24 |
|
2.2.1 |
Fire hoses |
24 |
|
2.2.2 |
Sprinkler protection |
24 |
|
2.2.3 |
Fire detection system |
25 |
|
2.3 |
Fire Extinguishers |
25 |
|
2.3.1 |
Operation Instructions for a Fire Extinguisher |
26 |
|
2.3.2 |
Fire Extinguishers Types |
27 |
|
2.3.3 |
Typical Fire Extinguishers |
28 |
|
2.3.4 |
Fire Extinguisher Inspections |
29 |
|
2.3.5 |
Portable Fire Extinguisher (PFE) Tags |
30 |
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
A |
|
EXAM SPECIFIC INFORMATION FOR
Save time and submit application online!
Applicants who submitted and paid online for an exam before arriving at the FDNY will not need to wait in line to enter the FDNY.
It can take about 30 minutes to complete. Completing application and paying online will eliminate waiting outside in the long lines.
Simplified instructions for online application and payment can be found here:
Create an Account and Log in to:
https://fires.fdnycloud.org/CitizenAccess/SAML/NYCIDLogin.aspx
REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS APPLICATION
General requirements:
Review the General Notice of Exam:
Special requirements for the:
Application fee (Cash is NO LONGER ACCEPTED):
Pay the $25 application fee online or in person by one of the following methods:
•Credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa)
•Debit card (MasterCard or Visa)
•In person: Personal or company check or money order (made payable to the New York City Fire Department)
A convenience fee of 2% will be applied to all credit card payments.
For fee waivers submit: (Only government employees who will use their COF for their work- related responsibilities are eligible for fee waivers.)
•A letter requesting fee waiver on the Agency’s official letterhead stating applicant full name, exam type and address of premises; AND
•Copy of identification card issued by the agency
REQUIREMENTS FOR ALTERNATIVE ISSUANCE PROCEDURE (AIP)
No AIP available. This certificate of fitness can only be obtained by passing the computer exam at the FDNY Headquarters.
EXAM INFORMATION
The
Call (718)
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
2 |
|
Please always check for the latest revised booklet at FDNY website before you take the exam.
Exam site: FDNY Headquarters, 9 MetroTech Center, Brooklyn, NY. Enter through the Flatbush Avenue entrance (between Myrtle Avenue and Tech Place).
RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS
General renewal requirements:
Review the General Notice of Exam:
Special renewal requirements for
The FDNY strongly recommends the
QUESTIONS?
FDNY Business Support Team: For questions, call 311 and ask for the FDNY Customer
Service Center or send an email to FDNY.BusinessSupport@fdny.nyc.gov
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
3 |
|
STUDY MATERIAL AND TEST DECRIPTION
About the Study Material
This study material will help you prepare for the examination for the Certificate of Fitness for fire guard for torch operations. The study material includes information taken from the Fire Prevention Code of the Bureau of Fire Prevention. This study material consists of 3 parts. The exam covers the entire booklet and any tables. It will not be provided to you during the test. It is critical that you read and understand this booklet to help increase your chance of passing this exam. The study material does not contain all of the information you need to know to work as a fire guard. It is your responsibility to become familiar with all applicable rules and regulations of the City of New York, even if they are not covered in this study material. You need to be familiar with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 51B, and Fire Code Chapter 26, which regulate the duties of fire guards for performing fire watch for torch operations in order to adequately prepare for the exam.
About the Test
25 questions on the
Sample Questions
The following questions represent the “format” of the exam questions,
not the content of the real exam.
1.Which of the following are allowed to be used/displayed while taking a Certificate of Fitness examination at 9 Metro Tech Center?
I. cellular phone
II. study material booklet
III.reference material provided by the FDNY IV. mp3 player
A.III only
B.I, II, and III
C.II and IV
D.I only
Only reference material provided by the FDNY is allowed to be used during Certificate of Fitness examinations. Therefore, the correct answer would be A. You would touch “A” on the computer terminal screen.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
4 |
|
2.If you do not know the answer to a question while taking an examination, who should you ask for help?
A. the person next to you B. the firefighters
C. the examiner in the testing room
D. you should not ask about test questions since FDNY staff cannot assist applicants
You should not ask about examination questions or answers since FDNY staff cannot assist applicants with their tests. Therefore, the correct answer would be D. You would touch "D" on the computer terminal screen.
3.If the screen on your computer terminal freezes during your examination, who should you ask for help?
A. the person next to you
B. the firefighters
C. the examiner in the testing room
D. the computer help desk
If you have a computer related question, you should ask the examiner in the testing room. Therefore, the correct answer would be C. You would touch “C” on the computer terminal screen.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
5 |
|
INTRODUCTION
This document outlines New York City Fire Department regulations for fire guard for hot work operations. Fire guards are required to reduce the threat of fires.
