What is the primary purpose of fire watch?

The primary purpose of fire watch is to ensure safety during operations that could ignite a fire. This role is crucial when work involving potential fire hazards, such as torch operations, is being conducted. The fire watch is responsible for monitoring the surrounding area to quickly identify any signs of smoke or fire. They are trained to recognize hazardous situations and take prompt action, which can include using fire extinguishing equipment or alerting emergency personnel if a fire arises.

By focusing on safety in these high-risk operations, the fire watch plays an essential role in accident prevention, thereby protecting both the workers and the surrounding environment. This proactive monitoring significantly reduces the likelihood of fire incidents, which could cause injury, property damage, and pose serious risks to life.