Well put.

I do agree it is a massive CYA for liability but when your plants force a full time dedicate fire watch to your activities its not due to shavings and slurry run off.

I don't have 15 years experience but have been kicked out of several plants for not obtaining a "hot work permit" prior to conducting work that could create any type of spark or even the illusion that a spark might be generated.

These industrial plants are littered with highly flammable material. I'm not saying these are all accidents but they are certainly more susceptible to fires. Knowing the standard accident rates would clear everything up.