Preventing Construction Site Fires: Identifying Common Causes and Effective Fire Safety Tips
Fires on construction sites are quite common and can quickly escalate due to the abundance of flammable materials typically present, leading to costly destruction and loss.
Fires on construction sites are quite common and can quickly escalate due to the abundance of flammable materials. According to the NFPA, from 2017 to 2021, local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 4,440 fires in structures under construction each year, resulting in five civilian deaths, 59 civilian injuries, and $370 million in direct property damage. This highlights the critical need for effective fire prevention and protection measures on the job site.
Routine equipment checks can save both money and lives. For example, frayed extension cords are among the most prevalent causes of construction site fires. A seemingly minor oversight, but if left unaddressed, this can lead to dire consequences; sparks from an unnoticed and fraying cord can ignite fires that spread rapidly, posing significant risks to human life and causing extensive damage to property on the project site.
Generally, fires in commercial construction result from one or more of the following:
Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and electrical equipment malfunctions.
Malfunctioning / Poorly maintained Heating Systems: Portable fuel and electric heaters that spark or overheat.
Faulty Mechanical Equipment: Malfunctioning machinery or equipment motors, generators, or frayed power cords.
Welding and Hot Work: Welding, cutting, soldering, or other hot work activities can create sparks that smolder and eventually spread.
Combustible Materials: Improper storage or handling of flammable substances such as solvents, chemicals, or combustible materials like paper, cardboard, or textiles can lead to fires.
Smoking: Improperly discarded cigarettes or smoking in prohibited areas.
Arson: Intentional acts of arson, whether motivated by vandalism, insurance fraud, or other reasons.
Improperly Installed Fire Protection Systems: Inadequate or improperly installed fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, or fire extinguishers can fail to contain a fire in its early stages.
MITIGATING FIRE HAZARDS: INSTILLING FIRE SAFETY PROGRAMS WITH ACTIVE AND PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION ON THE CONSTRUCTION SITE
With the ever-evolving improvements in construction safety, knowing how to avoid fire hazards is the best way to overcome potential risks and challenges on a job site. Construction sites frequently amass wood, insulation, and various construction materials, heightening the risk of fire when left near potential ignition sources. It’s important not only to acquire fire-resistant materials but also to plan and prioritize fire safety practices to include:
Fire Safety Program
Create a Fire Safety Program for Employees and Workers to include:
Training of onsite personnel in fire hazard identification and prevention.
Emergency response procedures in case of fire, including evacuation, exits, and emergency procedures.
Training for proper use of firefighting equipment such as extinguishers and implementing customized measures based on the materials found at the job site. This includes understanding fire extinguisher types based on fire class, fuel type, and suppression techniques, according to the NFPA.
Accurately label storage containers, specifying the materials contained within and potential risks they pose and providing emergency contact details. Regularly inspect containers for leaks, damages, or improper storage methods.
Regular inspection and maintenance of systems and machinery.
Maintain and store materials away from potential fire hazards are essential preventive measures to mitigate risks effectively. Regularly inspect the site to ensure safety.
Maintain a clean and well-organized workspace with designated hot work, welding zones, and smoking areas.
Regularly remove and dispose of waste properly, as it can be flammable. Use fire-retardant receptacles to prevent the spread of fire.
Ensure the building has adequate lightning protection systems.
Ensure the site is secure from vandalism with fencing, surveillance cameras, and/or security personnel.
Passive Fire Protection
Confirm that structural steel has specified fireproofing installed and inspected.
Confirm that all structural wood fire rated assemblies have fire retardant treatment that includes code compliant stamp identification.
Active Fire Protection
Implement Fire Prevention measures. Fire alarms, smoke detectors, strategically placed fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems significantly reduce the risk of fires and minimize their potential impact.
GLOBAL FIREPROOF SOLUTIONS – SAFEGUARDING YOUR SITE FROM THE START
The best way to de-escalate the risk of fires on a construction site is to utilize fire-retardant wood treatments, intumescent coatings for fireproofing steel beams, coatings, insulation, and other materials that comply with industry standards. Through collaboration with Global Fireproof Solutions, property owners and developers attain peace of mind knowing their buildings meet the utmost standards of passive fire protection. We effectively address each project's requirements by offering customized solutions throughout the Southeastern United States, from fire-resistant coatings to field-applied treatments. Committed to quality, reliability, and innovation, Global Fireproof Solutions is your trusted ally in passive fire safety.
In summary, mitigating the risk of fires in commercial construction requires a multifaceted approach encompassing adherence to building codes, regular maintenance of equipment, thorough employee training, and implementing appropriate fire prevention measures. By prioritizing fire safety throughout the construction process and the ongoing operation of commercial buildings, the risk of fires can be significantly reduced, safeguarding lives and property. Utilizing fire-retardant materials from Global Fireproof Solutions from the start of construction minimizes the risk of damages not just through the construction build job but throughout the life of the finished product.