Certificate of Fitness
The fire watch for torch operations conducted at the following three locations shall be conducted by at least one
(1)Construction sites.
(2)In any building or structure, when the torch operation is conducted by a person holding a citywide permit for torch operations.
(3)On any rooftop, or in connection with any
The Certificate of Fitness holder must keep the Certificates of Fitness upon his or her person, or otherwise readily available for inspection by any representative of the Department, at all times while conducting or supervising the material, operation or facility for which the certificate is required.
The
•Welding and Other Hot Work: [FC Chapter 26]
•Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting and Other Hot Work: [NFPA 51B, 2003 edition]
•Liquefied Petroleum Gases: [Rule
•Compressed Natural Gas [Rule
FDNY Permit
Permits issued by the FDNY are required to conduct the following hot work:
(1)storing, using or handling oxygen and a flammable gas, or
(2)storing, using or handling any flammable gas (e.g. LPG or CNG or acetylene) in excess of 400 SCF.
or
(3)storing, using or handling any oxidizing gas (e.g. oxygen) in excess of 504 SCF
For LPG, 400 SCF is approximately 47 lbs. The following table lists the number of LPG containers for the storage, use, handling or transportation, requiring a permit. This permit will be issued by the Fire Commissioner after the location has been inspected and approved as acceptable for such practices.
LPG Container Capacity |
Number of Containers Requiring Permit |
14.1 oz |
54 |
16.4 oz |
46 |
20 lbs |
3 |
33.5 lbs |
2 |
40 lbs |
2 |
100 lbs |
1 |
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
6 |
|
Portable LPG containers that are more than 16.4 oz and CNG containers with a capacity greater than 8.7 SCF must NOT stored, handled, or used indoors/roof in the following occupancies (as defined in the Building code): residential occupancies, factory and industrial occupancies; educational occupancies; institutional occupancies, except as the commissioner may authorize by rule.
Use of LPG/Propane on an occupied roof requires an affidavit from a licensed professional (Architect or Engineer) stating the roof is constructed of
Any single standard portable LPG container must not exceed 100 lbs in weight. Any single CNG container must not exceed 381 SCF.
A LPG/CNG permit will not be issued by the FDNY for a stationary LPG/CNG installation located in an area where access to piped natural gas from a public utility is available.
Example of LPG container with a capacity of 20 lbs
Example of LPG container with a capacity of 100 lbs
Types of FDNY Permits
(1)
Such permit authorizes the permit holder to store, handle, or use flammable gases, or conduct a torch operation at a specific premises or location. A
Example of a permanent FDNY permit
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
7 |
|
Example of a temporary FDNY permit
This temporary permit is valid for 7 months.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
8 |
|
(2) Citywide permit
Such permit authorizes the permit holder to store, handle, use or sell hazardous materials, or conduct an operation on a citywide basis. A citywide permit is valid to temporarily store, handle, use or sell hazardous materials or to conduct an operation at one or more locations subject to the following restrictions:
•The duration of such activity at any individual location does not exceed 30 calendar days and all hazardous materials associated with such activity are removed from the location at the end of the workday. Periods of activity in excess of 30 calendar days at any one location shall require a
•The quantity of hazardous materials being temporarily stored and used does not exceed 5 gallons of gasoline, or 250 gallons of any other flammable liquid, and 300 gallons of any combustible liquid. Storage or use of hazardous materials in quantities exceeding these amounts requires a
(3)Transportation permit
Such permit authorizes the permit holder to transport, pick up and deliver hazardous materials. Any person who transports any hazardous material in the quantity of requiring a FDNY permit has to apply for a FDNY transportation permit. The FDNY transportation permit (sticker) must be displayed on the vehicle.
Example of a FDNY transportation permit (a sticker)
Month of inspection (will be punched)
Year that permit expires
All permits are not transferable, and any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy or ownership requires that a new permit be issued. The Certificate of Fitness holder is responsible for making sure that all fire safety regulations and procedures are obeyed on the premises. Permits shall be readily available on the premise for inspection by Fire
Department representatives.
Hot Work Authorization (Hot Work Program Permit)
A hot work program authorization is required for any project conducted on premises involving hot work operations. Hot work program authorization is NOT issued by the FDNY, it must be signed and issued by the responsible person, and it must be available for
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
9 |
|
inspection by any representative of the Fire Department during the performance of the work, and for 48 hours after the work is complete.
An authorization for hot work operations shall not be issued unless the individuals conducting such operations are capable of performing such operations safely.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
10 |
|
HOT WORK AUTHORIZATION PERMIT
Note: This authorization applies only to this job, and in the area specified during the date and time noted.
