Inspection checklist

Fire safety inspection checklist for construction sites (England)

A fire safety inspection checklist for construction sites in England, covering risk assessment, escape routes, equipment, storage, hot works, and personnel knowledge.

Fill it in online - free, no account needed. 32 questions.

What it is for

This template helps you conduct a thorough fire safety inspection on a construction site.

The full question list

1. Site Information and Fire Risk Assessment

  1. Site name and location *
  2. Name of person completing this inspection *
  3. Date and time of inspection *
  4. A current fire risk assessment is available on site. *
  5. Date of the last fire risk assessment review *
  6. The fire risk assessment covers all current site activities and hazards. *

2. Emergency Routes and Signage

  1. All escape routes are clearly marked and unobstructed. *
  2. Emergency exit signs are visible and illuminated where necessary. *
  3. Number of accessible fire assembly points observed *
  4. Assembly points are clearly signed and kept clear of obstructions. *

3. Fire Fighting Equipment and Alarms

  1. Fire points are clearly identified and accessible. *
  2. Number of fire extinguishers observed at fire points *
  3. Fire extinguishers are of the correct type for the potential hazards in their area. *
  4. All fire extinguishers have a valid service tag. *
  5. The fire alarm system is operational and audible throughout the site. *
  6. Date of the last fire alarm system test *

4. Storage of Flammables and Waste

  1. Flammable liquids are stored in appropriate, labelled containers. *
  2. Flammable materials are stored away from ignition sources. *
  3. Waste materials are regularly removed and stored in designated areas. *
  4. Waste skips are located a safe distance from buildings and structures. *

5. Hot Works Control

  1. A hot works permit system is in place for relevant activities. *
  2. Fire watch is maintained during and after hot works as per permit requirements. *
  3. Appropriate fire extinguishing equipment is immediately available at hot work locations. *

6. People's Knowledge and Drills

  1. Site personnel interviewed know the location of the nearest fire point. *
  2. Site personnel interviewed know the nearest escape route and assembly point. *
  3. Site personnel interviewed know how to raise the fire alarm. *
  4. Date of the last recorded fire evacuation drill. *
  5. Records of fire safety training for site personnel are available. *

7. Follow-up and Sign-off

  1. Any immediate actions taken during the inspection
  2. Name of person completing this inspection (print) *
  3. Date of sign-off *
  4. Signature of inspector *

References

How the score works

The score is the share of scored questions that pass. N/A is left out of the score; text, dates and signatures are recorded but not scored. A completed template is a record of what you checked; it is not an inspection by a regulator or an accreditation body.

Questions

Who is responsible for fire safety on a construction site?

The 'responsible person' under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, typically the employer or person in control of the premises, is responsible for fire safety. On construction sites, this often falls to the principal contractor.

How often should a fire safety inspection be conducted?

The frequency of inspections should be determined by the fire risk assessment, considering the site's complexity, hazards, and stage of construction. Regular inspections are crucial to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.