Fire safety: Jobsite fire safety tips

Fire poses a serious threat to people and property in construction. Understanding the primary causes of construction fires, and adhering to basic safety measures, can help protect you and your jobsite from fire hazards.

Jobsite fire safety tips:

• Cooking: Cooking was the leading cause of fires on construction sites.¹ Avoid using hot plates, grills or any other improvised heating device for cooking. Consider a dedicated cooking area, outside any structure, which is the proper distance from combustibles.
• Electrical distribution and lighting:
  
  • Report any electrical hazards or non-compliance with NFPA 70 – National Electric Code.
  • Inspect electrical cords to ensure they are in good condition.
  • Avoid overloading circuits or daisy chaining electrical cords.
• Hot work (grinding, cutting, welding, brazing, etc.). 
  • Seek alternatives to hot work when possible.
  • If hot work is necessary, follow a strict hot work permit process including critical components such as performing a fire watch and having the necessary fire suppression equipment.
• Temporary Heaters:
  • Use only approved temporary heaters and only those that carry listings by third party listing organization such as, UL, ETL, CSA.
  • Choose heaters with automatic shutoffs and tip-over protection.
  • Place heaters on hard, level and non-combustible surfaces.
  • Maintain clearances and follow manufacturer instructions.
  • Keep tarpaulins away from heaters to prevent falling on or blowing into heaters.
• Smoking: Prohibit smoking on the jobsite or limit it to designated areas away from combustibles outlined by the Fire Prevention Program Manager and the Controlling Contractor.
• Combustible Materials: Regularly pick up and dispose of combustibles on the jobsite. Store refuse and excess combustibles a safe distance from structures.
• Flammable Liquids: Limit the use and amount stored flammable liquids on the jobsite. If flammable liquids must be used, only store in approved containers.

Why it matters

From 2017-2021, Fire Departments responded to an estimated average of 4,440 fires in structures under construction per year. These incidents resulted in an average of, 5 civilian deaths, 59 injuries and $370 million in direct property damage each year.¹ By following these basic fire safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire on your jobsite.