The F-02 Certificate of Fitness for Torch Operations is issued by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and is required for anyone performing hot work using open-flame torches in buildings or on rooftops across New York City. Unlike the F-01 certificate, which covers fire watch duties in sprinklered buildings, the F-02 certificate specifically qualifies holders to supervise torch operations — such as plumbing, roofing, and welding work — where an open flame or high-heat source creates a direct ignition risk.
Our free downloadable PDF includes practice questions that mirror the FDNY exam format. Print the PDF at home or at your local library, study the questions and answers at your own pace, and arrive at your test-site appointment fully prepared. The questions cover hot work permits, fire watch procedures, extinguisher requirements, hazardous-material awareness, and post-work inspection duties — all core topics on the real F-02 examination.
The FDNY issues several Certificates of Fitness under its Fireguard program. The F-01 certificate qualifies a holder to perform fire watch in buildings protected by an automatic sprinkler system — for example, during temporary impairments to the sprinkler. The F-02 certificate, by contrast, is specific to torch operations, covering situations where open flames from soldering torches, roofing torches, or welding equipment create an elevated ignition risk. Exam questions frequently test whether candidates know which certificate applies to a given work scenario, so understanding the boundary between these two credentials is essential.
Before any torch operation begins, a hot work permit must be obtained from the property owner or their authorized representative. The permit documents the specific location of the work, the type of torch or heat-producing equipment being used, the scheduled start and stop times, and the fire-prevention measures that will be in place. The F-02 certificate holder on site is responsible for verifying that the permit is valid, that it covers the exact work area, and that all conditions listed on the permit are being met. Working without a valid permit — or allowing work to extend beyond the permitted area — is a violation that can result in permit revocation and FDNY enforcement action.
The fire watch is the continuous monitoring responsibility assigned to the F-02 certificate holder while hot work is in progress. During fire watch, the certificate holder must remain within the work area at all times, keep all combustible materials at least 35 feet away from the torch operation or shield them with fire-resistant covers, maintain clear access to portable fire extinguishers and standpipe hose connections, and immediately extinguish any sparks or smoldering materials that ignite. The certificate holder must not perform any other duties that would distract from fire watch responsibilities.
FDNY regulations require at least one portable fire extinguisher rated no lower than 2-A:20-B:C to be present at every torch operation. The extinguisher must be fully charged, within its inspection date, and positioned within 30 feet of the work area. For roofing torch operations, fire blankets and heat-resistant spark shields are required to protect roof membranes, drainage assemblies, and any adjacent combustible surfaces. The F-02 exam tests candidates on minimum extinguisher ratings, blanket placement rules, and conditions under which additional extinguishers are required — for example, when work is performed in a confined space or adjacent to a fuel-gas line.
Hot spots and smoldering materials can ignite fires long after a torch has been extinguished. FDNY regulations require the F-02 certificate holder to maintain an active fire watch for a minimum of 30 minutes after all torch operations are completed. In situations where work was performed on or near combustible roof assemblies, insulation, or structural wood members, the fire watch period extends to 60 minutes. During this post-work period, the certificate holder must physically inspect the entire work area, including above and below any surface where the torch was applied, checking for smoke, heat, or discoloration that may indicate hidden smoldering.
Before torch operations begin, the certificate holder must survey the work area for hazardous materials — including flammable gases, aerosol containers, solvents, and any substance with a flash point below 140°F. If hazardous materials cannot be removed from the area, torch work must not begin until written approval is obtained from the building owner and, in certain cases, the FDNY. Notification requirements also include informing building management of the planned hot work at least 24 hours in advance and ensuring that the building's fire alarm system is not inadvertently impaired during the operation. Any fire alarm activations during the work period must be reported to the FDNY immediately.
Prefer to study in your browser? Our F-02 Fireguard practice test delivers timed, scored quiz sessions with instant answer explanations — ideal for identifying weak areas before your FDNY appointment.