In any workplace, the risk of a fire disaster is always present. Even a small electrical problem, such as a short circuit, can swiftly engulf an entire building in flames, resulting in substantial losses. One such workplace at risk of fire is a construction site. While builders primarily concentrate on preventing slips, trips, and falls, they often overlook the importance of fire prevention.
Surprisingly, fire incidents during construction are quite common, with around 4,440 fires reported annually to local fire departments. This alarming statistic emphasizes the need for builders and their teams to improve fire safety on-site by getting online fire protection classes.
Common Causes of Fires in Construction Site
Construction fires can ignite from various sources, ranging from natural causes like lightning strikes to deliberate acts like arson. One prevalent hazard on construction sites arises from worn-out extension cords, known for sparking fires that quickly spread due to flammable materials present.
Renovation projects involving older structures further increase this risk, often due to outdated building codes and materials. For instance, inadequate firewalls between floors and gaps around plumbing and electrical systems are common deficits in older buildings. With them, the fire can spread rapidly from one core to another.
Why Construction Site Workers Get Online Fire Protection Classes
1. Prevent Financial Loss
“Prevention is better than cure,” fits perfectly well in the context of fire incidents on construction sites. When a fire breaks out, it can cause a lot of damage to materials, equipment, and the building itself. This means money goes down the drain to fix or replace everything that’s been destroyed. One way to cut down on this financial loss is by training your employees under professional supervision. They will have clear plans for what to do in case of a fire.
2. Identifying Fire Hazards
One of the basic lessons taught in online fire protection classes is how to identify potential fire hazards on construction sites. This includes recognizing flammable materials, faulty electrical wiring, improper storage of chemicals, and unsafe practices like smoking in restricted areas. By understanding these risks, your team can take proactive measures to eliminate or minimize them. This reduces the chance of a fire breaking in the first place.
3. Proper Handling of Fire Extinguishers
Professional trainers also teach the proper usage of fire extinguishers, an invaluable tool during the initial stages of a fire. Builders and their workers learn about different types of extinguishers and the appropriate extinguishing agents for various classes of fires. They also receive hands-on training on how to operate extinguishers effectively. This ensures they can respond rapidly if a fire erupts.
4. Emergency Evacuation Procedures
In the case of a fire, quick and orderly evacuation is vital for saving lives. Online fire protection classes emphasize the importance of having clear evacuation plans and designated assembly points. Participants learn how to raise alarms, assist others in evacuating safely, and steer exit routes efficiently. This knowledge can make a big difference in minimizing injuries and ensuring everyone gets out of harm’s way swiftly.
5. Recognizing Fire Behaviour
Knowing how fires behave is fundamental in effectively combating them. The online fire protection classes educate builders on how fires spread, the elements that spread them on site, and how to contain them. This knowledge empowers builders and workers to make informed decisions during a fire emergency, potentially preventing the situation from worsening. In this, they will learn about the following:
· Solid materials such as wood or paper, fabric, and some plastic.
· liquids and gases such as alcohol, ether, gasoline, and grease.
· Electrical failure from appliances, electronic equipment, and wiring.
· Metals like sodium, titanium, zirconium, and magnesium.
6. Legal Compliance and Professional Development
Aside from the life-saving aspects, taking fire protection classes is often a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. Construction companies and professionals are mandated to adhere to specific safety standards and regulations.
For example, OSHA states that employers should educate employees about fire hazards in the workplace and what to do in the event of a fire. Completion of these courses not only ensures compliance but also enhances professional credibility and opens doors to more opportunities within the construction industry.
Wrap Up
Buildings under construction are commonly more vulnerable to fire. Workers may have volatile substances on-site, and the heavy wind is present around unfinished buildings, which quickly causes a blaze to spread. To prevent fire from happening, the builders should get online fire protection classes. If you’d like to learn more about fire safety and how to prevent or contain fires on a construction site, please get in touch with TRINITI Fire Life & Safety via our contact form.
