Focus on Keeping Your Jobsite Fire Free with Resources from NAHB

Fire Prevention Week, an annual public outreach and awareness campaign from the National Fire Protection Association, will be observed Oct. 6-12. It’s a perfect time for home builders to assess their jobsite fire plans with the hazardous winter season approaching. While many associate the hot, dry summers with fire danger, for home builders and remodelers working on home interiors, winter can be a dangerous time. Many workers keep warm with space heaters and other devices, so extra care must be taken when using this equipment. NAHB has valuable resources to help builders keep residential construction sites as fire-resistant as possible, beginning with housekeeping and basic tips:

• Keep the worksite clear of extraneous items and clean up spills immediately
• Be aware of fuel and ignition sources on the jobsite and ensure proper placement and storage
• Ensure rooms have proper ventilation before spraying paint and other solvents
• Ensure temporary heaters are being properly used
• Know and communicate your company’s fire protection plan
• Keep fire extinguishers in easy reach and make sure workers are trained to use the PASS method:
  • Pull the pin
  • Aim at the base of the fire
  • Squeeze the lever
  • Sweep side to side

For more on home building site fire safety, watch the NAHB Toolbox Talk below. OSHA also has a resource page on fire safety that includes standards and solutions to potential fire hazards on work sites. Take next week as an opportunity to stop and really think about fire safety on your jobsites. Is everyone aware of the escape plan? When was the last time fire extinguishers were checked? Is housekeeping a daily task? You’re probably already covered, but stop and think about it or ask the questions to make sure. [bc_video video_id="5542851083001" account_id="260701690001" player_id="BJMWPKF2" embed="in-page" padding_top="56%" autoplay="" min_width="0px" max_width="600px" mute="" width="100%" height="100%" ]   For more information and to view other Video Toolbox Talks, please visit nahb.org/toolboxtalks. Each is available in English and Spanish versions. For more information on home building safety, contact Rob Matuga at 202-266-8507.