Construction Fire Risks

Various kinds of dangers are present in a building construction site. Accidents and injuries are not uncommon in this nature of work. Aside from that, there is also the risk of construction fires that you have to worry about. In the UK, there is an average of 11 construction fires every day. These tragedies are not only financially devastating on the owners but more importantly, dangerous and fatal to the workers and employees. This is why, it is imperative to undertake the necessary measures on construction fire safety to prevent this kind of tragedy from occurring.

Here are some of the things that are needed to be undertaken as part of construction fire protection plan.

Store Flammable Materials in Secure Places

Cylinders that contain flammable materials like Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) should be stored in a safe place, ideally one that is securely locked and has sufficient ventilation. Proper storage is also required for solvents and adhesives, which should be kept in steel containers in locked areas. Never leave any LPG tank on if not in use. Many site huts have exploded due to LPG cylinders left open. Always check these tanks for leaks and immediately stop use. Never check it using naked flames. Instead, use soapy water or sense of smell. Also, avoid burning waste materials on site. Do not use petrol or other flammable liquids to start a fire.

Install the Right Fire Safety Devices

It is not wise to wait until the construction is over before fire safety equipment is installed in the area. Fire alarm system, fire blankets, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms should be well in place to combat fire and alert people about emergency situation when there is a fire breakout. The number of fire extinguishers would primarily depend on the size of the site. Powder and AFFF fire extinguishers are ideal to use for this type of area since these devices are ideal for putting out fires that involve flammable liquids. Powder can also tackle fires that originate from flammable gases and solid organic materials like wood, clothing, and paper. It would also be a good idea to install automatic fire extinguishers in places that are not usually occupied by people.

Train and Inform Construction Employees

It is a must to have the construction workers undergo trainings and seminars on fire safety and protection guidelines. They should be well aware of the measures on fire prevention and the proper usage of firefighting equipment such as the fire extinguisher. It is also a must to formulate an emergency evacuation plan that workers should know about so they would know what to do and how to escape the premises in case of a fire accident.

Making a construction site fire proof may not be possible with all the fire hazards present in the place. However, you can ensure that the risks for this kind of tragedy is reduced by installing the right safety devices, increasing awareness on the workers, and storing the flammable materials in secure and safe places.