Every year on construction sites in the UK and around the world, there are hundreds of fires. These fires are not just an inconvenience, they are a danger to members of the public and workers as well as a financial burden on the contractor.
It is crucial that managers and safety officers do everything possible to ensure that fires do not break out on the construction site. This means identifying any sources of ignition and fuel where a fire could start, as well as establishing general fire precautions, such as a means of early warning, a route of escape and a method for fighting the fire. These plans will be established based on a fire risk assessment that is carried out by a qualified expert who is trained in safety on construction sites.
Also, if you are performing construction work on buildings that are occupied, such as an office building, it is essential to make sure that the renovations are not interfering with the existing fire safety escape routes from the building. The construction zone should also not interfere with or disable any alarms or sprinkler systems.
Recording, Planning and Training
When you are establishing fire safety there need to be procedures in place for recording dangers, planning for emergencies and training for employees. It is important to keep a record of the actions and the risks taken. Make sure that you make a clear plan for escape in an emergency and rehearse it several times so that everyone understands what they should do when the fire alarm goes off.
Keeping Safety on Construction Sites Up To Date
Once you have established a plan for fire safety, you should review your assessment on a regular basis. Things can change and new risks can be introduced, such as new equipment or materials. Keeping your plan for safety on construction sites as up to date as possible will ensure that you always have your bases covered. It is also crucial that employees receive comprehensive safety training. There is a number of excellent quality fire safety courses offered which will provide your employees with the important information that might save their lives.
Fire: A Danger That Can Have Serious Consequences
Never underestimate the destructive power of fire. It can have serious consequences and can spread through a construction site incredibly quickly. Always ensure that you are doing what you can to promote safety on construction sites and reduce the risk of fire. A suitable training course for individuals with responsibility for fire safety is the NEBOSH Fire Certificate. Fire is an important hazard to consider when planning for safety on construction sites.