How to prevent a fire on a construction site?

Fires can also occur on a construction site. The whole world saw this in the example of the fire at Notre Dame and the old Copenhagen Stock Exchange. It became obvious to everyone that fire safety measures are of paramount importance.

What can cause a fire?

• A short circuit due to a faulty electrical system;
• Incorrect use of equipment with an open flame;
• Human error, for example, a cigarette butt thrown away in the wrong place;
• A heater located too close to a flammable surface.

Of course, it is impossible to foresee all cases, but it is necessary to take preventive measures to minimize the risk of fire on a construction site.

Let's consider what fire hazard situations can occur and how to protect yourself in each individual case.

Short circuit

A faulty electrical system, including a short circuit, is the most common cause of fires on a construction site. Therefore, all electrical work on the site should be carried out exclusively by professional electricians. Before using electrical networks, they should be checked and potentially dangerous elements should be identified.

Equipment with an open flame

Installations and equipment with an electric arc, sparks or an open flame can cause a fire if used incorrectly. Welding machines and other equipment of this type should only be used by professionals. When performing welding work, it is imperative to follow fire safety rules, since careless use of units with an open flame can lead to a fire or even an explosion.

Human factor (smoking in the wrong place)

If a smoldering cigarette butt is thrown near a flammable object, a fire can start. Smoking on a construction site may be allowed only in a limited area where there are no objects that can catch fire. Cigarette butts and ashes should not accumulate; they should be disposed of in specially designated places.

Heaters on the construction site

In autumn, winter and spring, portable heaters are used at some construction sites to make working conditions more comfortable. But in addition to improving working conditions, heaters also carry the risk of a fire hazard. Therefore, you should carefully assess the suitability of the heater for use on the construction site and its location.

What measures should be taken on the construction site to avoid a fire?

1. Only a qualified electrician should install electrical networks, he should also regularly check and, if necessary, repair and replace electrical equipment.
2. Welding and other work using flame must be carried out strictly according to safety regulations.
3. Smoking on the construction site is allowed only in designated areas where there are no flammable objects.
4. A portable heater may only be used under regulated conditions, as well as work using fire and sparks.

We suggest that you read the thematic article "Safety Rules on the Construction Site".