Understanding the most common causes of fires in construction regions allows site managers and workers to take preventative measures through proactive actions. Thus, construction sites can successfully limit the potential devastation fires could cause if they prioritize fire protection methods and cultivate a culture of safety awareness.
(Photo : Unsplash/Issy Bailey)
1. Flammable Materials
The majority of businesses make use of flame-resistant materials to prevent fire threats. When a fire breaks out in the vicinity, however, scaffolding, roof coverings, and waste can fuel the flames. Moreover, flames emanating from electrical devices and a lack of combustible fuels can combine to spell catastrophe. Keeping a site free of clutter is crucial. The trash storage should take place in a secure, well-protected location and away from any ignition sources. Sparks can travel a long distance, so keeping all fuels away from electrical operations is essential. Avoid throwing trash onto a campfire you have built since it can rapidly go out of control.
2. Flawed Fire Protection Measures
Based on the statistics compiled by the Home Office between 2014 and 2019, 62.5% of building site fires were caused by accidents. Compliance and training are essential components in reducing the likelihood of human mistakes. Ensuring that all fire safety procedures, guidelines, and standards are followed is the responsibility of the site's safety manager or the authorized responsible person. As mentioned, they are responsible for ensuring that all fire protection equipment is routinely maintained and that a thorough fire risk assessment is conducted at the location to reduce the likelihood of fires.
3. Power Sources
Electrical faults can develop on a building site for a variety of reasons, including the removal of existing wires, the installation of new electrical fittings, the powering of generators and cordless equipment, and others. If the appropriate precautions are not taken, several potential mistakes can occur. Control the quality! In compliance with the applicable rules, all electrical installations must be evaluated in great detail and put through PAT testing.
Also Read: 6 Strategies to Keep Construction Workers Productive and Warm on Chilly Sites
4. Human Error
Human mistakes are a common contributor to the causes of fires, which is unsurprising given the large number of people who frequently utilize the workplace daily. Without the appropriate training, accidents are likely to occur for various reasons, including improper use of equipment, failure to notify malfunctioning machinery, and even the simple act of leaving food to cook without supervision. Every team member ought to receive some fundamental training in fire safety to guarantee that the appropriate protocols are followed if any concerns are discovered.
5. Arson
This type of fire accounts for a significant proportion of all fires on commercial property and can have catastrophic effects on a business operation. Reduce this danger by installing CCTV and motion-sensor lights and restricting access to permitted personnel. Even if your building is the target of an arson attack, the extent of the damage will be mitigated by the installation of safety measures such as fire sprinklers.
6. Welding and Cutting Operations
The construction industry is a whole of typical jobs, such as welding and cutting, which can cause fires if not carried out appropriately. Inflammable materials, such as insulation, timber beams, and paper goods, can be ignited by sparks and hot metal pieces generated during welding. When oxygen and fuel gasses like acetylene and propane are used, this can further increase the likelihood of a fire breaking out. Accordingly, workers must be adequately trained in fire prevention and control to prevent fires during welding and cutting operations. Nevertheless, fire-resistant materials and fire extinguishers must be easily accessible as preventive measures.
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