Construction Site Fire Risk Assessment: Requirements & Template

Construction sites present unique fire risks that don't exist in permanent buildings. With temporary electrical installations, hot work operations, flammable materials, and constantly changing conditions, fire risk assessment on construction sites requires a specific approach that differs from standard workplace assessments.

This guide explains the legal requirements for construction site fire risk assessments in the UK, walks you through the assessment process, and identifies the common fire hazards you need to address.

What is a Construction Site Fire Risk Assessment?

A construction site fire risk assessment is a systematic evaluation of fire hazards present on a construction site and the measures needed to eliminate or control those risks. Unlike assessments for completed buildings, construction site assessments must account for constantly changing conditions as the project progresses.

The assessment identifies:

• Sources of ignition (hot work, electrical equipment, smoking)
• Fuel sources (construction materials, waste, flammable liquids)
• People at risk (workers, visitors, neighbouring properties)
• Existing control measures and their effectiveness
• Emergency evacuation arrangements

Legal Requirements in the UK

Construction site fire risk assessments are required under two main pieces of legislation:

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

The Fire Safety Order applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales, including construction sites. It requires the 'responsible person' (typically the principal contractor) to:

• Carry out a fire risk assessment
• Implement appropriate fire safety measures
• Provide fire safety training
• Ensure adequate means of escape
• Review the assessment regularly

Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015

CDM 2015 requires that fire risks are considered as part of the overall health and safety planning for construction projects. Principal contractors must ensure arrangements are in place to manage fire risks throughout the project.

Who is Responsible for the Fire Risk Assessment?

On construction sites, responsibility typically falls to:

• Principal contractor – overall responsibility for fire safety on the construction site
• Individual contractors – responsible for fire risks created by their specific activities
• Site manager – day-to-day implementation of fire safety measures

For smaller projects without a principal contractor, the contractor in control of the site holds responsibility.

Common Fire Hazards on Construction Sites

Construction sites face specific fire risks that must be addressed in your assessment:

Hot Work Operations

Welding, cutting, grinding, and other hot work are among the leading causes of construction site fires. Sparks can travel significant distances and ignite combustible materials hours after work has finished.

Temporary Electrical Installations

Overloaded circuits, damaged cables, and improper connections in temporary electrical systems create ignition risks. Equipment used outdoors may not be suitable for the conditions.

Flammable Materials Storage

Paints, solvents, adhesives, timber, insulation materials, and packaging all present fuel sources. Improper storage or accumulation of waste increases risk significantly.

LPG and Gas Cylinders

Gas cylinders used for heating, cooking in welfare facilities, and powering equipment must be stored and used correctly. Leaks and improper handling create explosion risks.

Arson

Construction sites are often targeted for deliberate fire-setting, particularly during evenings and weekends. Inadequate security increases this risk.

Step-by-Step Fire Risk Assessment Process

Step 1: Identify Fire Hazards

Walk the site and identify all potential sources of ignition and fuel. Consider:

• Where is hot work being carried out?
• What electrical equipment is in use?
• Where are flammable materials stored?
• How is waste being managed?
• What heating equipment is used?

Step 2: Identify People at Risk

Determine who could be harmed if a fire occurred:

• Construction workers on site
• Visitors, clients, and delivery drivers
• Workers in isolated areas or at height
• Occupants of adjacent buildings
• Members of the public near the site

Step 3: Evaluate Risks and Implement Controls

For each hazard identified, assess the likelihood and severity of a fire occurring, then implement appropriate control measures:

• Hot work permits and fire watches
• Proper storage for flammable materials
• Regular electrical inspections
• Good housekeeping and waste management
• Site security to prevent arson

Step 4: Plan Emergency Procedures

Establish clear emergency arrangements:

• Fire alarm system (temporary installation)
• Escape routes that remain clear as work progresses
• Assembly point location
• Fire extinguisher placement
• Roll call procedures

Step 5: Record, Review, and Update

Document your findings and review the assessment:

• When work phases change significantly
• After any fire incidents or near misses
• When new contractors or activities are introduced
• At least weekly on active construction sites

Essential Control Measures for Construction Sites

Your fire risk assessment should address these key control measures:

Hot Work Controls

• Written hot work permit system
• Fire watch during and after hot work (minimum 60 minutes)
• Fire extinguisher within 5 metres
• Combustible materials cleared from area
• Fire blankets or screens where appropriate

Electrical Safety

• Competent person to install temporary supplies
• Regular PAT testing of portable equipment
• No overloading of circuits
• Damaged cables taken out of service immediately

Materials Storage

• Flammable liquids in proper containers and storage
• LPG cylinders stored outdoors, away from ignition sources
• Combustible materials kept to minimum on site
• Regular removal of packaging and waste

Security Measures

• Perimeter fencing to prevent unauthorised access
• Security patrols or CCTV out of hours
• Secure storage for high-value flammable materials
• Lighting to deter intruders

Fire Detection and Warning on Construction Sites

Permanent fire detection systems may not be installed or commissioned during construction. Your assessment should consider temporary arrangements:

• Portable fire alarm systems – battery-powered units suitable for construction environments
• Air horns or manual alarms – simple but effective for smaller sites
• Radio communication – for rapid alerting across large sites

The alarm must be audible throughout all working areas, including noisy environments where hearing protection is worn.

Means of Escape Considerations

Escape routes on construction sites change as work progresses. Your assessment must ensure:

• Clear, unobstructed routes at all times
• Multiple escape routes where possible
• Safe escape from height (scaffolding, upper floors)
• Adequate signage updated as routes change
• Emergency lighting if work continues in low light

Training Requirements

All workers on site should receive fire safety induction covering:

• Location of fire extinguishers and how to use them
• Current escape routes and assembly point
• Fire alarm sound and what to do when it activates
• Reporting fire hazards
• Hot work permit requirements

Induction must be updated when significant changes occur on site.

When to Review Your Fire Risk Assessment

Construction sites change constantly. Review your fire risk assessment:

• Weekly minimum – to capture ongoing changes
• When new phases begin – demolition to groundworks to structure etc.
• After incidents – fires, near misses, or enforcement action
• When new contractors arrive – bringing new activities and hazards
• If fire service provides feedback – following inspections or consultation

Documentation Requirements

Your fire risk assessment must be recorded in writing and include:

1. Date of assessment and assessor details
2. Fire hazards identified
3. People at risk
4. Control measures in place
5. Additional actions required
6. Emergency arrangements
7. Review date

Keep the assessment available on site for inspection by the fire service or HSE.

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