Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the detection and recording of the weak points or defects on hot semifinished iron and steel industry products, by application of the flame of an oxygen-supplied blowtorch to the surface to be examined, displacing the application point along the surface, picking up the image of the application point by video camera, and transmitting the image to a remote location. An observer viewing this screen can make a map of the surface examined, recording thereon the weak points or defects detected both by their dimensions and by their type. This process finds application in the hot treatment of the slabs, blooms, and steel rods, when the casting, defect repair and rolling operations are to be carried out continuously.