GENERAL INFORMATION
|
Hot Work Performed By: |
Employee |
Contractor |
| |
Authorization # |
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Employee / |
|
|
|
Contractors Name: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supervisor / Foreman Name: |
|
|
|
Supervisor / Foreman - |
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
Location: Building address, room # and/or area of work . |
|
Start Date: ________________ Permit Start Time: ______________ |
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||
___________________________________________________________ |
Stop Date: ________________ Permit Stop Time: ______________ |
||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||
___________________________________________________________ |
Comments: ___________________________________________________ |
||||||
___________________________________________________________ |
_____________________________________________ |
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
HOT WORK ACTIVITY
ARC WELDING
SOLDERING
GRINDING
BRAZING
USING OXYGEN AND A FLAMMABLE GAS (FDNY PERMIT)
MAPP WELDING
WELDING
CUTTING
OTHER:___________________________________
Torch operations using oxygen and a flammable gas, and any torch operation for
Torch Operator:
Certificate #:
Exp Date:
Fire Guard:
Certificate #:
Exp Date:
ACCEPTANCE BY THE RESPONSIBLE PERSON FOR HOT WORK
I certify that all applicable codes, procedures, regulations, rules,
Name:
______________________________________________
Employee |
Contractor |
Signature:
______________________________________________
Date:
DESIGNATED TO AUTHORIZE THE PERFORMANCE OF HOT WORK
Name:
Signature:
Time:
Date:
Fire alarm precautions taken |
YES |
N/A Type: ________________________ |
______________________________________________________________________
YES |
FDNY permit required to conduct hot work?
YES |
N/A |
This authorization shall be available for inspection by any representative of the fire department during the performance of the work and for 48 hours after the work is complete.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
11 |
|
DEFINITIONS
FIRE GUARD: A person holding a Certificate of Fitness for such purposes, who is trained in and responsible for maintaining a fire watch and performing such fire safety duties as may be prescribed by the commissioner.
FIRE WATCH: A temporary measure intended to ensure continuous and systematic surveillance of a building or portion thereof by one or more qualified individuals for the purposes of identifying and controlling fire hazards, detecting early signs of fire, raising an alarm of fire, and notifying the department.
HOT WORK: Cutting, welding, thermit welding, brazing, soldering, grinding, thermal spraying, thawing pipe, cadwelding, installation of
HOT WORK AREA: The area exposed to sparks, hot slag, radiant heat, or convective heat as a result of hot work.
HOT WORK EQUIPMENT. Electric or gas welding or cutting equipment used for hot work.
HOT WORK PROGRAM. A program, implemented by a responsible person designated by the owner of a building or structure in or on which hot work is being performed, to oversee and issue authorizations for such hot work for the purpose of preventing fire and fire spread.
HOT WORK PROGRAM AUTHORIZATIONS. Authorizations issued by the responsible person under a hot work program allowing welding or other hot work to be performed at the premises.
NFPA: National Fire Protection Association. The world's leading advocate of fire prevention and an authoritative source on public safety. NFPA develops, publishes, and disseminates more than 300 consensus codes and standards intended to minimize the possibility and effects of fire and other risks.
RESPONSIBLE PERSON: A person trained in the fire safety hazards associated with hot work, and in the necessary and appropriate measures to minimize those hazards, who is designated by the owner of a premises to authorize the performance of hot work at the premises.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
12 |
|
PART 1. HOT WORK OPERATION AND FIRE WATCH
A high temperature flame is needed to perform hot work operations. However, usually it is not the flame that causes a fire. Instead, it is the thousands of sparks and pieces of hot metal that are generated when using the torch. The sparks and pieces of hot metal are all possible sources of ignition. In fact, sparks and pieces of hot metal are the source of ignition in about 60% of all fires in industrial occupancies. This number is greatly reduced when the operators are trained to use the equipment correctly.
