According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) report “Fires in Structures Under Construction,” statistical data from 2017 to 2021 indicate that fire incidents have been increasing.
Who is responsible for the fire prevention strategy?
Ultimately, the owner is responsible for their construction site. However, NFPA 241 states that the owner should designate a fire protection consultant for implementing and managing the fire prevention strategy during times when the building is undergoing alterations, construction, or is being demolished.
That fire protection consultant will be charged with:
- Ensuring fire safety measures are being overseen.
- Conducting regular inspections.
Ensuring compliance with NFPA 241 throughout the construction process. What Fire Protection Consultants Do
The fire protection consultant can identify and reduce risks by establishing provisions that are compliant with NFPA 241. Construction sites are a hub of ever-changing activities and risks, often featuring combustible materials storage and activities such as hot works, cutting, and temporary electrical works that increase the likelihood of ignition. Layouts, storage locations, and types of materials change on a daily basis, leading to challenges tracking and preventing incidents.
Increased risks require a strong fire prevention strategy throughout each stage of construction. An effective fire strategy during construction protects construction workers, reduces the risk of fire damage, and ensures compliance with local and state codes. Construction schedules also remain on time by reducing the chance of incident-related shutdowns.
Developing a Strong Fire Protection Strategy
A fire prevention strategy should be developed in accordance with “NFPA 241, 2022 – Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations”. NFPA 241 will play a key role in reducing incidents on your construction site, forming a comprehensive framework for identifying hazards, strategizing measures of prevention, and establishing procedures for responding to emergencies, should they occur.
What else does NFPA 241 Require?
An overall project specific fire prevention program is required by NFPA 241. The fire prevention program is a bespoke “site-specific” plan designed to identify, control and reduce risks throughout the project. It’s important to establish the program prior to the project starting and maintain it until all work is complete. Items to look out for include the following:
- Procedures for identifying and controlling ignition sources, i.e., welding, cutting, and heating equipment
- Understanding what combustible items are being stored on site and how they are being handled
- General everyday housekeeping
- Site security
- Installation and maintenance of temporary fire protection systems like fire extinguishers, standpipes, and fire alarm systems
- Emergency planning measures, including fire department access, evacuation procedures, and solid communication methods to relay incidents to the fire department
Why is NFPA 241 Important?
NFPA 241’s true value lies in its ability to reduce risk and improve fire safety outcomes. A successfully written and well managed plan will play a significant role in addressing the unique fire risks associated with construction, alteration, and demolition operations.
Telgian Engineering & Consulting will develop your fire prevention strategy and even act as the responsible person. We work closely with all key stakeholders onsite and offsite, including the local fire department and fire marshal. Telgian will ensure that all necessary measures are implemented to develop a seamless, integrated fire prevention strategy tailored to your construction site. Our approach is focused on mitigating fire risks while supporting the uninterrupted progression of your construction schedule.
Eddie Farrow
With more than 19 years of experience in fire protection and life safety consulting and design, Eddie Farrow serves as Regional Practice Leader, Fire Protection Engineering for the Southeast Region at Telgian Engineering & Consulting, LLC (TEC). He has led projects worldwide across a variety of occupancies, including healthcare, industrial, and mercantile facilities, with a particular focus on high-rise residential and commercial buildings.