Recent research commissioned by Phoenix Health & Safety has unveiled a concerning lack of fire safety awareness among construction workers in the UK.
According to the study, which surveyed 1,500 individuals nationwide, a staggering 51% of construction workers admitted they would not know how to respond in the event of a fire at work.
These stats prove the need for improved fire safety education within the construction industry, where the risks associated with fire hazards are significant. Each year, approximately 22,000 workplace fires occur across the UK, emphasising the importance of having comprehensive fire safety knowledge and protocols in place.
Nick Higginson, CEO of Phoenix Health & Safety, highlighted the critical nature of this issue, stating, “For fire safety to be most effective in a workplace, it’s key that individuals at every level of the organisation understand the procedures in full. Without a well-rehearsed fire safety procedure, there can be delays to taking appropriate and immediate action.”
The study further revealed numerous alarming statistics:
- Lack of Fire Drill Participation: Only about 6% of construction workers reported having participated in a fire safety drill within the past year. This is despite government regulations mandating at least one fire drill annually, with non-compliance potentially resulting in fines.
- Inability to Locate Fire Assembly Points: A significant 66% of construction workers would not be able to locate their fire safety assembly point, a fundamental aspect of any emergency evacuation plan.
- Unawareness of Fire Officers: Just over a quarter of construction workers could identify the fire officers in their workplace, highlighting a significant gap in basic fire safety knowledge.
Higginson emphasised the importance of regular training and clear communication of fire safety protocols, particularly for new staff. “Not knowing the location of the fire assembly point is just one example of why having a clear and well-rehearsed procedure is so important. All new staff should be made aware of the location of the assembly point and any fire exits, and should be reminded periodically through training to refresh their memory of fire safety.”
The study also tested workers’ knowledge of fire extinguisher usage, with concerning results:
- Misidentification of Extinguishers: Over 82% of respondents failed to correctly identify that the black CO2 extinguisher is not safe to use on fires involving combustible materials such as paper and wood.
- Incorrect Use on Electrical Fires: More than three-quarters (78%) of respondents did not know that ‘black, blue or green’ extinguishers should be used for fires caused by electrical faults.
Nick also stressed that understanding the correct use of fire extinguishers can make a significant difference in emergency situations. “In most workplaces, the fire extinguishers available should have signage that shows the extinguisher type and what sort of fire it can be used on. Whilst you may want to react quickly, taking a few seconds longer to identify the correct fire extinguisher could potentially be lifesaving.”
Ultimately, the responsibility for fire safety lies within a business and its employees. Employers must ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and foster a culture of safety, while employees must remain vigilant and adhere to these protocols.
For managers and supervisors looking to improve their fire safety knowledge, Higginson recommends obtaining relevant accreditation, such as the NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety. This training can equip individuals with the necessary skills to manage fire hazards effectively, ultimately contributing to a safer workplace for all. The findings of this study are a stark reminder of the critical need for ongoing fire safety education and training in the construction industry. By addressing these gaps, businesses can help ensure the safety and well-being of their workers, reducing the risk of fire-related incidents and enhancing overall workplace safety
