A frequent reason for entering confined spaces is to conduct "hot work"– welding, cutting, grinding, etc. But very few regulations or guidebooks address the many fire and explosion hazards that may be present in these operations.

Fortunately, Martin H. Finkel, a Certified Industrial Hygienist and Certified Marine Chemist, has written Guidelines for Hot Work in Confined Spaces. Using a basic, easy-to-follow approach, Finkel shows the safety professional and industrial hygienist how to ensure that hot work is conducted safely in potentially hazardous environments.

This guidebook presents proven, effective techniques for recognizing and correcting the hazards that occur in these situations. Hazards that may be hidden from the casual observer are revealed, so that those tasked with approving welding, cutting, drilling and other hot work operations in confined areas can do so with confidence.

This new printing has been updated to include a change in the standard, new case studies, an additional appendix, and new references.

Martin H. Finkel, CIH, CMC, is Principal, Environmental Safety and Health of Alaska, a training and consulting firm based in Anchorage. He is a Certified Industrial Hygienist and a Certified Marine Chemist. Finkel holds a B.S. in Biology from the University of California, Riverside, and an M.A. in Administration of Environmental Protection Programs from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. He has more than 25 years' experience in safety and industrial hygiene.