Why this matters
A construction site fire can destroy a 12-month project in a few hours. Site fires also frequently spread to neighbouring buildings causing third-party damage and potential prosecution. Insurance excesses on site fires are typically GBP 25,000+.
Key hazards and controls
Hazard 1: Hot works (welding, grinding, cutting) near combustibles
Control: Permit-to-work system, hot work risk assessment, fire watch for 1 hour after work ends
Hazard 2: Temporary electrics with overloaded circuits
Control: PAT testing of all temporary equipment, RCD protection, no daisy-chain extensions
Hazard 3: Combustible insulation and decoration materials
Control: Storage in dedicated areas away from hot works. Smoke detection in storage
Hazard 4: Smoking on site
Control: Designated smoking areas only. No smoking in or near combustible materials
Hazard 5: Site office fires from electrical faults
Control: Smoke detection, fire extinguishers, regular electrical inspection
Key messages
- 1.Hot works are the biggest cause of preventable construction fires
- 2.Permits, fire watch, and post-work monitoring are not optional
- 3.Combustible storage and hot works do not mix
- 4.Know where the nearest extinguisher is at all times
- 5.On the move? Make sure you can escape from where you are working
Signs of trouble (for supervisors)
Things to spot during site walks that suggest the message has not landed:
- !Hot works happening without a permit
- !Combustible materials stored next to welding bays
- !Fire extinguishers blocked or not accessible
- !Smoke detectors disabled or covered up
- !Fire exit routes blocked with materials
Questions to ask workers
Use these in your daily walkrounds and toolbox talks:
- Q.Where are the fire extinguishers in your work area?
- Q.What is your escape route if there's a fire?
- Q.Do you have a hot works permit for what you are doing today?
- Q.Where is the designated smoking area?
- Q.Who is the fire warden on this shift?
UK legislation
- SSRegulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
- SSHealth and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
- SSCDM 2015
- SSConstruction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Want this talk customised to your trade?
Complys generates trade-specific toolbox talks in 30 seconds, with phone sign-off for workers and PDF records kept automatically. Free 90-day trial.