OSHA 29 CFR 1910.252(d)(1)(v) requires that a fire watch be maintained for at least 30 minutes after welding, cutting, or brazing operations are completed. This is because sparks, slag, and heat from hot work can smolder in combustible materials and ignite a fire after the work has stopped. The fire watch must remain in the area, alert and ready to use extinguishing equipment, for the full 30-minute period.
