The Joint Code of Practice for Fire Prevention on Construction Sites was first published in 1992 with the objective of preventing fires on construction sites. Now in its 10th edition, the code has been revised and re-issued to ensure it continues to address not only long-standing risks such as hot work, but also reflects changes in standards, practice and the more prevalent use of modern materials and construction methods.
Excerpt from the Code of Practice:
“Every year there are numerous major fires on construction sites and in buildings undergoing refurbishment. All have serious consequences: people are killed and injured; buildings, including those of historic interest, are destroyed. Plant and equipment is damaged, work is held up and completion dates are not met.
The objective of this Code is the prevention of fires on construction sites. The majority of fires can be prevented by designing out risks, taking simple precautions, and by adopting safe working practices. All parties involved must work together to ensure that adequate detection and prevention measures are incorporated during design and contract planning stages; and that the work on site is undertaken to the highest standard of fire safety, thereby affording the maximum level of protection to the Building and its occupants.”