Fire History Summary
Date |
Fire Summary |
Lessons Learned |
|
|
Chinese city of Shanghai |
There should be a safe |
|
|
construction fire |
distance between the |
|
|
Sparks from welding |
combustible materials |
|
|
equipment set a light |
(in this case the |
|
|
nylon construction |
bamboo scaffolding) |
|
Nov. |
netting and bamboo |
the hot work |
|
2010 |
scaffolding that nearly |
operations area, or |
|
|
covered the building. |
there should be a fire |
|
|
58 people died and 56 |
guard watching for |
|
|
still missing, and more |
sparks. |
|
|
than 120 are injured. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Throgs Neck construction |
Although still under |
|
|
fire, |
investigation, the |
|
|
Queens, NY |
cause reflects a lack of |
|
|
At 5 a.m. a fire started |
fire safety at the |
|
July |
near scaffolding and |
construction site. |
|
2009 |
flammable construction |
|
|
|
materials on the Queens- |
|
|
|
side bridge approach by a |
|
|
|
construction worker’s |
|
|
|
blow torch. |
|
|
|
Sheetrock had not yet |
|
|
|
construction fire, |
been installed to |
|
|
Renton, WA |
protect the wood |
|
|
Several spot fires from a |
framing. There should |
|
|
roof torch had fallen into |
be a fire guard |
|
|
the void between the |
watching for sparks. |
|
June |
insulation, ceiling, and |
|
|
roof assembly, and a |
|
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
breeze provided enough |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
air for a fire to flare up |
|
|
|
early hours later. The fire |
|
|
|
spread rapidly through |
|
|
|
the wooden construction. |
|
|
|
$12 million damage |
|
|
|
estimate in this fire. |
|
|
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
13 |
|
Date |
Fire Summary |
Lessons Learned |
|
Casino Fire, Joliet, IL |
There should be a fire |
|
A fire sparked by a |
guard watching for |
|
construction worker |
sparks. |
|
welded a kitchen hood in |
|
|
an area of the casino. |
|
Mar. |
The fire caused heavy |
|
damage to sections of the |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Empress Casino and |
|
|
|
|
|
|
firefighters had to truck |
|
|
in water to contain the |
|
|
blaze. $340 million |
|
|
damage estimate in this |
|
|
fire. |
|
|
Dongdu Commercial |
Only 60 escaped the |
|
Building construction, |
fire, as construction |
|
Luoyang, China |
material and |
|
Construction workers in |
merchandise blocked |
|
the basement dropped |
exits. Firefighters used |
|
molten metal on flannel |
cranes to attempt |
Dec. |
rags and wooden |
rescues, and the fire |
2000 |
furniture. The welders |
took 3 hours to |
|
fled without warning, and |
extinguish. The |
|
workers on 2nd and 3rd |
welders who started |
|
floor, as well as 200 |
the fire were |
|
guests at an illegal party, |
performing unlicensed |
|
were trapped. 309 people |
renovation work. |
|
died. |
|
Sources
Arnold, Jim. “Large Building Fires and Subsequent Code Changes”. April 7, 2005. FDNY: Worker’s blow torch started Throgs Neck fire. (2009, July 13). Newsday.
Small Fire causes damage at hospital construction site. (2010, February 16). Daily Sound.
Stephen G. Badger. “US
1.1 Responsible Person and
For hot work operation with citywide permit, the owner of the premises of the hot work operation areas must be notified in writing by the citywide permit holder at least 48 hours before the hot work is to be started.
For all hot work operations, the owner of the hot work operation areas must designate a responsible person. The responsible person must ensure that the hot work is performed in compliance with the terms and conditions of the permit. The person should inspect the hot work site prior to issuing the hot work authorization (hot work program authorization) to ensure that it is a fire safe area. He/she also need to periodically monitor the work as it is being performed to ensure there are no fire safety hazards. Hot work operations must be conducted under the general supervision of the responsible person.
Before hot work is authorized and at least once per day while the authorization is in effect, the hot work area shall be inspected by the responsible person to ensure that it is a fire safe area.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
14 |
|
The
A
1.The hot work equipment is in good working order.
2.The hot work area is clear of combustibles and flammable solids.
(1)35 feet rule for cutting or welding operation
Hot work operations involving cutting or welding shall be conducted at least 35 feet from combustible materials and combustible waste or shall be provided with appropriate shielding to prevent sparks, slag or heat from igniting exposed combustibles.
(2) 25 feet rule for other hot work operation
All other hot work operations shall be conducted at least 25 feet from combustible materials and combustible waste or shall be provided with appropriate shielding to prevent sparks, slag or heat from igniting exposed combustibles.
The 2009 edition of National Fire Protection Association 51B shows the
3. Exposed construction is of noncombustible materials or, if combustible, is protected.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
15 |
|
4.Openings are protected.
5.Hot work area floors are clear of combustible waste accumulation.
6.Fire watch personnel, where required, are assigned.
7.Approved actions have been taken to prevent accidental activation of fire extinguishing
systems and detection equipment.
(1) Sprinkler protection.
Sprinkler system protection must not be shut off or impaired while hot work is performed. Where hot work is performed close to sprinklers, noncombustible barriers or damp cloth guards shall shield the individual sprinkler heads and shall be removed when the work is completed. If the work extends over several days, the shields shall be removed at the end of each workday.
(2) Fire detection systems.
Approved precautionary measures shall be taken to avoid accidental operation of automatic fire detection systems. For example, the fire alarm system (e.g. smoke detectors) may need to be taken out of service during the hot work operation to avoid unwarranted alarms. The date and time the alarm system was taken
9.Portable fire extinguishers and fire hoses (where provided) are operable and available.
