Construction Phase Fire Risk Assessments: Why They Matter

Construction sites are among the highest-risk environments for fire. The combination of hot works, temporary electrical installations, combustible materials, incomplete fire protection systems, and changing site conditions creates a dynamic risk profile that requires active management.

A construction phase fire risk assessment is a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. It must be carried out by a competent person and kept under regular review as the site evolves. Unlike assessments for occupied buildings, construction phase FRAs must account for the progressive nature of the build, the changing workforce, and the temporary nature of fire safety measures.

Key areas covered in a construction phase FRA include site layout and access, storage of combustible materials, hot works procedures and permits, temporary fire detection and alarm arrangements, means of escape from the site, fire-fighting equipment provision, emergency procedures and assembly points, and coordination with other contractors.

Paul Williams, Director and Head of Fire Risk Assessments at JJM Fire Consultants Ltd, leads our construction phase FRA service. As an Approved Engineer (Fire), Paul brings specialist fire engineering expertise to the assessment of construction site fire risk, ensuring that risks are identified, evaluated, and managed throughout the build programme.