The Safety Line: Construction Site Fire Safety

The Safety Line is a series designed to keep you up to date with the latest Health and Safety and Building Safety updates. In this issue, we focus on fire safety on construction sites, an area where compliance isn’t optional, and the risks are very real.

Why fire safety matters
Fire safety is required under the Building Safety Act, Building Regulations, Fire Safety Order, and CDM Regulations. More importantly, it’s about protecting people and projects from real risks.

Construction Site Fire Safety – Key points for duty holders and project teams:

✅ Current Fire Risk Assessment and Evacuation Plan
Every site must have a valid fire risk assessment and evacuation plan. These documents should be regularly reviewed and updated as your project develops, for example, when new temporary structures are added, materials change, or work phases are adjusted. Having an up-to-date plan ensures that all workers understand the procedures to follow in the event of a fire and that emergency services have clear, accurate information.

✅ Competence matters
Appointing a properly trained and experienced fire risk assessor is essential. A competent assessor will understand the specific hazards of construction sites, such as hot works, temporary electrics, and storage of flammable materials. Knowing what ‘competent’ looks like in practice is critical, it means someone who can identify risks, recommend practical control measures, and communicate guidance to the wider project team. To find out the requirements of a competent assessor click here

✅ Consider fire risks early
Fire safety should be factored in from the very start of a project. Duty holders and Principal Designers need to consider risks when choosing materials, construction methods, and phasing, and when planning high-risk activities like hot works. Early consideration helps prevent incidents, reduces the need for costly retroactive changes, and ensures fire safety measures are built into the overall project plan.

Where to start:

1. Check whether your construction sites have an up-to-date Fire Risk Assessment and evacuation plan.
2. Review who is completing these assessments and challenge their competence if needed.
3. Make sure fire risk is considered at the design stage, not left until later.

In summary
Fire safety starts long before a building is occupied. It should be designed, planned, and actively managed throughout construction. Taking a proactive approach protects people, reduces disruption, and supports compliance with legal obligations.

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