10.All persons performing hot work possess certificates of fitness, where such certificates are required.
(1)
(2)
(3)
11.All persons performing hot work requiring a permit possess a
1.2 Fire Safety Requirements
1.2.1.Gas Torch Operation Precautions
Each person must operate only one torch at a time and such torch must not be left unattended while ignited.
The torch equipment should only be used for purposes for which it was intended. It should not be used for any kind of tricks or stunts. This could result in serious or fatal injuries.
1.2.2.Protection of Combustibles
Areas designed for hot work operations shall have floors with noncombustible surfaces. Paper, wood shavings, straw and fabric are examples of combustible materials. Hot work operations involving cutting or welding shall be conducted at least 35 feet from combustible materials and combustible waste or shall be provided with appropriate shielding to prevent sparks, slag or heat from igniting exposed combustibles.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
16 |
|
All other hot work operations shall be conducted at least 25 feet from combustible materials and combustible waste or shall be provided with appropriate shielding to prevent sparks, slag or heat from igniting exposed combustibles.
Combustible waste shall not be allowed to accumulate on floors and other surfaces within the hot work area. Hot work areas shall be regularly cleaned and combustible waste removed and disposed of lawfully.
If possible, the combustible materials should be moved to a safe location. If relocation of the combustible materials is impractical, combustibles, openings or cracks in walls, floors, ducts or shafts within 35 feet of the hot work area must be tightly covered to prevent the passage of sparks to adjacent combustible areas, or shielded by metal or
It is prohibited to perform welding or cutting when supported by or resting on any compressed gas containers. Hot work shall not be performed on a container or equipment that contains or has contained a flammable solid, flammable liquid or flammable gas until the container or equipment has been thoroughly cleaned and purged. Hot work involving cutting, welding or heating of any flammable solid in any form shall be conducted only with an approval of the FDNY.
Partitions segregating hot work areas from other areas of the building shall be of noncombustible construction. In fixed hot work areas, the partitions shall be securely connected to the floor such that no gap exists between the floor and the partition. Partitions shall prevent the passage of sparks, slag, and heat from the hot work area.
Special requirement for a repair garage:
The use of a torch within a repair garage located on a property upon which a
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
17 |
|
In a repair garage with a capacity for more than one vehicle, hot work shall be conducted within a
1.2.3.Signage
Where the hot work area is accessible to persons other than the operator of the hot work equipment, visible hazard identification signs must be posted in a conspicuous location to warn others before they enter the hot work area. An example warning sign is shown below.
A copy of the FDNY permit and hot work authorization are to be kept by the fire guard or the person who performs the fire watch. Copies of completed permits will be maintained in the project files. All hot work authorizations must be returned to the responsible person upon completion of work for the day to confirm that work in the area has been concluded. This returned authorization must be filed with the FDNY hot work permit section with the appropriate original.
1.3 Fire Watch Requirements
1.3.1.Fire watch
A fire watch must be maintained during any hot work operation. The fire watch shall observe the entire hot work area. Hot work conducted in areas with vertical or horizontal fire exposures that are not observable by a single individual shall have additional personnel assigned to ensure that exposed areas are monitored.
Persons conducting a fire watch shall keep constant watch for fires with respect to the areas being monitored in connection with hot work operations. The persons conducting a fire watch shall not have other duties.
Where hose lines are required, they shall be connected, charged and ready for operation. At least one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum
Exception: There shall be not less than one
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
18 |
|
1.3.2.Fire guard
The fire watch for torch operations conducted at the following three locations shall be conducted by at least one
(1)Construction sites.
(2)In any building or structure, when the torch operation is conducted by a person holding a citywide permit for torch operations.
(3)On any rooftop, or in connection with any
It is important to understand the
1.3.3.Fire guard for construction sites and
It shall be unlawful to install any roofing material using a torch on a roof of combustible construction, or otherwise engage in roofing operations on roofs of combustible construction using hot work equipment.
A
At a construction site and
Exception:
The single fire guard may be designated to conduct a fire watch for more than one torch operation on the same floor or level if each torch operation is not more than 50 feet from the fire guard, as measured by the actual path of travel, and the field of view of such fire guard encompasses all of the horizontal fire exposures of such torch operations.
Fire watch on floors below: Additional
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
19 |
|
Fire watch is required for adjoining areas and below to make sure that sparks do not cause a fire on the adjoining areas.
This additional fire guard must conduct a fire watch on each lower floor or level containing combustible surfaces or materials within 35 feet of the area of such floor or level that potentially would be exposed to such sparks or slag. Prior to commencement of the torch operation, the fire safety manager or responsible person shall inspect the lower floors or levels and take all necessary and appropriate precautions to protect any combustible surfaces and materials that potentially would be exposed to sparks and slag from the torch operation. A certification to that effect must be made on the hot work authorization.
