Recent wildfires in California highlight how quickly fire can threaten people, property, and construction schedules. Because job-site fires remain a constant risk, contractors should periodically confirm that their risk-management plans address fire exposure and response.
For practical safety guidance and checklists for building sites, see Safety and Health Tips for Construction Sites.
Fire prevention tips for construction sites
- No smoking - Have and enforce a no-smoking policy on the construction site.
- Loss control plan - Maintain a written loss-control plan that addresses fire exposure, lists specific objectives for site management, includes general safety measures, and names a person responsible for on-site safety coordination.
- Inspections and logs - Project managers should do daily on-site inspections of materials, equipment, work areas, and nearby locations with potential hazards. Keep a running log of these inspections.
- Hot works - Cutting, brazing, welding, and other hot-work operations should have a designated observer who maintains a line of sight to watch for sparks, slag, and combustible materials. Inspect surrounding areas for at least 30 minutes after the hot work ends.
- Portable heating equipment - Place portable heaters on non-combustible platforms or flooring, and follow manufacturer specifications and recognized standards for maintenance, fueling, and clearances.
- Enclosures - Build temporary enclosures using non-combustible, approved materials and provide designated paths for transporting materials; locate enclosures away from overhead exposures.
- Flammable materials - Review labeling and identification requirements for gas and flammable-liquid containers before bringing them on site. Designate safe storage areas with surrounding barriers and signs.
- Firefighting equipment - Keep firefighting equipment on-site and readily available. Ensure there is a reliable water supply and that equipment can adapt to local fire-department connections if needed.
- Rooftops - Clean roof vents and lint traps to reduce ignition sources. During rooftop operations, keep at least one portable fire extinguisher at roof level with capacity appropriate to the hazard.
Managing fire risk also means training workers, enforcing procedures, and coordinating with local emergency services; additional operational tips are available in Safety on Construction Job Sites.
If you need help reviewing your project’s coverages or want to discuss site-specific exposures, contact an insurance professional by using the option to ask an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What immediate steps should a crew take after discovering a small fire on site?
Evacuate nonessential personnel, use appropriate extinguishers if it is safe to do so, notify the site safety coordinator, and contact emergency services for anything beyond your control.
How long should an area be monitored after hot-work operations?
Inspect the area and monitor for at least 30 minutes after hot-work operations stop to ensure no smoldering materials ignite later.
Where should flammable liquids be stored on a construction site?
Store flammables in designated, well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources and clearly marked with barriers and signage.