Fire Extinguishers on Construction Sites: What’s Required
Between 2014 and 2019 there were 1,851 construction site fires in the UK. 62.5% of them were accidental. The impact of some were devastating, putting the lives of workers, firefighters, and members of the public at risk. Destroying property – including important heritage buildings. And costing many hundreds of thousands of pounds. That’s why having the right fire extinguishers on construction sites is not only important, but a legal requirement. Here’s what you need to know.
Why are fire extinguishers required on construction sites?
If you’ve ever worked on a construction site, you’ll already know that they are full of potential hazards. Alongside flammable materials, you have hot works, electrics, portable appliances, and heaters. Not to mention other potential ignition risks, such as employees smoking. A stray spark has the potential to be ruinous. Having the right fire extinguishers on your construction site can help to limit the damage.
What fire extinguishers do you need on a construction site?
Every construction site is different. And this means that every site will have different fire extinguisher requirements. The best way to establish your needs is to conduct a thorough fire risk assessment. And to reassess your construction site on a regular basis as your build progresses.
What are the different types of fire extinguisher?
There are five different type of fire extinguisher, created to tackle the various classes of fire.
- Class A – Solids: wood, plastic, paper, fabrics, soft furnishings, fixtures, or fittings.
- Class B – Flammable liquids: solvents, paints, cleaning fluids, and fuels.
- Class C – Gases: flammable gasses include butane, propane, methane, and LPG.
- Class D – Metals: sodium, or anywhere that metal may act as a conductor.
- Electrical – Anywhere electrical equipment or wiring is present.
- Class F – Cooking fats and oils: probably the least relevant for a construction site.
How many fire extinguishers are needed on a construction site?
Again, because every construction site is different, each will have its own needs. As a general rule, the larger the site, the more fire extinguishers will be required. It is sensible to have at least one CO2 extinguisher and one 9L Water or Foam extinguisher at each fire point. You will need access to extinguishers on every storey of the build. And multiple fire points on each level of larger sites.
Where can you source fire extinguishers for construction sites?
1st Class Fire Protection provides, installs, maintains and services fire extinguishers across Norfolk, Suffolk, and the surrounding areas of Cambridgeshire. We can help you to assess the fire extinguishers needed for your construction site. And we can service and maintain them between builds, or whenever necessary.
Having the right fire extinguishers on construction sites can prevent unnecessary damage, reduce loss, and protect lives. Make sure your site has all the protection it needs.
If your business is based in Norfolk, Suffolk, or the surrounding areas of Cambridgeshire, and you would like support in finding the best fire extinguisher for your construction site, please get in touch with 1st Class Fire Protection today either on 01603 742741 or request a call back with our expert team.
