Fire Watch
Fire Watch is a critical safety role in demolition and construction projects. It involves having dedicated personnel who monitor work areas for potential fire hazards, especially during and after activities that could cause fires (like cutting metal or welding). These workers are responsible for ensuring that any sparks or heat sources don't lead to fires, and they stay on site even after work stops to make sure no hidden embers develop into fires. Think of them as safety guards whose main job is preventing and quickly responding to any fire-related emergencies.
Examples in Resumes
Performed Fire Watch duties during hot work operations on multiple demolition projects
Certified Fire Watch personnel with 3 years of experience in construction sites
Led Fire Watch teams during large-scale industrial demolition projects
Typical job title: "Fire Watch Personnel"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Fire Watch Personnel
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up a Fire Watch program for a large demolition project?
Expected Answer: They should explain creating schedules, assigning roles, establishing communication protocols, and coordinating with emergency services. Should mention training requirements and documentation procedures.
Q: What emergency response procedures would you implement as a Fire Watch supervisor?
Expected Answer: Should discuss evacuation plans, communication systems, coordination with local fire departments, and regular drills. Should mention documentation and reporting procedures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key things you monitor during a Fire Watch shift?
Expected Answer: Should mention watching for sparks, checking temperature of hot surfaces, monitoring wind conditions, ensuring fire extinguishers are accessible, and checking for combustible materials in the area.
Q: How long do you typically maintain a Fire Watch after hot work is completed?
Expected Answer: Should know standard monitoring periods (usually minimum 30-60 minutes after work ends), factors that might extend this time, and documentation requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for Fire Watch duty?
Expected Answer: Should list basic safety equipment like fire-resistant clothing, safety glasses, hard hat, and knowledge of how to use fire extinguishers.
Q: What would you do if you spotted a fire starting?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic emergency response: raising alarm, attempting to contain small fires if safe, calling emergency services, and evacuating area if necessary.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic fire safety knowledge
- Use of fire extinguishers
- Understanding of evacuation procedures
- Basic PPE usage
Mid (1-3 years)
- Hot work monitoring
- Emergency response procedures
- Communication protocols
- Safety equipment maintenance
Senior (3+ years)
- Team supervision
- Safety program development
- Training coordination
- Emergency response management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No fire safety certification or training
- Unable to explain basic emergency procedures
- Lack of physical stamina for long observation periods
- Poor communication skills
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