Exception:
1.A fire watch is not required on the floors/levels below a torch operation on a construction site when ALL the following conditions are met:
1.1.the torch operation is not being conducted at or near the edge of an unenclosed floor of a building;
1.2.the floor upon which the torch operation is being conducted is of noncombustible construction;
1.3.there are no floor or exterior building openings within 35 feet of the torch operation; AND
1.4.prior to commencement of the torch operation, the fire safety manager or responsible person conducts an inspection and takes the precautions to protect any combustible surfaces and materials that potentially would be exposed to sparks and slag from the torch operation.
2.Notwithstanding the foregoing exception, if sparks or slag generated by the torch operation are observed to extend beyond 35 feet, thereby potentially exposing lower floors or levels, the torch operation shall be immediately discontinued, and the floors or levels below shall be inspected for any fire condition. If there is any potential exposure surfaces or materials on the floors below from such sparks and slag, noncombustible barriers shall be provided and any other necessary or appropriate precautions shall be taken. If such barriers and precautions fail to block the passage of sparks and slag, a fire watch shall be established on the floors or levels below.
The 2009 edition of National Fire Protection Association 51B shows the
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
20 |
|
1.3.4.Time and Recordkeeping requirement
A fire watch must be maintained during any hot work operation. The fire watch must continue for a minimum of 30 minutes after the conclusion of the work. The commissioner, or the responsible person implementing a hot work program, may extend the duration of the fire watch based on the hazards or work being performed.
For any CNG or LPG torch operation, the first inspection shall be conducted 30 minutes after completion of torch operations; the second inspection 1 hour after completion of torch operations. This is to make sure that there are no smoldering fires in the building. The fire guards must complete a signed inspection report. The fire guards or fire watch personnel must complete a signed inspection report (or the log book). This report must be submitted to and retained by the person in charge of the torch operations. The inspection report must be made available to any representative of the Fire Department and should be maintained on the premises for reasonable length of time (e.g. 48 hours) after work is complete.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
21 |
|
Example: Fire Guard Daily Log Book for Hot Work
Fire Guard’s Daily Log for Hot Work
Date: ______________
•Each fire guard monitoring hot work must complete this log daily
•Enter a check for each item after verifying it for compliance in each active hot work area. If an item is not compliant and the competent person designated for this hot work operation or the fire guard cannot correct it, then no hot work may proceed in the area and must be notified.
•Notify personnel of any and all incidents that occur. Fires of all sizes must be reported, even if they are immediately extinguished. If a fire cannot be extinguished immediately, contact emergency services (e.g. 911) directly.
•Report any fires related to hot work operations in the comments section of this log.
•Print your name and sign this log at the end of your shift.
|
|
|
Before beginning and while performing hot work |
|
After completing hot work |
||
WORK |
PERMIT |
INCIDENT |
FIRE |
COMBUSTIBLES |
FLAMMABLES |
FIRE GUARD |
|
AREA |
|
REPORTING |
EXTINGUISHER |
|
|
|
|
List each |
Posted by |
Radio or |
At least a |
Wood, cardboard, & |
Gas, Fuel, and |
Fire guard |
Area checked 30 minutes |
active hot |
fire guard |
phone on hand |
rating fire extinguisher |
other combustibles |
other flammables |
has an unobstructed |
after completion of work? |
work area |
at work |
to notify |
in work area? |
within 35’ to work |
no closer than 35’ |
line of sight? |
|
on the lines |
area? |
personnel in |
(a minimum |
area? |
to work area? |
|
|
below. |
|
case of |
B:C rating fire |
Blankets protecting |
|
|
|
|
|
incident? |
extinguisher on |
gas bottles in use? |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
system operations?) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMMENTS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name: ____________________________________________ Signature:_______________________________________________
Fire Guard Certificate of Fitness Number:_________________________________________ Expiration Date:___________________
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. 22
1.4 Gas Welding and Cutting Precautions
Oxygen containers and oxygen container valves, regulators, hose and other apparatus and fittings shall be kept free of oil or grease. Oxygen containers, apparatus and fittings shall not be handled with oily hands, oily gloves, or greasy tools or equipment. Oxygen and fuel gas containers shall be located at a distance from the hot work area sufficient to protect such containers from heat, sparks, slag, or misdirection of the torch flame.
The torch valve shall be closed and the gas supply to the torch completely shut off when hot work operations are discontinued for a period of 1 hour or more. Oxygen and fuel gas container valves shall be accessible to the torch operator or fire guard for immediate shutoff of the gas supply in the event of an emergency.
