True or False: A fire watch must always be maintained during any hot work operation.

A fire watch must always be maintained during any hot work operation, making this statement true. The presence of a fire watch is critical because hot work—such as welding, cutting, or grinding—can generate sparks or heat that may ignite combustible materials in the vicinity. The fire watch serves as an additional safety measure to identify and respond to any potential fire hazards immediately.

The responsibilities of a fire watch include monitoring the workspace for signs of fire and having the appropriate firefighting equipment readily available. Depending on the specific regulations and the nature of the work, the fire watch must remain vigilant for the entire duration of the hot work activity and for a designated period afterwards, ensuring that any potential fires can be detected and controlled swiftly.

While there may be variations in requirements based on specific circumstances, the universal principle applied in fire safety during hot work operations is to maintain a fire watch to protect life and property. This comprehensive approach underscores the importance of safety in environments where hot work is conducted.