Hot Work Permits
Tufts University Fire Safety policy is to (at minimum) comply with the requirements of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code in effect at the time of hot work operations and with Tufts University–specific policies applicable to the intended work operations.
As cited in the Massachusetts requirements:
Hot Work - Work involving burning, welding, or a similar operation that is capable of initiating fires or explosions. Examples include, but are not limited to, welding, cutting, grinding, soldering, heat treating, hot riveting, torch-applied roofing, abrasive blasting, and powder-driven fasteners.
What is the state fire code in Massachusetts?
The state fire code is known as the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code, 527 CMR 1.00. Visit www.mass. gov/dfs and search for 527 CMR 1. The state fire code adopts NFPA 1 (2021 Edition) and includes Massachusetts amendments. Within the code are the appropriate editions of NFPA standards that must be met.
Where can the requirements for hot works be found within the state fire code?
These requirements are found in Chapter 41. This section adopts NFPA 51B – Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting, and Other Hot Work (2019 Edition), which also includes Massachusetts amendments.
Do the personnel involved in hot work need to be trained?
For an individual to be qualified to be a PAI, perform fire watches, perform, supervise, or delegate any activities of hot work they shall have documentation that he or she has successfully completed training approved by the State Fire Marshal.
Tufts University fire safety policy / procedure for Hot Work permission:
This policy applies to ALL Tufts University properties on ALL campuses.
| Activity | Responsible person or team | Action Required | |
| 1 | Evaluate intended hot work and environment where work will be performed. | Service Vendor, or (if agreed) the Project Manager | Notify Tufts University Fire Marshal (TUFM) by email as early as possible prior to the intended start date. Office: 617-627-2745 |
| 2 | Tufts University Fire Marshal evaluates the size/scope of the proposed hot work, including potential need for fire alarm impairment related to the proposed hot work activities. | TUFM or designee | TUFM communicates with the Project Manager or service vendor. If needed, a site visit is held to evaluate the site and needed support activity. |
| 3 | Determine if the proposed hot work will require a Permit from the City agency | TUFM or designee for (Tufts University – issued Hot Work Permits (NFPA format) ONLY. Service Vendor is responsible for City-issued Permits and Fire Details (if any are required). | TUFM evaluates the anticipated scope and type of hot work. If the proposed hot work does NOT require a CITY Permit, the TUFM will issue a “Tufts University Hot Work Permit (NFPA format). If the proposed hot work DOES require a CITY Permit, the Service VENDOR is responsible for obtaining the needed CITY Permit(s). In that same process (City Permit), the Service Vendor will be responsible for obtaining the CITY FIRE DETAIL (if so required). |
| 4 | Email a photocopy of the Hot Work Certification for each person who will be performing hot work or performing “Fire Watch” duties | Service Vendor, or (if agreed) the Project Manager | Snap a photo of the HOT WORK CERTIFICATION card for EACH hot work operator. Fire Department personnel performing fire watch duties are not required to hold the Hot Work certification. |
Barbecue Permits
Outdoor cooking on Tufts property requires a barbecue permit.