For how long must fire watches remain on station?

Fire watches are essential safety measures implemented to monitor areas where there is an increased risk of fire due to potential sources such as hot work or any activities that may ignite a combustible material. The correct answer, which is 30 minutes, is based on best practices established in fire safety protocols.

The rationale for a 30-minute duration is that it provides sufficient time for the fire watch to detect any signs of smoldering or ignition after hot work operations cease. This 30-minute period allows for proper monitoring of the area to ensure that any heat generated or residual sparks do not ignite nearby materials.

Additionally, fire safety guidelines often align with this time frame across various industries and organizations to ensure that firefighters or safety personnel can adequately manage risk in potentially hazardous environments. The emphasis on a 30-minute duration reflects a balance between vigilance and practicality, ensuring safety while avoiding unnecessary resource allocation.