Hot works – FAQ
How long is the hot works certificate valid for?
The Hot Works certificate is valid for 5 years. After expiration, you must take a new course to be re-certified.
How do you renew a certificate for hot works?
To renew the certificate, you must take a new course, including an exam and a new extinguishing exercise.
Can I take a "simpler" recertification course if I have the course from before?
No, you don’t. You must take a new course every 5 years.
Who can instruct and certify the extinguishing exercise for hot works?
The Norwegian Fire Protection Association has a list of all approved instructors in Norway who can sign instructions for conducting practical extinguishing exercises for hot work. You can find the overview here. In addition, employees in the fire service with expertise in conducting practical extinguishing exercises can certify the instructions.
When should you do the extinguishing exercise?
The course and extinguishing exercise must be completed within a period of three (3) months. Documentation of a completed extinguishing exercise must therefore be submitted to the course provider by this deadline.
What kind of certificate do I get for hot works courses?
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 works, the course instructor will report this to the Norwegian Fire Protection Association. As soon as the Norwegian Fire Protection Association has processed the certification, you will receive an SMS 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 works required?
A certificate for hot works is necessary in order to meet the insurance companies’ requirements. In Norway, it is a requirement that people 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 what countries is the Hot Works 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 works. This certificate covers a wide range of hot works. 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 carrying out hot works. One certificate is aimed at roofing, while the other covers hot works excluding 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 June 30, 2023 will be recognized during the remaining validity period. However, as of July 1, 2023, only certified concept owners in accordance with the SBF 2022 standards will be approved. This means that Norwegian certificates issued after July 1, 2023 will not be valid in Sweden. The same applies to Finnish and Danish certificates.
Who needs to take a hot works course?
In Norway, everyone who performs hot work must complete a course in hot works. This applies to self-employed individuals, employees and apprentices. The course requirement applies irrespective of industry or type of business and is set out in section 10-2 of the Regulations on the performance of work.
What is considered hot work?
By hot work we mean work that uses tools or equipment that generate 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 sets 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. The Internal Control Regulations. Regulations on the performance of work.
What's right about hot work risks?
Before performing hot work, you must assess the risk of 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 it happening.
Are angle grinders considered hot work tools?
Yes, angle grinders qualify as hot tools. It can generate powerful sparks that can potentially lead to fires even far away from the actual work area.
Is hot air gun hot work tool?
Yes, hot air guns qualify as hot work tools. Hot air guns use hot air to generate high temperature and this type of tool can pose a fire risk if not used properly.
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. Fire watch is a preventive measure that is implemented to prevent fires and minimize damage in the event of a fire.
