OSHA 1910.252 Welding Rules: The 35-Foot Rule and Fire Watch
Sparks from welding and cutting can fly far and start fires that smolder for a long time. OSHA’s general welding and cutting rule is 29 CFR 1910.252. Here are the key parts.
Move it or guard it
If you can, move the work to a safe place. If you cannot, move anything that can burn away from the work. If some things cannot be moved, use guards or covers to block heat, sparks, and slag. If none of that works, do not weld or cut.
The 35-foot rule
Move things that can burn at least 35 feet away when you can. If you cannot, cover them with fire-resistant covers. Sweep floors clean of burnable trash for 35 feet around the work.
Training for 1910.252: Learn this rule step by step in our Welding, Cutting, and Hot Work course. It is included in the Black Belt Safety Vault.
Fire watch
A fire watch is a trained person who looks for fires. You need one when burnable things are within 35 feet, or when sparks could reach them through gaps in walls or floors. The fire watch must have an extinguisher and a way to sound an alarm.
The fire watch stays for at least 30 minutes after the work ends. Fires can start late from hidden sparks.
Permission first
Before hot work outside a set welding area, the person in charge checks the area. They decide what safety steps are needed. A written permit is the best way to do this.
Protect people
- Use a helmet or face shield for arc welding.
- Use goggles for gas welding and torch cutting.
- Use screens to protect people nearby.
- Use fans or exhaust in small rooms and tight spaces. Never use oxygen to air out a space.
What to do next
Our Welding, Cutting, and Hot Work course covers fire watch, permits, and eye safety. Start the course or join the Vault.
This is a plain-language summary. The official rule text is what counts.
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.252, General requirements (welding, cutting, and brazing) – eCFR, National Archives, checked 2026-10-15
Frequently asked questions
What is the 35-foot rule for welding?
Move things that can burn at least 35 feet away when you can. If you cannot, cover them with fire-resistant covers and sweep the floor clean for 35 feet.
When is a fire watch required for welding?
You need one when burnable things are within 35 feet, or when sparks could reach them through gaps in walls or floors.
How long does a fire watch have to stay after welding?
The fire watch stays for at least 30 minutes after the work ends. Fires can start late from hidden sparks.
Do you need a hot work permit?
Before hot work outside a set welding area, the person in charge checks the area and decides the safety steps. A written permit is the best way to do this.