Which of the following is a key safety practice in any hot work environment?

The key safety practice in any hot work environment is removing combustible items. In such settings, like welding or cutting operations, the risk of fire is significantly increased due to sparks and heat generated. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all combustible materials, such as paper, wood, chemicals, or flammable liquids, are cleared away from the work area. This proactive measure greatly reduces the chance of accidental ignition and helps maintain a safe working environment.

In contrast, wearing any type of clothing can be hazardous if the clothing is inappropriate for the task, as it may not provide adequate protection from heat, sparks, or flames. Ignoring safety protocols clearly contradicts the very essence of a safe working environment and would only increase the risk of accidents. Lastly, while using multipurpose tools may be beneficial for efficiency, it does not specifically address safety in a hot work setting and might even pose additional risks if the tools are not rated for high-temperature applications. Removing combustibles remains the most effective practice to prevent fire hazards in hot work zones.