Construction sites are dynamic environments where fire hazards pose significant risks to the safety of workers and the surrounding community. The Society of Fire Protection Engineering recognizes the critical importance of fire safety during construction and the proactive role humans can play in preventing and mitigating fire incidents. Unfortunately, the building construction industry has been grappling with several incidents of fires in wood-framed buildings, which have made headlines in recent times. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of fire safety measures and highlight specific strategies that individuals can employ to ensure construction sites remain safe from fire-related risks.
Updated figures from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) released in November 2022 reveal that between 2016 and 2020, fire departments in the United States responded to an average of 4,800 fires in structures under construction, up from 3,750 from the previous reporting period, 4 civilian deaths and 39 civilian injuries. The staggering annual losses resulting from these construction fires are estimated to cost $472,000,000 dollars.
Leading causes of these massive events are in order of occurrence as follows: cooking equipment at 890 occurrences, Electrical fires at 640, heating equipment at 600, and intentionally set fires at 480. Other potential ignition sources include torches or welding operations, smoking, and exposure to other fires, but because these occurrences are more heavily regulated, their instances and direct property damage assessments are much lower than the first mentioned.
Conducting a thorough fire hazard assessment before commencing any construction project is vital and code required. It involves identifying potential ignition sources such as welding equipment, hot work operations, electrical systems, and flammable substances. Additionally, assessing the presence of combustible materials, temporary wiring, and storage practices is crucial. By gaining insight into the specific fire risks associated with the site, professionals can develop targeted mitigation strategies.
Developing a Comprehensive Fire Safety Plan:
A well-defined fire safety plan must be created and implemented throughout the construction process. This plan should include fire prevention strategies, detection and alarm systems, emergency response procedures, evacuation routes, and communication protocols. Regular training sessions and drills should be conducted to ensure all construction workers are familiar with the plan and prepared to respond effectively in case of a fire emergency. NFPA 241, which is the Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations, provides valuable guidance on implementing a comprehensive plan and should be referenced for all construction projects. Within the construction fire safety plan, it is important to identify a knowledgeable Fire Protection Program Manager (FPPM) who understands the project scope and fire protection/life safety-related matters. The FPPM should be present on-site, and in their absence, an assistant FPPM should be designated.
Implementing Fire Prevention Measures:
Preventing fires at construction sites is of paramount importance. Construction professionals must implement various preventive measures, such as:
Proper storage and handling of flammable materials, ensuring they are stored in designated areas away from ignition sources.
- Regular removal of debris, which can accumulate and act as fuel for fires.
- Effective waste management practices to prevent the accumulation of flammable materials.
- Designating and managing smoking areas to minimize the risk of accidental fires.
- Limit onsite cooking to designated areas.
Managing Temporary Electrical Systems:
Construction sites rely heavily on temporary electrical systems, which can be potential fire hazards if not managed correctly. Professionals should implement safe electrical practices, including:
- Proper grounding of electrical equipment to prevent electrical faults.
- Regular inspection and maintenance of temporary wiring and electrical equipment.
- Adherence to electrical codes and standards to ensure compliance and safe practices.
- Use of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to protect against electrical shock and fires.
- Reducing the charging of lithium ion battery powered tools to areas where the potential for thermal runaway can not impact construction.
Fire Detection and Suppression Systems:
Early fire detection is crucial for minimizing the potential impact of fires. Construction sites should have effective fire detection and alarm systems in place, including:
- Strategically placed smoke detectors, heat detectors, and manual activated stations to quickly identify and alert sitewide of a fire.
- Audio and visual notification placed around the site to provide evacuation alerting for workers required to wear personal protective equipment to protect their hearing.
- Regular testing and maintenance of these systems to ensure their proper functioning, using them for evacuation drills.
- Accessible fire extinguishers located throughout the construction site, properly maintained and easily accessible to workers.
- Standpipe systems, which are typically constructed a few floors below the framing or assembly of the building, taking into account the specific construction type. The system must meet approved standards and include a fire department connection that is readily accessible and identifiable. Before the standpipe system can be utilized, it must undergo hydrostatic testing to ensure its reliability.
- Dry sprinkler systems are being considered as an effective fire suppression measure during construction, particularly in colder environment conditions. These systems utilize pressurized air or nitrogen instead of water until the heating systems are operational, reducing the risk of accidental water damage and supporting fire protection before project completion.
Maintaining Clear Evacuation Routes:
Well-defined and regularly inspected evacuation routes are essential for safe and timely evacuations during fire emergencies. Key considerations include:
- Clear marking of evacuation routes with visible signs and arrows.
- Regular inspection and clearance of evacuation routes to remove obstructions and ensure accessibility.
- Conducting regular drills and training sessions to familiarize workers with evacuation procedures and promote a swift and organized response during emergencies.
- Posted updates on floors when egress routes are changed so they are prepared to use alternate paths.
Effective Communication and Coordination:
Open lines of communication and coordination between all stakeholders involved in the construction project are vital for maintaining fire safety. Key practices include:
- Regular safety meetings to discuss potential fire hazards, preventive measures, and emergency response protocols.
- Timely communication of any changes or updates to the construction site layout, procedures, or potential hazards to all relevant parties.
- Clear communication channels between workers, supervisors, and safety personnel to report and address any fire-related concerns promptly.
Fire safety during construction requires a collective effort and a proactive approach from all parties involved. By recognizing and addressing fire hazards, implementing preventive measures, and maintaining effective communication and coordination, individuals can significantly mitigate fire conditions on construction sites. Adhering to a comprehensive fire safety plan, practicing proper storage and handling of materials, managing temporary electrical systems, installing fire detection and suppression systems, maintaining clear evacuation routes, and fostering open communication channels are essential steps towards ensuring a safe construction environment. By prioritizing fire safety, we can protect lives, minimize property damage, and cultivate a culture of safety within the construction industry. Together, we can create safer construction sites that prioritize the well-being of workers and the surrounding community.