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The following are factors that contribute to construction sites being at high risk for fire hazards. Keep in mind that construction site safety practices are the best way to lessen the risk of potential fire hazards.
- You typically find flammable or explosive materials like solvents and gases on site
- Electrical systems are incomplete or not installed properly
- Work activities include hot work processes
- There is a presence of potentially flammable waste materials
- Higher risk for trespassing and vandalism, including arson
- The building is left in an unfinished state
- Storage of flammable building materials on site
- Smoking on site by workers
High Rise Security Systems is a team of experienced fire safety specialists in the Chicagoland area offering fire safety consulting services from concept to design completion for your commercial building. HRSS provides a full scope of services in fire and life safety to ensure that your occupants and property are safe and secure.
Fire Safety Tips for Construction Sites
It is not possible to have a construction site be completely free of fire hazards, but some steps can be taken to decrease that risk.
- Making sure workers are properly trained on safe work practices
- Using flame retardant products whenever possible
- Eliminating discarded trash from the site
- Keeping combustible materials away from the construction site
- Ensuring equipment is all working properly
- Reducing the use of heaters in areas that pose a high risk for fire
- Electrical work meets standards for building and fire codes
- Enforcing a strict no-smoking policy
- Having accessible fire extinguishers throughout the site
- Properly training workers on how to use fire extinguishers
Fire Extinguisher Use on Construction Sites
Fire extinguishers will be your first go-to line of defense if you find yourself on a construction site dealing with a worksite fire. Therefore, it is imperative that you know how to use a fire extinguisher properly and that you have the correct type and quantity located in the right place on site.
It is extremely important not to block access to fire extinguishers with debris or equipment; easy access is crucial. Additional tips on fire extinguisher use include:
- Stay calm and ensure you alert others of the fire
- Call 9-1-1 and alert site management
- Use the PASS method while using your fire extinguisher:
- PULL the pin on the handle and stand back 8-10 ft from the fire itself
- AIM nozzle of fire extinguisher to the base of the fire
- SQUEEZE the handle on the fire extinguisher
- SWEEP the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire (sweeping motion)
- Make sure you are combatting the fire with the wind, so you do not breathe in extinguisher agents
- Keep proceeding on your evacuation route in case you are unable to put the fire out
- If the fire requires the use of more than two extinguishers to put out, evacuate immediately and wait for emergency responders
- Make sure you are using the type of extinguisher that correlates to the type of fire that broke out; extinguishers are labeled for their type of fire effectiveness
Implementing Other Security Measures
Unfortunately, there are people out there who commit criminal acts such as arson and vandalism, and this could have devastating consequences for your construction site and property. One option for added protection is to install a perimeter fence around the construction site to keep trespassers out, especially during non-working hours.
The installation of security cameras that are strategically placed around the property is also a good and cost-effective option if hiring security personnel is not an option for you.
HRSS provides comprehensive commercial fire and life safety systems with the application of integrated solutions by experienced designers and engineers. Our team can work with you to assess the best fire and life safety system for your business needs. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive fire and life safety solutions.