It shall be unlawful to conduct the following hot work operations:
1.Welding or cutting operations supported by or resting on compressed gas containers.
2.
3.Use of an acetylene generator for hot work operations.
It shall be unlawful to test piping equipment or systems for leaks using a flame. Tests for suspected leaks in piping equipment and systems shall be made using soapy water.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
23 |
|
PART 2. EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION, FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS, AND FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
2.1Notification
The fire guard must be familiar with emergency notification procedures. The fire guard can use a wireless phone to make emergency notifications. If a wireless phone is used, it is important to be sure that the battery has enough power to last the entire shift. Notifying the FDNY by phone is the most direct and effective way to make notification of an emergency.
When notifying 911 of a fire or other emergency, the
Additionally, if you are responsible for a very large construction site, it is likely that there will be more than one means of entry. Providing information about which entrance would provide the most direct access to the emergency area would be helpful in getting the emergency response personnel to the area of the emergency as quickly as possible. If certain construction site entrances are obstructed with construction equipment or construction materials and are not easily accessible by emergency responders this information should be communicated to the 911 operator. The more information you have available to communicate to the 911 operator, the more efficient they can get the right kind of help to you quickly.
When you call 911, in addition to the information mentioned above, you should be prepared to answer other 911 operator questions, which may include:
•The phone number you are calling from
•The nature of the emergency
•Details about the emergency, such as a physical description of a person who may have committed a crime, a description of any fire that may be burning, or a description of injuries or symptoms being experienced by a person having a medical emergency
Be prepared to follow any instructions the operator gives you. Many 911 operators can tell you exactly what to do to help in an emergency until help arrives.
Finally, do not hang up until the operator instructs you to.
After the FDNY arrives, the fire guard should be sure to meet the emergency responders to provide them with information regarding the nature of the emergency, its location on the construction site and to provide the information that the emergency responders request.
2.2Fire Protection System
2.2.1Fire hoses
Where hose lines are required, they shall be connected, charged and ready for operation.
2.2.2Sprinkler protection
Sprinkler system protection shall not be shut off or impaired while hot work is performed unless approved by the commissioner. Where hot work is performed close to
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
24 |
|
sprinklers, noncombustible barriers or damp cloth guards shall shield the individual sprinkler heads and shall be removed when the work is completed. If the work extends over several days, the shields shall be removed at the end of each workday.
2.2.3Fire detection system
Approved precautionary measures shall be taken to avoid accidental operation of automatic fire detection systems. For example, the fire alarm system (e.g. smoke detectors) may need to be taken out of service during the hot work operation to avoid unwarranted alarms. The date and time the alarm system was taken
2.3Fire Extinguishers
All persons conducting hot work operations or performing fire watch shall be trained in the use of portable fire extinguishers, and shall be capable of extinguishing fires when they are limited in size and spread such that they can readily be extinguished using a portable fire extinguisher.
Aportable fire extinguisher with at least a
In the event of a fire extinguisher has been discharged, a fully charged replacement is required before work can resume. The
C of F holder is recommended to be trained for the use of portable fire extinguisher. Portable fire extinguishers are important in preventing a small fire from growing into a catastrophic fire, however, they are not intended to fight large or spreading fires. The trained Certificate of Fitness holders should only consider extinguishing fires when they are limited in size and spread such that they can readily be extinguished using a portable fire extinguisher.
By the time the fire has spread, fire extinguishers, even if used properly, will not be adequate to extinguish the fire. Such fires should be extinguished by the building fire extinguishing systems or trained firefighters only. In case of any fire, FDNY must be notified. Fire extinguishers must be used in accordance with the instructions painted on the side of the extinguisher. They clearly describe how to use the extinguisher in case of an emergency. The Certificate of Fitness holder should be familiar with the use of portable fire extinguishers. When it comes to using a
properly. P.A.S.S. stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
25 |
|
All fire extinguishers must be installed so that the top of the extinguisher is not more than 5 ft above the floor and the clearance between the bottom of the extinguisher and the floor is not less than 4 in. In other words, no fire extinguisher is allowed to put on floor.
Fire extinguisher in a construction site. |
Improper floor placement |
|
of Fire Extinguisher. |
||
|
2.3.1Operation Instructions for a Fire Extinguisher
Special care must be taken when extinguishing a gas fire caused by a leak. The easiest way to extinguish the fire is to shut off by using the Emergency Shut Off valve until the flame is extinguished. In case of any fire, Fire Department must be notified. The flame must be approached from an upwind direction. This will prevent the Certificate of Fitness holder from being burned by the flames. Never approach a fire from a downwind direction. The correct ways to approach a fire are shown below.
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
26 |
|
The dry chemical stream must be directed toward the point where the flame begins. Do not direct the chemical stream at the center of the flame. This will not extinguish the fire. The correct way to direct the dry chemical stream is shown below.
