Use Fire Prevention Week to Review Your Housekeeping and Storage Practices

This week is National Fire Prevention Week, an annual public outreach and awareness campaign by the National Fire Protection Association. Although mostly geared toward home owners and fire prevention in the home, home builders can use the week to review their jobsite fire safety practices.

NAHB has 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.
• Keep fire extinguishers in easy reach, and make sure workers are trained to use them.
• Know and communicate your company’s fire protection plan.

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 this week as an opportunity to stop and 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, and ask the questions to make sure.

For more information and to view other Video Toolbox Talks, please visit nahb.org/toolboxtalks. Each is available in English and Spanish versions.