Risk is often seen as an unavoidable element of construction projects. While that’s true to some degree, there are many ways to minimize risk and protect the success of the project. First and foremost, comprehensive builders risk insurance is absolutely essential because, as we just mentioned, sometimes things go wrong even when you’ve done everything right.
However, in addition to your insurance coverage, there are important steps you should be taking to minimize the #1 builders risk exposure: fire.
Fire Risk and Safety Precautions for Construction Sites
The risk of major fire damage is higher for buildings that are under construction than for those that are completed. It’s partially because of construction activities and partially because the structure doesn’t yet have permanent sprinkler systems. Here are some important guidelines to consider for lowering your risk of fires.
- Fire Extinguishers & Suppression Systems. While you may not have permanent sprinkler systems, there are many temporary options. Consider the best options for your project early on. At the minimum, ensure fire extinguishers are readily accessible throughout the site.
- Hot Work Policies. Welding, cutting, and grinding increases fire risks, so every employee or subcontractor who performs any of these jobs must be committed to putting safety first. Develop and enforce strict safety policies and protocols based on the NFPA 241 Standard.
- Smoking Policies. It may seem ridiculously simple but prohibiting smoking on the construction site drastically reduces your builders risk exposures. In addition to making a no-smoking policy and placing no-smoking signs throughout the property, be sure you instruct employees and subcontractors on where they should go if they want to have a cigarette. Otherwise, you’ll likely find people “sneaking a smoke” in places they shouldn’t be.
- Heating Equipment Procedures. If you’re working in a cold location, it’s common to have temporary heating equipment to protect your team from the elements. Stress the importance of using caution with these heaters – making sure everyone understands how to minimize fire risks by minding the unit’s intended uses, placing it on non-combustible flooring, and maintaining a clear perimeter.
- Electrical Wiring Installation. Temporary electrical wiring can absolutely be installed safely – but it’s often thrown together by those with no electrical training. The latter practice should be banned on your project. Instead, require all electrical wiring to be installed in accordance with NFPA 70 National Electric Code®, and have it inspected regularly by a qualified electrician.
Construction projects that are well-managed, have strict policies, and maintain good housekeeping will have lower risk of fire. That’s important for your project’s success and the safety of everyone involved – and it could also help to lower the cost of your builders risk insurance.
Continue the Discussion About How to Minimize Your Builders Risk Exposures
At Swarts, Manning & Associates, we provide a unique perspective on all of your commercial coverage options, and we help to determine which carrier best fits your business needs. We strive to find you the broadest coverage at the best available rate. Give us a call to get started: (833) 878-2820.
Each week, Swarts, Manning & Associates covers relevant topics for your business. Stay tuned to hear more discussions about managing your insurance and industry-specific tips.