For the piped gas, the gas supply must be shut off first and then call 911. This is safer than allowing the flammable gas (e.g. acetylene or LPG) to leak out. A flammable gas leak could result in a serious explosion if it were ignited. Never attempt to extinguish the flame unless the gas supply shut. When it is not possible to shut off the gas supply (e.g. the fire is near the control valve or the
the meantime, you should try to control the scene and prevent the fire spreading to the surrounding materials. The trained Certificate of Fitness holders should only consider extinguishing fires when they are limited in size and spread such that they can readily be extinguished using a portable fire extinguisher. By the time the fire has spread, fire extinguishers, even if used properly, will not be adequate to extinguish the fire. Such fires should be extinguished by the building fire extinguishing systems or trained firefighters only.
2.3.2Fire Extinguishers Types
The Certificate of Fitness holder must be familiar with the different types of fire extinguishers available at the work site. The Certificate of Fitness holder must know how to operate the extinguishers in a safe and efficient manner. The Certificate of Fitness holder must also know the difference between the various types of extinguishers and when they may be used. A description of the classes of fires and the appropriate extinguishers are described below.
Class A fires are caused by ordinary combustible materials (such as wood, paper, and cloth). To extinguish a Class A fire, these extinguishers utilize either the
Class B fires are caused by flammable or combustible liquids and gases such as oil, gasoline, etc. To extinguish a Class B fire, the
Class C fires involve electrical equipment. These fires must be fought with fire extinguishers that do not conduct electricity. Foam and water type extinguishers must not
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
27 |
|
be used to extinguish electrical fires. After shutting off the electrical equipment, extinguishers for Class A or B fires may be used.
Class D fires are caused by ignitable metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and metallic sodium, or metals that are combustible under certain conditions, such as calcium, zinc, and aluminum. Generally, water should not be used to extinguish these fires.
A
Examples of fire extinguishers
wheeled
2.3.3Typical Fire Extinguishers
Symbols may also be painted on the extinguisher. The symbols indicate what kind of fires the extinguisher may be used on. Examples of these symbols are shown below.
Fire Extinguisher Identification Symbols
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
28 |
|
The symbol with the shaded background and the slash indicates when the extinguisher must not be used. The Certificate of Fitness holder must understand these symbols. All fire extinguishers should be kept in good working order at all times.
2.3.4Fire Extinguisher Inspections
MONTHLY
The portable fire extinguishers are required to be checked monthly. The owner of the business is responsible to select a person to do a monthly inspection. This monthly inspection is called a "quick check".
The QUICK CHECK should check if:
(1)the fire extinguisher is fully charged;
(2)it is in its designated place;
(3)it has not been actuated or tampered with;
(4)there is no obvious or physical damage or condition to prevent its operation.
The information of the monthly inspection record must include the date of the inspection, the name/initials of the person who did the inspection. This monthly quick check record must be kept on the back of the PFE tag or by an approved electronic method that provides a permanent record.
ANNUALLY
At least annually all Portable Fire Extinguishers must be checked by a
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
29 |
|
2.3.5Portable Fire Extinguisher (PFE) Tags
Installed portable fire extinguishers must have an FDNY standard PFE tag affixed. This tag will have important information about the extinguisher. By November 15, 2019, all portable fire extinguishers must have the new PFE tags. The FDNY will only recognize new PFE tags and will be issuing violations to business that have PFE installed without a proper tag.
The color of the fire extinguishers may be changed by the FDNY every few years. The FDNY recommends two ways to verify the tag’s legitimacy:
1.Hologram:
A real hologram strip shown on the tag is 3 inches long by ¼ inch wide. Counterfeit tags will NOT have a high quality silver hologram. The hologram on a counterfeit tag will NOT change color as it is moved against the light.
2.QR code
IF you scan the QR code, it should direct you to the updated FDNY approved fire extinguisher company list. You can use the company list to verify if the company printed on the list is currently approved by the FDNY.
If your PFE tags cannot be verified via these two methods, contact your supervisor. If you suspect your PFE is a counterfeit, contact FDNY immediately by
PFE tag (This tag is released for
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
30 |
|
Fire Department also issues standard outdoor fire extinguisher tags. If the fire extinguishers may be placed outdoors, the COF holder should ask the fire extinguisher suppliers to provide the outdoor fire extinguisher tags for the fire extinguishers.
The special features of the outdoor tags:
1.The material is durable and
2.Different printings:
•On the back of the tag, the series number will contain a “D” letter;
AND/OR
•On the front of the tag, an “O” is printed on the top of the tag (this feature may not be on ALL outdoor tags)
Outdoor PFE tags
This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY. |
31 |
|