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Construction Fire Safety: Lessons from the Erin Glen Incident and Best Practices for Prevention

Writer's picture: Tim SpearsTim Spears


On September 27, 2024, a suspicious fire at the Erin Glen subdivision in Erin, Ontario, caused millions of dollars in damage. The incident led to the destruction of eight homes under construction, and several units had to be demolished for safety reasons. Fortunately, the homes were unoccupied, and no injuries were reported, but the damage emphasizes the critical need for construction fire safety measures. Erin’s interim fire chief, Scott Bates, confirmed that the fires were deemed suspicious, and investigations are ongoing (Kozolanka, 2024).


As part of the ongoing investigation, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are trying to identify two vehicles believed to be involved in the arson. These vehicles—a black 2023 Honda CRV EX-L and a grey Land Rover—were spotted in the vicinity of the Erin Glen subdivision during the early morning hours of September 27. The OPP has urged residents in the area to review any surveillance footage they may have between 11 p.m. on September 26 and 1 a.m. on September 27 (Knox, 2024). This investigation highlights the importance of site security during the construction phase, as unsecured construction sites are often vulnerable to trespassing, vandalism, and arson.


Fire safety during construction is important for protecting the building under construction, as well as the lives of workers, surrounding property, and first responders. Fires at construction sites can result in severe losses.


What Is Construction Fire Safety and Why Is It Important?


Construction fire safety involves all measures taken to prevent fire incidents on construction sites. During construction, various factors contribute to heightened fire risks, including incomplete fire protection features, unsecured sites, and numerous ignition sources such as heaters, welding, and other hot work. Managing fire safety during these stages is complex but essential to prevent incidents like the one in Erin.


Key elements of fire safety during construction include:


  • Fire Safety Plan: Every construction project should have a fire safety plan detailing emergency protocols and preventive measures.

  • Site Security: Unsecured sites are more vulnerable to vandalism, theft, and arson. Security measures must be taken seriously around the clock. This includes installing proper fencing, using security cameras, and employing on-site security personnel to deter unauthorized access.

  • Hot Work Management: Activities like welding, cutting, and grinding are common causes of construction fires. A hot work permit system should be used to ensure safety procedures are followed.


Key Fire Hazards on Construction Sites


Understanding fire hazards on construction sites helps in mitigating risks effectively. The leading causes of fires in structures under construction include:


  1. Cooking and Heating Equipment: Improper use of cooking or heating devices can ignite combustible materials.

  2. Electrical Distribution and Lighting: Electrical faults are common ignition sources on construction sites.

  3. Hot Work Operations: Welding, soldering, and other heat-generating activities require strict safety protocols (Construction Safety Fact Sheet, 2022).

  4. Incendiary Fires: Fires intentionally set by individuals represent a significant risk. Construction sites are often targeted due to their vulnerability, lack of security, and availability of combustible materials. Ensuring site security and surveillance can help deter such criminal activities.


To manage these risks, compliance with standards like NFPA 241 is critical. This standard provides comprehensive guidelines on safeguarding construction, alteration, and demolition operations to minimize fire risks. Following NFPA 241 helps construction teams adopt practices that can be overlooked and important for preventing catastrophic events.


Best Practices for Construction Fire Safety with a Focus on Site Security


Here are some best practices based on NFPA 241 and other safety guidelines to help improve fire safety on construction sites, with an emphasis on site security:


  • Enhance Site Security: Implement measures like installing security fences, gates, and access control systems to prevent unauthorized entry. Security cameras should be strategically placed around the site, and sufficient lighting should be used to deter trespassers. Employing on-site security guards during and after working hours can significantly reduce the risk of vandalism or arson.

  • Install Temporary Fire Protection: Implement temporary fire safety systems like portable fire extinguishers and standpipes before the permanent systems are in place.

  • Hot Work Permits: Establish a hot work permit system to monitor activities like welding and ensure that they are performed under safe conditions.

  • Good Housekeeping: Keep combustible materials at a safe distance from ignition sources, and ensure the site is clean from construction debris that could fuel a fire.

  • Surveillance and Monitoring: Use security personnel, cameras, and alarm systems to monitor the site continuously. Regular patrols and surveillance can help detect suspicious activities before they escalate.


The recent fire incident in Erin underscores the importance of stringent fire safety and site security measures on construction sites. Fires on construction sites are almost always preventable, and adhering to fire safety standards like NFPA 241, combined with robust security measures, can significantly reduce the risk of fire, protect workers, and prevent financial losses. As industry professionals, ensuring that fire safety and security remain a priority during every stage of construction is our collective responsibility.


References


Kozolanka, K. (2024). 'Millions' in damage as eight homes under construction torched in Erin. EloraFergusToday. https://www.elorafergustoday.com/local-news/millions-in-damage-as-eight-homes-under-construction-torched-in-erin-9592489


Knox, S. (2024). OPP trying to identify two vehicles as part of Erin arson investigation. CTV News. https://kitchener.ctvnews.ca/opp-trying-to-identify-two-vehicles-as-part-of-erin-arson-investigation-1.7060788


Construction Safety Fact Sheet. (2022). NFPA 241: Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations. https://www.nfpa.org/constructionfires

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