Construction site fire risk assessments are a legal requirement to prevent undue dangers to people and property. They help to ensure that all projects have been considered in terms of fire safety, from start to finish.
Five key steps in fire risk assessments for construction sites
A fire risk assessment Gloucester or elsewhere can be carried out by companies such as https://apmfireandsecurity.com/fire-risk-assessment/gloucester, and will include the following five steps.
Identifying fire hazards
This means identifying anything on the site which may cause a fire, including flammable materials, potential ignition points, and heat sources.
Determining who could be harmed
This involves identifying everyone on a site who might be affected if a fire started, including members of the public close by, visitors, contractors and workers.
Evaluating risks and implementing controls
Hazards are identified and then the likelihood of a fire starting is assessed, looking at what harm this could cause. Fire protection measures should then be implemented to reduce the identified risks.
Recording findings and implementing an emergency plan
Significant findings should be recorded and an emergency plan created. Everyone on a site should then receive appropriate fire safety information and training.
Reviewing and updating
There is a need to regularly review and update fire risk assessments to reflect the current project status. Site conditions change over time and any new or different hazards need to be identified and acted upon. More information on fire safety in construction can be found on the Health and Safety Executive website
Potential fire hazards on construction sites
Hot works can present a serious fire hazard on construction sites, including activities such as grinding, cutting, and welding. There is also the potential for an abundance of flammable materials to be present, including chemicals, insulation and wood.
Temporary electrical installations can also pose a fire risk. This can be due to overloaded or faulty electrical equipment, temporary lighting, or generators. Debris and waste are also potential hazards, presenting a risk of fires starting and spreading.