At 1910.252(a)(2)(xiii), OSHA says, “Management shall recognize its responsibility for the safe usage of cutting and welding equipment on its property and:
(A) Based on fire potentials of plant facilities, establish areas for cutting and welding, and establish procedures for cutting and welding, in other areas .... ”
Therefore, management may establish “hot work areas” suitable for cutting and welding, which do not require a hot work permit to be issued each time hot work is performed. An employer may establish welding areas or a weld shop that is exempt from hot work permits. Such areas should be placarded as areas where welding or cutting are being done, or that are restricted.