What this template includes
This template covers every section of a compliant Hot Works Permit to Work, designed around UK regulatory requirements and the standard expected by insurers and the HSE.
- Permit details — permit number, site, location, contractor, permit holder, issuer, validity period
- Work description — free-text field with scope restriction notice
- Identified hazards — 6 standard Hot Works hazards pre-populated (pre-filled version)
- Safety controls & precautions — 7 standard controls pre-populated (pre-filled version)
- PPE requirements — standard Hot Works PPE pre-populated
- Pre-authorisation safety checks — 6 checkboxes matching PermitDesk smart fields
- Emergency procedure — fire emergency response pre-populated (pre-filled version)
- Authorisation — print name, job title, and signature fields
- Permit holder acknowledgement — print name, company, signature, and date fields
- Post-work inspection record — closure checklist with 7 standard closure checks
- Applicable legislation — DSEAR 2002 and Fire Safety Order 2005
Pre-filled vs blank — which should I use?
The pre-filled version is the best starting point for most uses. It contains the standard hazards, controls, PPE, and emergency procedure for Hot Works as a starting point — you review them, add or remove items to reflect your specific job and site, and fill in the job-specific details. Think of it as an AI-drafted permit you review and adjust, rather than a form you fill in from scratch.
The blank version has all the same sections but with empty fields throughout. Use this if you prefer to populate everything yourself, or if your organisation has its own standard content you want to use.
How to use this template
- Open the .docx file in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. All sections are clearly labelled — fill in or update the pre-populated content to match your specific job and site.
- Fill in the permit details, work description, and validity period for your specific job.
- Review the hazards and controls. Add any site-specific hazards and remove any that don't apply.
- Print and complete the authorisation and acknowledgement sections in person.
- Keep a copy on file. Complete the post-work closure section once work is finished.
Legal requirements for Hot Works
Hot works permits are required under a combination of UK health and safety regulations. The key legislation is the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, both of which require the responsible person to assess and control risks from activities that could cause fire or explosion.
Many property insurers also require compliance with the Fire Protection Association Hot Work Code of Practice, which specifies requirements including a minimum 30-minute post-work fire watch. Failure to use a permit — or failure to follow its conditions — can result in a claim being refused.
→ Read our full guide to Hot Works permits
Want permits without the paperwork?
PermitDesk generates Hot Works permits (and all other PTW types) in seconds — you describe the job in plain English and get a complete, compliant draft in return. Permits are issued digitally, accepted via a link on the permit holder's phone, and stored automatically with a full timestamped audit trail.
No printing, no filing, no chasing signatures. When an inspector asks for records, you can produce them instantly.