FIR/General/TBT-FIR-033
Electrical Fire Prevention on Site
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Toolbox Talk
Electrical Fire Prevention on Site
Electrical faults are a leading cause of construction site fires. Damaged cables, overloaded circuits, poor connections, and defective equipment can generate heat sufficient to ignite combustible materials nearby. Temporary electrical installations are particularly vulnerable because they are exposed to harsh site conditions. This talk explains the electrical fire risks on site and the controls that prevent them.
Key Hazards
Cable fires from damaged insulation causing short circuits and overheating
Overloaded distribution boards generating heat and igniting enclosure materials
Arcing at loose or corroded connections starting fires in concealed areas
Portable heaters left unattended near combustible materials in site cabins
Control Measures
- Inspect all temporary cables and connections regularly for damage, overheating, and loose terminations.
- Ensure distribution boards are not overloaded beyond their rated capacity at any time.
- Route cables away from heat sources, sharp edges, and areas of vehicle or foot traffic.
- Use only PAT-tested and properly maintained portable electrical equipment on the construction site.
- Switch off and unplug all non-essential electrical equipment at the end of every working shift.
- Keep portable heaters at least one metre from combustible materials and never leave them unattended.
- Report any burning smell, flickering lights, or warm cables to the site electrician immediately.
- Ensure all electrical work is carried out by competent electricians and inspected before use.
- Provide CO2 or dry powder fire extinguishers at all temporary distribution board locations.
Remember
- Inspect temporary cables and connections regularly for damage, overheating, and loose terminations
- Distribution boards must never be overloaded beyond their rated capacity under any circumstances
- Switch off and unplug all non-essential electrical equipment at the end of every working shift
- Keep portable heaters at least one metre from combustibles and never leave them unattended
- Report any burning smell, flickering lights, or warm cables to the site electrician immediately
- CO2 or dry powder fire extinguishers must be positioned at all temporary distribution boards
Applicable Legislation: Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 · Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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