Fire Precautions During Construction of Large Buildings

The role of this document is to provide information to help the broad range of people and organisations with responsibilities for fire safety on a construction site to reduce the risk of fire.

The information applies to the design and planning stages as well as the actual construction phase, and many hazards can be addressed by good design and planning before they become an issue.

Construction projects can include demolition, alterations, renovations, repair and maintenance as well as new buildings.

Much of the content of this guide can be incorporated in:

• Design documentation (including design reports)

• Building permits

• The Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) Plan for the site, which may refer to a separate Fire Safety Plan

• Safe work methods; and • hot work permit systems. It is critical that all parties involved in a project work together to ensure that the fire risk is minimised and that everyone on a construction site is aware of their responsibilities

This guide does not apply to the completed structure. Minimum community building standards for fire safety in completed buildings are mandated by State and Territory Acts and Regulations that normally require compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC), among other things. WHS legislation may require additional fire precautions to be implemented, such as evacuation plans and emergency procedures.

Any recommendations in this guide do not negate the need to comply with all relevant legislation and contractual requirements.

More infotrmation

For more resources please visit the Fire prevention and minimisation page

Printed copies

Hard copies of most WoodSolutions design guides are available for purchase from SAI Global