Refurbishment or building work in an occupied premises is a time of higher fire risk. Escape routes move, detectors are covered, contractors bring tools and materials, and everyone is slightly distracted.
What changes during building work
- Escape routes may be blocked or diverted.
- Fire doors may be removed or propped open.
- Detectors may be covered to prevent false alarms from dust.
- Walls and ceilings may be opened up, affecting compartmentation.
- Waste, packaging and flammable materials build up.
- Hot work such as welding or cutting may take place.
Before work starts
- Review your fire risk assessment. Ask what the work will change and who will be affected.
- Agree a plan with the contractor. Cover escape routes, alarms, waste, storage and hot work.
- Brief everyone. Staff, residents, visitors and the contractor’s team should know the arrangements.
- Decide who is responsible for daily checks on site.
While work is under way
- Keep escape routes clear and well signed. If one must change, tell people and update signs.
- Do not leave detectors disabled longer than needed, and cover them only with agreement. Uncover them at the end of each work period where possible.
- Control hot work with a permit system. See our guide on hot work permits.
- Manage waste daily. Remove it from the building and away from walls.
- Keep fire doors working. Never wedge them open.
- Check extinguishers are available near the work area.
- Do a daily walk-round at the start and end of each shift.
After work finishes
Check that every detector is uncovered and working, fire doors close properly, gaps in walls or ceilings are properly sealed, and signage is correct. Review your fire risk assessment and update your records.
Your duties
The Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003 and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 expect those in control of premises and employers to manage fire risk, including during changes to a building.
How we can help
Planning a refurbishment? A fire risk assessment can be reviewed before and after the work. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie to talk it through. See our fire risk assessments in Ireland page.