Some early information concerning updates and development directions in Hot Work Certification and Hot Work Safety Training in Finland. Hot work certificate training will have some changes with the training material and also other practical changes. Here is some information about it
Introduction
Hot work training is an essential part of occupational safety in Finland, especially in fields where welding, cutting, grinding, or other heat- or spark-producing tasks are performed. Proper training ensures that employees understand the risks associated with hot work and know how to prevent fires and accidents. In recent years, several changes and updates have been made to hot work training and requirements in Finland. This overview provides a summary of these updates, their impacts, and guidance for organizations and individuals seeking certification.
Overview of Hot Work Training in Finland
Currently, practically mandatory Hot Work training was introduced in 1988, as the year before the number of major fires caused by hot work was shockingly high—nearly 40%.
Traditionally, hot work training in Finland focuses on ensuring that workers have the knowledge and skills needed to safely perform high-risk tasks. The training covers fire prevention, safe working methods, emergency response, and legal requirements. After completing the training, participants receive the Hot Work Certificate (or Hot work card), which certifies their competence to perform hot work in specified temporary hot work sites. Today, the number of major fires caused by hot work has dropped to approximately annual 0–5%, although the financial losses per fire are now significantly higher.
Hot work training materials and training practices are updated regularly, and the renewed materials for Hot Work Card Training will be introduced in 2026. The reasons include changes and clarifications in safety regulations as well as general development of the training. The certification is valid for 5 years, which naturally affects the need to update the materials. This ensures that even those renewing their Hot Work Card after several years receive a fresh training experience. TVA Trainings has organized around 600 Hot Work Card courses for several thousand participants. With some clients, we have already met even 4-5 times during last 20 years. It is actually quite fun to meet people in different environments and projects. Just had a training recently in Eurajoki when one guy came to say hi and that we met in Stockholm 2 years ago, Or in Krakow where there where some guys I’d met previously in a project near Porvoo and, and, and…Small world and all that.
As a trainer it is important that material evolves regularly and participants receive updated information so training session is not just based on same tired humour and same old jokes.
Key Changes in Hot Work Card Training
- Hot work standards SFS 5900 and SFS 5991 are being updated next time in the next 2–3 years, and the training aims to take these upcoming changes into account already at this stage. Additional updates will naturally follow, especially after the standards are officially revised.
- Digitalization of training and certification – An electronic exam system will be introduced alongside the traditional method. This will save time as feedback about passing the exam is immediate and there is no lag caused by the traveling and possibly plane catching safety trainer.
- Digital Hot Work Cards will become more common, making it easier to verify and renew qualifications. You don’t have to carry that card in your wallet, you have it on your phone.
- Updated curriculum and safety recommendations
- The training will make better use of digital learning environments, allowing simulation of various hot work scenarios in different settings.
- The Hot Work Permit form has been updated.
- Training materials have been completely renewed and are more illustrative than before.
- The training content has been updated to reflect new safety regulations and best practices. There is broader coverage of risk assessment, the use of modern extinguishing equipment, and updated emergency procedures. These updates aim to address new risks in modern work environments, including new materials and technologies.
- The visual material is now more illustrative.
- Stricter requirements for trainers and training providers
Authorities have introduced stricter criteria for both organizations offering training and individuals acting as trainers. Trainers must now meet updated qualification requirements and have relevant experience, and training providers are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with standards. - Greater emphasis on practical skills assessment
Although theoretical knowledge remains important, more focus is now placed on assessing practical skills during training. Participants must demonstrate their ability to identify hazards, use firefighting equipment, and follow safe working practices in simulated situations. - Card renewal and continuous learning
The Hot Work Card must be renewed regularly, typically every five years. Recent changes encourage continuous learning by offering refresher courses and updated training content, helping employees stay informed about safety developments and regulatory changes.
Impact on Employers and Employees
Employers must ensure that all workers involved in hot work have completed up-to-date training and hold a valid qualification. With the changes to the training and requirements, organizations should review their internal procedures for tracking employee certifications and arranging refresher courses. One big change is also that unfortunately in the future it seems that Finnish Hot work card issued after 1.1.2026 is for Finland only and Norwegian or Danish Hot work trainings will not be directly accepted as equivalent. Sweden let go of this co-operational agreement already on 2023 and this is likely just a continuum for that progress.
Conclusion
The changes in hot work training in Finland demonstrate a strong commitment to improving occupational safety and utilizing modern technology. Digitalization, updated training content, and an increased focus on practical competence raise the safety standards for hot work to a high level. Both organizations and individuals must ensure they maintain valid qualifications and follow the latest guidelines to guarantee safe working conditions.
In case you need to renew your hot work permit, see our hot work card training details here.
